Bass Run Rail Riders is a non-profit organization that consists of a coalition of people who are dedicated to preserving the history of railroads and railroad inspection cars. BRRR strives to provide a unique way for friends and families to spend quality time together while at the same time educating others about the history, operation, and safety of railroads and railroad motorcars. BRRR is also committed to the promotion of goodwill and good public relations between local communities and the railroad. BRRR is not a speeder club.  We augment existing clubs by acquiring, maintaining, and operating a location for all clubs to enjoy. As such, membership is limited to the officers and those with highly coveted skills needed to keep the association alive.  However, all clubs, individuals, and the general public is welcome to help us in any way they can, including through donations, becoming an authorized user, and volunteering to work to help clear the spur.

WHAT IS BRRR DOING?

BRRR is interested in attaining14 miles of rails known as “The Glassrock Spur”. The Glassrock Spur is a set of rails owned by the state of Ohio and has been out of service and unused for over 10 years. This neglect has turned the rails into an eyesore to local communities, strewn with trash, and overgrown with weeds and trees. In their current condition, they are completely unusable. We are currently working with various state and county officials, companies, and the Ohio Rail Development Commission to acquire them. Upon acquisition of these rails, BRRR will bestow new life into a degenerating rail resource and begin the extensive work to clear the right of way and crossings of ten years of disregard. This will give all motorcar clubs a safe and legal destination to operate their historic equipment without impacting active railroads.  Once successful, Bass Run Rail Riders will operate one of the most unique recreational destinations in the state of Ohio for use solely by historic railroad motorcars and maintenance of way equipment.  

WHEN DID THE IDEA FOR BRRR BEGIN?

The idea for BRRR first started in 2002, but it took over four years to finally get off the ground due to other responsibilities.  In August of 2006, BRRR was officially formed and work started to become a non-profit corporation in the great State of Ohio. We derived the name from a small 3 acre pond known as known to locals as “Bass Run” that sits along this section of rail. All of the original members became officers – Eric Curtis, Matt Mantell, Justin Kennedy, and Mike Valentine. Our board of directors was filled by other participants in our organization. We are a group of committed individuals who are steadfast in reaching our goals.

WHO IS BRRR AFFILIATED WITH?

All officers and directors are members of NARCOA, the North American Rail Car Operators Association. The are a national governing body to oversee safety, provide guidelines for operation, and help with legislative issues.

The BRRR organization is a member of the Ohio Rail Tourism Association, an advocate in Ohio for independent rail roads that attract visitors to the state.

We are also affiliated with the Recreational Railroad Coalition in California, a non-profit group formed in 2003 and has the same goals as BRRR throughout North America.

HOW CAN I ASSIST BRRR?

The best way you can help is to check back on this site often for news of our proceedings.