Model Train Tribute Rolls into Sun City

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

In October, residents, volunteers, and city leaders gathered to celebrate the partial opening of the Red Poppy Community Garden Railroad at Mulligan’s restaurant in Sun City.

With a model train running around a replica of the Square, the project immortalizes Georgetown while paying tribute to the city’s 175th anniversary and Red Poppy Festival. The project is about halfway done, with the next phase involving installation of buildings around the courthouse as well as plants and ground cover.

Sun City Radio Control member Dave Rowland calls Sun City blessed to have so many incredibly talented people, many of whom have come on board to help with the project, from photographers and visual arts clubs to woodworkers, electricians, and architects.

“I’m ecstatic about this project,” Mayor Josh Schroeder adds. “It showcases the enormous amount of talented people we have in our Sun City community. This will be an attraction that draws people of all ages from all over. I can’t wait to see how the project evolves over the coming years.”

Pictured: Pct 3 Constable Matt Lindemann, Sun City Director of Facilities and Maintenance Stan Lyons, and Mayor Josh Schroeder drive the last (ceremonial) spikes to open the railroad. (photo by Anne Marshall)