The Exploration Place, led by CEO Tracy Calogheros and Chief Facilities Officer John Calogheros, is asking the city council for financial support to improve the Little Prince train’s services. The historic train, running on a 2.2 km track, serves over 20,000 passengers yearly and has a history dating back to 1912.
Originally constructed for railway work, the Little Prince was revived in the 1920s and donated to the city in 1971. Since taking over in 2009, Exploration Place operated the train only on Thursdays last summer, generating a surplus. However, there’s a demand for more operating days (Thursdays to Sundays and Holiday Mondays), and current facilities do not meet safety standards.
To address these issues and satisfy visitor demand, the museum seeks a $100,000 annual commitment for three to five years. This funding will enable extended operating days and the construction of necessary facilities, such as a work shed and storage shed. The museum board emphasizes the need for the Little Prince train to be financially sustainable before committing to its ongoing operation.
