(The following story by John DeGroff appeared on the Albany Times-Union website on March 20.)
SYRACUSE, Ind. — Syracuse Town Council heard a presentation by Mark Baumgartner regarding the possible acquisition of the train depot by the town.
“We have a new contact, Adama Harris with CSX,” Baumgartner said. “She is in the real estate business for CSX, but they’re not looking to move any real estate at this time. When I told her we don’t want the land, just the building, that was kind of a catch for her. She said she’ll know more in two weeks.”
Baumgartner went on to say that donations totaling $1,235 have been received toward the train depot project. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers also have offered their support in acquiring the depot.
Baumgartner then introduced Todd Zeiger of the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana to the council.
“The Historic Landmarks Foundation is a not-for-profit advocacy organization,” Zeiger said. “We work with a variety of folks, working to save historic landmarks. We work with private individuals, towns, communities and other not-for-profits.
“One of the tools that we use is called the Indiana Preservation Grant fund. Over the last several months, I’ve been working with the committee here in town, and tonight I’d like to present a check to them and the town for $2,500. This is to help with the match for the community planning fund grant. I know that you’ve all talked about this, and the need is to have a local match for that grant. Getting the grant process moving forward is the first step in any project, whether it’s historic or otherwise.”
There are plans to develop a documentary on the depot project in conjunction with students from Ball State University. The finished film can be used for promotion and public service announcements, and as a fundraising tool. Some filming at the depot site has already taken place, and the finished project will be available by the end of April or early May.