For the past four years, TOYX, Inc. has been honored to operate the historic Erie Railroad turntable and surrounding locomotive maintenance facility in Port Jervis, New York. Once a forgotten industrial site, this City-owned property was transformed through immense volunteer effort into a vibrant heritage destination where railroad history came alive through restoration, exhibits, events, education, and community engagement.
The heart of the site — the operable 115-foot Erie Turntable, one of the largest surviving turntables in the United States — served as the centerpiece of this preservation effort. Around it, TOYX volunteers restored historic railroad equipment and built public displays that told the story of railroading’s impact on Port Jervis and the region. Thousands of visitors enjoyed open houses, special events, exhibits, and hands-on experiences that celebrated this rich industrial heritage.
The City’s Decision
In late 2025, the City of Port Jervis notified TOYX of its decision to unilaterally terminate all leases and agreements for the turntable site, effective July 26, 2026. While TOYX’s existing agreement extends far beyond that date, the City has chosen to pursue optional property remediation and likely site redevelopment rather than continue a partnership with our organization.
Despite our detailed proposals — including plans backed by public and private support — the City has declined to negotiate a new lease (or a direct sale) to preserve the site as a railroad exhibit with its historic fabric intact. This decision means that TOYX, and all equipment and artifacts on site, will need to relocate elsewhere ahead of the contract termination date.
Our Legacy
TOYX’s work at the Erie Turntable was never just about restoring old railcars or maintaining equipment — it was about honoring people, community memory, and shared identity. Over the past four years, we have sourced and displayed 27 historic railcars, including rare original examples from the Erie Railroad, Erie Lackawanna, and Conrail that are deeply connected to Port Jervis’s railroad heritage. One of these railcars houses the Tri-States Railway Preservation Society Museum. These railcars and artifacts formed the foundation of public exhibits and hands-on displays that helped visitors understand the city’s role as a major railroad hub.
In addition to restoration work, TOYX hosted educational exhibits, open houses, and special events that welcomed thousands of visitors to the site. These programs were designed to make railroad history accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages. Throughout this effort, TOYX partnered with local organizations, small businesses, and community nonprofits, strengthening community ties while encouraging local pride and economic activity. Thousands of volunteer hours were invested not just in physical preservation, but in creating meaningful experiences that connected people to their shared past.
How to Help
The loss of this treasured heritage site marks a profound moment for both Port Jervis and TOYX. Preserving history depends on community voices and public engagement. Residents and supporters can help by sharing with local officials why railroad history matters and why it remains an essential part of the city’s cultural identity. Participation in City Council meetings, particularly during public comment periods, ensures that these perspectives are heard and considered.
Support for TOYX’s relocation and ongoing preservation efforts is also critical. By volunteering time, contributing resources, or making a financial donation, individuals can play a direct role in sustaining the organization’s mission. Together, we can continue honoring the legacy of railroading by preserving the stories of the people, industries, and communities that built and shaped this region.
Our Future
TOYX remains fully committed to preserving railroad history, even as we prepare to relocate our collection off the Erie Turntable site. We are actively pursuing new permanent facilities that will allow us to continue restoring and maintaining historic railroad equipment, hosting educational programs and public exhibits, and creating opportunities for community engagement through events and interpretation.
These future facilities will also support TOYX’s long-standing community initiatives, including Operation Toy Train, one of the nation’s largest toy collection efforts benefiting local children and families each holiday season. While many artifacts and pieces of equipment are currently being moved into temporary storage, TOYX is working with municipalities, preservation partners, and donors to secure a long-term home that aligns with our mission and ensures continued public access to this important history.