NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates House Capital Outlay Request 53

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Tourism Department

Office of Cultural Affairs

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Bill 722 appropriates $442.0 from the general fund to the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission for the purpose of improving the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. The appropriation is contingent upon an equal contribution from the state of Colorado.

Significant Issues

The Office of Cultural Affairs provides the following historical perspective on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad:

In 1880, the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad built a narrow-gauge stretch of rail, known as the San Juan Extension, to serve the mines of southwestern Colorado. Currently, the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad operates 64 miles of that narrow-gauge system, running between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado. Its restored rolling stock constitutes America's longest and highest-running steam railroad - a "living museum" of railway history.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $442.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2002 shall revert to the general fund.

DUPLICATION

House Bill 722 duplicates House Capital Outlay Request 53, which requests $442.0 for capital improvements including locomotive boiler work and track improvements.

MW/njw