Several U.S. towns and communities have built public viewing
facilities for railroad fans to come and watch trains pass
along busy stretches of track. The idea of publicly operated
"train watching" spots may seem odd, but these communities
report varying degrees of success in attracting new tourist
dollars into the local economy and are trying to build on the
train theme for other amenities.
A similar concept could be considered for watching barge
tows, particularly along busy stretches on the Ohio and Upper
Mississippi rivers. Historically, those who wanted to watch
barges would usually be welcomed at locks. Now with the
increased security in place since 9/11, access to all forms of
transportation is much more limited and difficult.
Traditionally, the Corps has provided some public viewing areas
near some lock operations, which are generally little more than
parking lots.
There should be more accessible, and comfortable, viewing
areas where folks can camp and watch tows. Although freight
trains, with their noise, speed and vibration, may be a more
impressive sight, tows also have a significant presence and
attractiveness. Tow watching is particularly attractive at
night when there is moving river illumination.
Watching trains and tows is a renewable resource. The only
thing directly consumed is the time to do it. Trains and tows
operate everyday, no matter what, and some astute communities
have recognized that they can capitalize on this at a very low
cost. Using existing public space and adding some viewing
stands has a relatively small price tag.
Surprisingly, these transportation viewing options tend to
be family-oriented, which adds another dimension of stability
and more local expenditures. Support for local bed and
breakfasts and other amenities can be significant, particularly
in rural areas that have other activities available for family
members who may not be as interested in train or tow
spotting.
So, the next time you see a tow coming by, keep a watch out
for bystanders waving. They are part of the new sport of
"watching" the great river movement. They are also part of a
new clientele for small towns to cater to. The more time they
spend watching, the more dollars they bring into
communities.