Canadian Railroad Historical Association - Esquimalt & Nanaimo Division

Coombs, British Columbia ~ Rail Siding & Museum Project


The E&N Division CRHA working with Aberni Pacific Railway and the Coombs Community are undertaking a museum rail project that will see a transformation of the Coombs landscape. Over the past year we have met with Alberni Pacific Railway and Regional District members, RDN Parks, including planning and museum societies. They share our vision of a rail interpreted museum that will include the use of our E&N Division historical rail equipment. This project will also promote the Alberni Pacific Railway's steam train operation and possibly a new home to the Coombs Museum.

Over the past two years, plans were drawn and presented to all the interested parties. Site work has started with clearing of over sixty years of vegetation growth. Several work parties are planned for the up coming months that will include grading, ballast, and the installation of a switch and track off the current Port Alberni Subdivision of the island's E&N Railway. This project is currently being supported by volunteers and companies providing heavy equipment.

The E&N Division, CRHA and EETG have worked tirelessly on a number of levels with planners, the community of Coombs, jointly with Alberni Pacific Railway (APR) in making this project come to life and receiving approval from the Island Corridor Foundation (ICF). Click Here to view project plans and official ICF approval.

We will keep you posted as to the progress! Here are some photos of this undertaking: