Two weeks ago, the City of Grants began to use a BNSF Railroad video camera system, which has already become a point of interest for railroad enthusiasts.
This live-streaming system can be viewed on the SouthWest RailCams YouTube channel, which has 21.4k subscribers from various parts of the country. This audience includes not just locals, but rail fans and casual viewers who wish to catch a glimpse of the trains rolling through our town.
The camera was made possible thanks to a collaboration between the city, Grants MainStreet Project Inc., and South-West RailCams.
Denise Hanson, City of Grants Marketing Director, said the YouTube channel doesn’t merely offer a static view, as it provides live access to radio communications and real-time, as well as recorded footage of passing trains.
Through a partnership with SouthWest Rail-Cams, railroad and transportation interests in the Grants Community are being promoted, which can potentially increase tourism and virtual engagement for the city of Grants. The possibility of attracting visitors who share a passion for trains could boost local businesses and enhance community pride.
These cameras have been strategically placed in areas with high train traffic. Hanson said Grants is fortunate to be one of approximately twelve locations selected for this initiative.
Considering that there are already 21.4k subscribers and only twelve other train cameras, Grants’ chances of capturing the attention of viewers and rail fans are significantly increased, Hanson said. The more footage shared from Grants, the more likely it is that viewers will become curious and prompt future visits.
The camera system is provided and maintained at no-cost to the city by SouthWest RailCams, made possible through the support of rail fan communities and contributions through GoFundMe campaigns.
Hanson expressed her gratitude to the Cibola Arts Council team, highlighting the essential contributions of Mark Vontorne supporting and assisting in this project. “This exciting addition not only enriches our own community, but also offers a unique experience for rail enthusiasts and viewers from across the country,” she remarked.
The installation of the BNSF Railroad video camera system is more than just a technological upgrade; it's a bridge connecting our community to a larger network of rail enthusiasts, fostering engagement and tourism that could leave a lasting impact on Grants for years to come. This initiative serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the vibrant community spirit that drives our town forward.