When walking through the display, you may not consider the planning and meticulous work that go into making this annual attraction a reality. Paul Widek, from our Facilities team, plays an integral part in the design and planning. The design process begins with him and Exhibit Associate Mary Lou Linton-Morningstar meeting to discuss the possible themes for the following year. There is input from the other departments in Phipps about what should go into the design, including plants and props. Paul and Mary Lou take all this feedback and then the work of planning truly begins. Paul says they consider all “the fine details of how each train, interactive prop, and even how every planting and rock work will affect the design.” Months in advance of the installation, they begin building the track layout, props and interactive elements that will be installed. There is a huge amount of work, so many volunteers participate by helping to build the props and models.

Paul and the team take great pride in the annual garden railroad, always looking for ways to make the display more interactive for guests. They often hide secrets and surprises throughout the landscape. Last year the challenge was to find the illusive Big Foot, this year guests are tasked with searching for a miniature Heinz Ketchup bottle! The displays also showcase many Phipps and Pittsburgh references, this year you can look out for artwork from past Phipps flower shows. When asked, Paul could not choose a favorite past garden railroad theme. He said, “In the end, it always comes back to seeing the joy in our guest faces that make it my favorite display each and every year.”

When Paul began working on the Garden Railroad eleven years ago, it was a much simpler affair. The trains were controlled with hobby level power supplies and basic on/off timers. In 2015, the design progressed and they began using a computer-controlled system, known as PLC control. The PLC controls allow for all the interactive features to function and the design team more freedom in how the trains interact. The first year the Garden Railroad utilized a PLC controller, the theme was a whimsical Fairy Tale Train which was enhanced with new interactive features. Guests could launch Captain Hooks boat and activate the Little Engine that could. Paul remembers this as a milestone for the Garden Railroad. Just this year they have upgraded to a new PLC controller and are writing programs that will allow the interactive features to expand and grow over the coming years. There are so many exciting features for guests to look forward to!

 While most people may think of children when it comes to loving model trains, model train enthusiasts come in all ages. Paul says the guests “never cease to amaze me with their knowledge and love of not only model railroads, but all things trains.” He adds, “I love to hear the stories of childhood railroads and children’s dreams of working on the railroads.” Garden Railroad has the ability to make everyone feel nostalgia and creates fond memories, touching everyone who visits Phipps and those who work here!