Hi everyone! I'm from Milano, Italy and in the end of August i'll enjoy two weeks on holidays: some in Tampa, some in Downey, LA. What can i see or where can i go to take some nice pictures? I already know about trolley operation in Tampa with rebuilt Birney cars (with trucks coming from my beloved Peter Witts) and i know about Orange Empire Museum. But talking about real trains? Is there something interesting about freigth in Tampa? And in north-west LA? On some maps i saw an intricate network of tracks north of Downey LA area: can i find something interesting there or it's only forgotte and closed industrial links??? Thanks to everyone who answer me! Stefano Paolini Milano www.photorail.com
Hi Stefano ... welcome to Trainboard. We are happy you have joined this happy family of railroad enthusiasts. Being a native of Burbank, I can not give you any information about rails and freight around the Downey area; but I'm sure there's a plethera of places to railfan both Union Pacific and Burlington Northern Santa Fe down there. Considering the security concerns at present, it is not likely you will be able to access any terminal yard without permission from the railroad(s). You probably will be able to catch some good freight action along old highway 99 which parallels the rails through L.A. , Glendale and Burbank. In Burbank, there is a junction where the rails go either to the coastal route, or over the Tahchapi's and into the central valley of California. Hope you enjoy your visit.
Stefano, welcome. If you will be in the LA area long enough, it is not that far to drive to Cajon Pass and Tehachapi Loop.
Just wanted to say that I enjoyed seeing Italy when I was there and here is a few shots I took near your home.
Ehi 'Lion! That Peter Witt's is REALLY near my home!!!! I hope to get to Tehachapi, but by now i just obtain from my friend a trip to the Orange Empire Museum....
to Ironhorseman: i've seen on this map so many tracks near these streets: Washington blvd, Bandini blvd, Slauson ave, Randoplh st., Sycamore st., Garfiled ave.... Are tracks in use? These areas are enjoyable or are not "quiet places"....? Thanks to everyone!
