The City of Elgin has added a new attraction to Festival Park this season designed to provide children a nostalgic ride back to the golden age of train travel of the 19th century. The Elgin Express, an environmentally friendly, pollution-free electric train, ran for the first time on Memorial Day and will continue to be at the park on specified days throughout the summer. Powered by a silent 48-volt motor, this trackless train is comprised of a locomotive, coal car, two passenger cars and a caboose and will hold up to 24 children.
The cost for the train ride is $1.00 for children 15 and under and $2 for adults. Children under the age of 3 must have an adult accompany them on the ride. The Elgin Express is scheduled to run at Festival Park beginning June 1st through September 1st each Wednesday from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Exceptions to these dates are June 8, when the train will be at the new Meier Park dedication, Westpoint Gardens (located at Nesler and Rt 20), and June 14, when the train will be at Grovefest, (at Randall Road and Technology Drive). The schedule is subject to change and the train will not run during inclement weather.
For more information about the Elgin Express call Jane Gregory, Community Recreation Supervisor, at 847-931-6625. Complete information about upcoming special events at Festival Park please check the city website at www.cityofelgin.org/events.