All Aboard!
- Susan Heavilin
- Jun 3
- 2 min read
Have you ever wondered about the train in Rohr Park? How it came to be?
In January of 1974, a group of people interested in building and operating scale models of live steam machinery got together. They called themselves Chula Vista Live Steamers (CVLS) and they've been around for fifty-one years!
"Our club exists for the purpose of providing our members and the public a way to recreate railroads of past and present, serving as educational entertainment for both kids and adults alike." —Chula Vista Live Steamers website
I read that in January of 2024, a storm and flood destroyed about 4,000 feet of track. The Chula Vista Live Steamers are trying to raise money to repair the remaining 2,000 feet of washed-away track.
A Go Fund Me page has been established by David Belleperche to go towards cleanup and repair costs.
"Hi, we are Chula Vista Live Steamers and we are raising money for the damage to our railroad that happened 1/22/24. Approximately 4,000 feet of track was destroyed. We are a 100% volunteer based organization and any funds will all go back into the railroad. We do not use one cent for ourselves. The railroad serves Rohr Park in Bonita, CA and we give rides to about 700 people a month."—David Belleperche
They have raised $4,748 raised of their $30K goal. They are a little more than $25,000 short of what they need.
I went to the donation site with the full intention of helping out. But once I typed in my donation, I was informed that Go Fund Me wanted $175 for a tip. So I immediately exited.
"Our main line has been repaired, and we are providing free public rides on second full weekend of each month (except September: Labor Day weekend). Public rides are offered free of charge to everyone. We operate on an honor system and kindly request a donation to support our mission. Your generous donations help us maintain and improve our track, provide and maintain trains, and ensure this program remains accessible to all. Every contribution makes a difference."
OK, I found another way to contribute to this worthy cause. Shoot this QR Code with your phone and you can make a donation with Venmo, PayPal or your Credit/Debit card.
The Chula Vista Live Steamers have been giving to the public for over fifty years. I'm sure that they have brought joy into the heart of many a child.
Please join me in paying back a little of that happiness. Let's get this train back on track!
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