Tom Wulf, founder of WulfTeam Productions and long-time supporter of Downtown Ashland Association, is helping to enhance and promote the town with the advent of a walking museum.
Tom Wulf on location with WulfTeam Productions
Wulf served as a board member, president, and executive director of Downtown Ashland Association in the past. He now leads the volunteer committee working to establish a Railroad Park.
The project plan is to create new exhibits for train and history fans, while highlighting important structures and locations within Downtown Ashland. Ashland Train Station, the steam train mural, Ashland Museum, and the Red Caboose are among planned attractions in the Park.
“There are so many different train and railroad exhibits here, yet no one has ever thought to group them together,” Wulf explained. “This is our opportunity to expand upon what we already have and make it greater.” Wulf states that Railroad Park would contribute significantly towards the Downtown Ashland economy, and make the town a more popular tourist site.
Video explanation of the project, produced by Tom Wulf
The Railroad Park project will take several phases to complete, so Wulf’s current priority is raising funding. He notes that Mary Morton Parsons Foundation granted $50,000 towards the project, so long as Downtown Ashland Association can raise matching donations by November 30, 2020. This funding will help buy displays and signage for the exhibits of Railroad Park. Wulf further notes that Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has approved Railroad Park for signage on interstate 95, which would be put in place after the project is fully constructed.
“We have secured over $40,000 needed to match the grant,” says Wulf. “The positive impact Railroad Park will have on Downtown Ashland is both economic and personal. These rails have been the roots of Ashland since its founding. It’s time we further embrace that.”
If you wish to donate or learn more about Railroad Park, please visit ashlandvirginia.com/railroad.
