HOGRAILS.COM

"The Central Division"

Frisco - Fort Smith District 200

The SLSF yard and downtown businesses north of the depot and Garrison Avenue bridge made up District 200. The yard handles classification for local switching, the turn to Springdale/Fayetteville, interchange with the Missouri Pacific, Kansas City Southern, and Rock Island. Through trains may have power changes since they face the Division’s ruling grade to the north. The climb to the Winslow tunnel was one of the steepest grades on the Frisco. The old turntable and roundhouse have been demolished, but engine service facilities and company stores are still active.

There is team track activity and a variety of older businesses to the south of the yard. Crews working in that area provide entertainment for the Fort Smith Visitor’s Center, housed in a former brothel, Miss Laura’s, which has been restored by the local historical society.

The Missouri Pacific managed to build a line between the Frisco yard and the riverfront, accessing several furniture plants and other businesses north of the yard. Until recently there were several crossings of one railroad over the other’s main to reach their respective customers.

Frisco Yard and downtown businesses.

North end of Frisco Yard

 Businesses North of the Garrison Street Bridge