On September 30, 2024, the Snoqualmie City Council unanimously approved a development agreement and public use covenant with the Pacific West Rail Foundation (PWRF) to establish a Model Train Museum in downtown Snoqualmie.
The museum will feature one of the nation’s largest and most intricate O-scale working model railroads, owned by Peter Hambling.
Hambling first introduced his vision for the museum to the City Council in 2022. The proposed museum aims to create a cultural, historical, educational, and entertaining experience that will draw tourists and celebrate Snoqualmie’s rich railroad history.
The museum will be located along Railroad Avenue SE and SE King Street, and a vacant city-owned property will be transferred to the museum. PWRF’s fundraising efforts are expected to last up to three years, after which construction will begin.
“This project aligns with the City Council’s priority to encourage economic vibrancy and advance our goals in tourism, retail, and hospitality. Our rich railroad history, which began in the late 1800s, connected our agricultural and timber resources to global markets while attracting a steady stream of tourists who continue to enjoy our beautiful scenery and small-town charm. Having both the Northwest Railway and Pacific West Rail Museums will create a synergy that will greatly benefit our community,” commented Mayor Ross.
Background on the Model Train Museum Project
In December 2022, the City Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hambling to further develop the museum concept. In Fall 2023, after concerns were raised by the Snoqualmie Tribe regarding the initial proposed location at Snoqualmie Parkway and SR 202, the council extended the MOU to reassess the project.
The Pacific West Rail Foundation subsequently identified the Railroad Avenue and SE King Street sites as a suitable alternative.
For more information on the Pacific West Rail Museum, refer to the Development Agreement and Public Use Covenant.
[Images of Pacific West Rail working model train]
