A payloader with hi-rails is making its way from Dresser to Withrow Junction cleaning off the right of way for rail traffic. Most of the rails are still under a foot of snow. No snow plow for this branch line.... The MOW was parked in Marine on St. Croix tonight.

sweet. keep us posted I really want to chase a load back to the cities this summer.

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A BNSF fan by default.

The CN bridge inspector rode up with the MNTX power move to Osceola. The bridge looked good, so traffic was allowed to start running. I know there have already been a couple of trap rock trains up to Dresser.

2015 Update. The local newspaper (www.countrymessenger.com) reports work being done on the St. Croix River Bridge which has delayed the opening for a couple of weeks. Currently there is a red sign at Withrow prohibiting traffic to Dresser. The article projected work would be done by April 14th.

Any idea what there doing to it? it's such a cool old bridge, would be a shame if it ever got replaced.

_________________
A BNSF fan by default.

Canadian National is doing tie work on the bridge and concrete pier structures. The article indicated workers should be able to clear the track at night and stop work on weekends, leaving the bridge open for use. As of yesterday, the line was still embargoed.

As of 4/26/15, the line is open!