Money for the V&T

Better late than never.

Nevada lawmakers, led by Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt and Tourism Director Tom Tait, have realized the potential of the project that would reconstruct the Virginia & Truckee Railroad between Carson City and Gold Hill.

The impetus is Indian gaming in California. But even without the threat of casinos along the highway corridors leading to Nevada, the V&T is a tremendous opportunity to diversify Northern Nevada's tourism base.

The Nevada Legislature's Interim Finance Committee last week approved tourism officials' request for $2.6 million to help rural areas compete with the threat of Indian gaming.

The biggest chunk of the money - $1 million - is for the V&T project, which would rebuild the line along its historic route. Current estimate for reconstruction is $22 million.

While we still prefer that the major source of funding for the V&T be private dollars, public-sector support is important to keep the momentum going. And if the state is to commit tax dollars to boost tourism, then it has a responsibility to seek out the types of projects that will give people a reason other than gaming to visit the state.

The V&T is the best idea going, in this respect. In reconstructing the V&T, its supporters aren't merely creating an amusement ride for families. Disneyland, it ain't.

The Virginia & Truckee is a vital piece of Nevada's history. It deserves to be resurrected for its cultural significance alone. That it would be a significant tourist draw is economic justification for the reconstruction.

Never underestimate the fervor of a rail buff.

Another $42,000 in tourism funds is headed for development of a gift shop at Nevada Magazine in downtown Carson City. It would be another place, like the Nevada State Museum and the Legislative Building gift shop, for visitors to get a souvenir by which to remember the capital city.

Imagine the day, though, when the memory they will take home will be a ride all the way from Carson City to Virginia City on one of the West's most famous railroads.