Remarks for Secretary Tippett
Newton Rail Depot Dedication
Tuesday, September 20, 2005, 5 p.m.
Newton Depot, Newton, N.C.
Good Afternoon.
Thank you, Anne, for that kind introduction.
It is an honor to join you all as we celebrate this momentous occasion.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of the Newton Depot Authority and the citizens of Newton.
I would like to thank the many local elected officials, civic and business leaders that are here today, as well as our other platform guests.
The honorable Bob Collier, who spoke a few moments ago, has done a commendable job representing the citizens of Newton, Catawba County and all of this region on the Board of Transportation.
Bob, I thank you for your hard work to improve North Carolina's transportation system.
This area is also served by Division Engineer Mike Holder and District Engineer Jackie McSwain, who both continue to do an outstanding job leading the department's efforts in this area.
Finally, I would like to recognize Denese Lavender and Ed Davis from NCDOT's Enhancement Unit for their work with the Newton Depot Authority to make this day a reality.
A Transportation Legacy
I cannot think of a more appropriate place for the state's newest transportation museum than here in Newton.
Newton is not only home to a beautiful new rail depot, but it is also a town whose identity is deeply interwoven with the railroad.
Since 1859, rail has shaped the lives of Newton citizens and spurred the development of this wonderful city.
Over the years Newton has been home to several smaller depots, however, the one we are dedicating today has withstood the test of time.
Built in 1924 and opened in 1925, this depot served as Newton's gateway to the world as thousands of passengers passed through its doors for over half a century.
After passenger rail service to Newton ceased, the great citizens of this community did not let this important piece of history fade away, but rather took steps to preserve this town's transportation legacy for future generations.
That legacy is exemplified in not only the amount of sweat volunteers poured into reviving this building, but also by the tremendous community support the project has received.
Thanks to your hard work and determination, this depot will now be a gateway to the past and the future by giving generations of residents and visitors alike the opportunity to learn about the close ties between railroad and Newton's history.
Community Partnerships
Returning the historic Newton Depot to its former glory was made possible through community partnerships, as well as funding from the N.C. Department of Transportation's enhancement program.
The enhancement program exists to improve the cultural, aesthetic and environmental aspects of North Carolina's transportation system as well as promote alternative modes of travel.
As a result of the federal Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, our department has been able to enhance communities across the state, including a number of others here in Catawba County.
In addition to the restoration of the Newton Depot, the department has worked with local organizations to provide funding to build the second phase of the Newton Heritage Trail, improve handicap access to the Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge, pave shoulders along several roads in Hickory to accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians and landscape medians along Thornburg Avenue in Conover.
Fostering Economic Development
Projects such as the one we are celebrating today are great examples of the work we do each day to improve North Carolina's transportation infrastructure.
This newly restored depot not only helps preserve our state's cultural history, but it also boosts this region's potential for economic development.
Before today's ceremony, I was able to see first hand how the museum is coming together.
I had the opportunity to view the restored main hall and exhibits on rail and other modes of transportation.
I also saw where a model railroad exhibit will soon be installed to recreate the rail lines from Salisbury to Asheville and outside I saw the site where a future rail car exhibit will be displayed.
By preserving items in this museum, citizens and visitors will have the resources available to help them understand the close relationship between transportation and society.
With so many exciting and unique features, this museum is certainly destined to become a new hub of activity for the city of Newton and generate new economic opportunities for your downtown area.
I understand that town leaders have already set aside space in the depot for future restaurant or retail space, demonstrating that you clearly recognize the great potential of this facility.
Greenway Connection
The depot is not only an important link to Newton's history, it also serves as an important link to the town's future multi-modal transportation system.
In addition to housing an exhibit of historic rail cars, the depot's grounds will soon become a key destination for bicyclists and pedestrians.
They will serve as the northern terminus for the Newton Heritage Trail, which as I mentioned earlier, is also an NCDOT enhancement project.
This greenway will link the restored depot to cultural attractions in downtown Newton, including the Newton-Conover Civic and Performing Place, the North Main Avenue Historic District and the Catawba County Museum of History, strengthening the area's sense of community.
And by bringing people and communities together, both of these projects truly demonstrate Gov. Easley's vision for One North Carolina.
It will also create a multi-modal transportation system for Newton.
Conclusion
I am confident that everyone that comes to this facility will leave with a greater sense of appreciation for Newton's rich history and strong transportation ties.
And, I see the depot quickly becoming depot one of Newton and Catawba County's top destinations.
I encourage you all to visit this depot often and take full advantage of the resources this facility has to offer.
Thank you for inviting me here today.