|
The Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Railway and Light Company’s first electric interurban train departed from Cedar Rapids on August 13, 1904. On Saturday, Aug. 14, 2004 - one hundred years and a day later - CRANDIC employees, retirees, customers and special guests gathered at the company's shop facility to celebrate the milestone. Guests enjoyed entertainment, food and tours of the facilities and equipment. |
|
"It was a great afternoon. There was a wonderful sense of camaraderie between those whose lives have been touched in some way by the CRANDIC," said Paul Treangen - CRANDIC president and general manager.
More than 350 people attended the open house, including U.S. Second District Congressman Jim Leach, and Cedar Rapids Mayor Paul Pate. The mayor congratulated CRANDIC employees on their endurance, and said the company's success continues to benefit the entire Cedar Rapids corridor.
"As we look towards our future, outstanding resources like CRANDIC offer a firm foundation for our focus on helping existing business expand here and new businesses grow here," said Pate.
Rep. Leach added this praise in his remarks to CRANDIC fans, "When we look at the problems in American commerce, and look at problems in American railroads, I would recommend that every railroad company in America come here and talk to the CRANDIC and see how it's done."
Alliant Energy Resources President Jim Hoffman also expressed his pride in the railway's success. "CRANDIC is a good fit for Alliant Energy. Through the hard work of its dedicated employees, CRANDIC continues to add value to the utility, our shareowners, our customers and the entire community."
In addition to the other activities, a retiree monument was unveiled at Saturday's event. It's inscribed with the official anniversary logo, and the name of each known retiree whose contributions have helped make CRANDIC one of the premier short line railway company’s in the country.
The retiree monument is located beside the Centennial Train near the entrance to the CRANDIC shop at 3150 12th St. SW.
|
|
Birthday wishes greet those attending the anniversary |
|
|
A retiree memorial monument |
|
|
Visitors get a close up look at the inside |
|
|
The crowd builds in anticipation of the |
|
|
Retirees and their families gather |
