GLADSTONE — The Gladstone Michigan Soo Line #730 Authority announced one more step has been achieved in protecting the Delta County historical exhibit and sight. Bird netting has been installed that will help protect the engine from deteriorating

After years of neglect, pigeons moved in and were slowly destroying the engine. Partnering with the City of Gladstone, a restoration committee was formed and has taken on the task of cleaning and the restoration of the engine. Funding for bird netting was achieved and it has been installed.

Donated labor for the netting installation by was supplied by the Upper Peninsula Michigan Building and Construction Trade Council led by Ryan Stern and Michael Smith. Brady LeDuc from Loyal Tree Service in Gladstone donated his boom truck for a day, along with a scissor lift donated by Jeff Diebolt and labor from Pete DeHaan from Iversons Building Supply. The project was completed in one day.

Paint will be ordered and cleaning and painting will be done by the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Local 10-11 of the Upper Peninsula based in Gladstone next spring. Funding is still being sought for the painting phase of the project.

The Gladstone Michigan Soo Line Steam Engine #730 Authority has also started a new partnership with the Community Foundation for Delta County. The group called the partnership a win/win for the Authority and the City of Gladstone for the long term perpetual care of the steam engine.

Anyone who would like to make a donation to the restoration effort can make checks payable to the Community Foundation of Delta County C/O Soo Steam Engine #730, 2420 1st Avenue South, Escanaba, Michigan. 49829.

The Community Foundation for Delta County is a 501 (c) (3).