May 17th, 2016 by WCBC Radio

The Cumberland Times News reports repair of a landslide that has kept Western Maryland Scenic Railroad excursions from reaching their Frostburg destination is expected to be completed by Aug. 1.

The landslide discovered during routine track inspection in late February was the result of a mine-related issue near a switch about two miles from Frostburg, said John Garner, the railroad's superintendent. Land below the railroad tracks slipped away at an estimated 2 to 4 feet.

Garner said the Maryland Bureau of Mines is in the process of removing debris and coal from the former mine site and improving the drainage system in the area to prevent future incidents. The repairs are being funded with federal money administered by the state bureau.

In the meantime, the railroad's 2016 season is offering tourist train rides between Cumberland and Switch No. 9.