Landrum City Council searches for a site for new railcar museum 

LANDRUM — The site on North Trade Street would be close to downtown, and could either affect or enhance the Farmer’s Market.  

The site on the south side of the depot where Coleman Street crosses the railroad tracks would have good visibility, but might block the view of the building. 

The Landrum City Council met for their work session at the depot Tuesday night to determine a location for the new railcar museum. Several citizens and members of the Landrum Area Business Association contributed their thoughts about the three site locations.  

In addition to the Trade Street location and a spot alongside the railroad tracks on the south side of the depot, the council also considered a spot on the north side of the building alongside the railroad tracks or at an angle between the corner of the depot and the railroad tracks. 

While those attending the meeting agreed that each site had it’s pros and cons, most agreed that the site north of the depot would not be ideal because it would be less visible from the downtown area. Many expressed concern that the south side location next to Coleman Street might interfere with the visibility of the depot and the events that take place on the property’s grounds.  

“We rent this [depot] out for events,” said Assistant City Clerk Molly Morris. “I wouldn’t want people walking around during my event and coming in to use the bathrooms.” 

While most of the council members said they favored the Trade Street location, they did express concern about having to remove two trees from the location and how the museum would affect the farmers market.  

“The good thing about trees is, we can always plant more,” said Landrum City Council member Billy Inman, who also suggested another option to consider was the area along North Trade where the butterfly garden is now.  

The council also discussed parking options, handicap accessibility and safety for pedestrians and children in and around the museum.  

They decided to continue considering the location options and delay the vote until council members Tammy Cox and Daniel Prince were present.