I've got a few questions. Would the restaurant idea be such a bad thing for the 982? Granted that it would probably make it inaccessible for future movement, but at least it would presumably be well cared for.

I get the impression that the city isn't enthusiastic about dealing with an outside organization regarding the future of the locomotive. Would acquiring a permanent display site guarantee that the city would turn the 982 over to you? As a possible way to get around the issue, could you negotiate a deal with an established museum such as the Museum Of The American Railroad (which I use strictly as an example) to "permanently display" the locomotive at their site in Frisco? Once you get full ownership or control of the 982, then you could move it to a more favorable location.

Finally, is it absolutely necessary to restore it to operation? Given the recent track record of various organizations with similar endeavors, I would just as soon see the 982 displayed in an indoor location or at least with a roof over its head.

Charles Brown