An important piece of our neighborhood is now in safe hands as the Johnson City Development Authority has taken ownership of the CC&O Depot on Buffalo St. This relic of our past now will go through careful preservation and eventual development as a centerpiece and anchor for downtown and a welcoming place for both citizens and those visiting Johnson City. Having been chosen to be Project Manager for the Depot I feel a strong sense of responsibility for careful deliberation and planning as we move ahead with this community effort. We now have a Facebook page Save Our Rail Road Station which has gathered a wide spectrum of supporters for the use of public and grant funds to preserve this treasure. Our Depot Committee now has representation from the city and county commissions, historic preservationists, Convention and Visitors Bureau, Economic Development Authority, Johnson City Development Authority, and a greenway and trail supporter. Our primary concern now is getting a new roof on the structure and then contracting with an architect with preservation experience in a plan for development. We have discussed returning the Waiting Room to its original 1908 condition with vintage seating and time tables, rail artifacts, and museum quality displays. Several have expressed interest in investing in features such as a rail themed cafe', bike rental shop, year round local crafts and local good vending area in the warehouse, using the covered platform an adjunct farmer's market for produce and crafts, and renting the upstairs office space for artists and small local businesses. If any one or small group desires a tour feel free to contact me at dreese@jcdevelopment or 423-833-7095. (Photo courtesy of johnsonsdepot.com)