AUSTIN, Texas — It’s full steam ahead for the restored Zilker Eagle mini train.
In an update on Monday, the Austin Parks Foundation said if upcoming testing goes according to plan, a date will be set to open the train to the public soon.
Once given the green light, the train will be replacing the longtime Zilker Zephyr. The Zephyr announced its end in early 2020 after its previous vendor cited issues due to erosion from heavy rainfall in 2019.
The parks foundation announced the train's new name in April 2021, a nod to Zilker Park's very first train of 1961.
Extensive testing has been underway the last month in Zilker Park. A few weeks ago, the train was tested with a full load of staff members and experienced clearance issues, the Austin Parks Foundation said.
“While this was disappointing, it’s also exactly why we test!” Austin Parks Foundation CEO Colin Wallis said. “We want to work out all the kinks and ensure that train is 100% safe before we open it to the public.”
To fix the issue, the train coaches are being transported one-by-one to Schertz to be adjusted. Stronger springs and lift trucks are being installed to boost the train cars to increase their clearance from the bottom of the car to a track with a full load.
Once the first three coaches have been outfitted with the new springs and lift trucks, testing will resume. If the fix is successful, a date will be set for opening the train.
Wallis also said an issue with erosion on the parkland adjacent to the Barton Springs Road Bridge has been stabilized, and a more permanent fix is in the works.
“We know this project has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but we appreciate you hanging on with us, and we are so excited to be approaching what feels like the final stretch,” Wallis said. “As soon as we get the word that the train can open, we'll share the good news with you along with details about when you can come out to take your first ride.”