Participate in one of the only US-based railroad restoration programs

The Colebrookdale Railroad, in Boyertown, Pennsylvania, USA, in partnership with Restoration Works, offers one of the only US-based opportunities to join a railroad restoration program. You’ll participate in hands-on restoration tasks, including painting and wood staining (train wheels, lamp posts, train interiors), landscape work, washing train interiors and exteriors. No special skills required – just a willingness to get a little dirty and have a lot of fun. It’s open to all ages (children aged 10-years-old and above; children must travel with a parent/guardian, please).

Project Overview

Located in southeast Pennsylvania, about a 1 ½-hour drive from Philadelphia, Colebrookdale Railroad opened in 1859, connecting the country’s first iron-making sites. Now the cornerstone of an ambitious plan to increase visitors to the region, it operates as an 8.6-mile tourist line as expansion work continues. The railroad’s rehabilitation as a heritage tourist railroad plays a major role in the region’s community and economic development plan, bringing visitor dollars, creating jobs and helping local businesses grow, while preserving a unique and important part of the local culture.

Discounts:

• Early Bird: 15% discount if you register before February 28, 2019 (cannot be combined with other discounts)
• Child under 18 sharing room with parent/guardian: $825
• RWI past participants/alumni: 5% discount
• Colebrookdale members: 5% discount
• Sharing room with a travel partner: $150 off

Notes:

• Accommodations are booked as single occupancy unless you are traveling with others and would like to share accommodation (both parties are eligible for a shared room discount)
• Children aged 10-17 are welcome (Children sharing a room with parent/guardian are charged $825)
• There is no ADA access
• Restoration Works International and the Colebrookdale Railroad Preservation Trust are registered 501(c)3 non-profit organizations. Tour fees are considered a tax deductible charitable donation for US tax filers. (Please consult your tax advisor.) Volunteer trip fees provide the funds by which we are able to purchase materials, fund programming and provide volunteer lodging, food and activities.
• Reservations are secured with a $300 deposit. The balance is due 60 days prior to the start of the trip. RWI will send an invoice as a reminder.

All participants are responsible for:

• Transportation to the site
• Proof of medical insurance
• A review of our Volunteer Information Pack, which you will receive upon payment of your deposit. It contains important information for pre-preparation, including a packing list and additional information about the site and area.
• Dinners (except the farewell dinner aboard the train), alcohol (except welcome drinks), and incidentals

Refund Policy:

• Deposits are refundable up to 60 days before Day 1 of the trip, less a $75 administration fee. Sorry, no refunds within 60 days of the tour, but please contact us, as we will help you to rebook another tour.