September 8th, 2022 by WCBC Radio

The Cumberland Times News reports excursions on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad have been canceled through the weekend due to track damage from recent heavy rains. According to railroad officials, rain that fell this week caused softening of wooden railroad ties near WMSR's shop and rail yard in Ridgeley, West Virginia. Rides scheduled between Sept. 8 and 11 were canceled so crews could repair the damage. Wes Heinz, the railroad's CEO and general manager, said damage was confined to about 250 feet of ties. The scenic railroad's train yard is on the West Virginia side of the North Branch Potomac River. The damage prevents the train from crossing the river to the Western Maryland Railway Station in Cumberland where riders board for excursions. The damage happened at a bad time for the scenic railroad, with many activities planned for the Heritage Days Festival taking place in Cumberland this weekend. Heinz said he expects excursions to return for the railroad's next scheduled rides Sept. 15.