Cheney Depot Society seeks funds to move former depot

Cheney Depot Society and BNSF Railway came to terms which will allow the historic structure to be spared from demolition. After years of negotiations, the society agreed to accept the gift of the depot with the stipulation that the society remove the structure and relocate it on property approximately three blocks south, according to former Cheney Mayor Tom Trulove who also serves as society vice president.

The site is located between First Street and the railroad tracks.

Cheney Depot Society President John Tave believes the agreement is a win-win for both sides.

The building was constructed in 1929 in a Mission style resting on a slab foundation. The stucco cladding and concrete slab foundation will make moving the structure particularly difficult without damaging the structure itself.

Compounding this complication is the fact that the depot is surrounded by active railroad tracks. This means the Society must carefully and safely coordinate the proposed move with BNSF to ensure minimal interruption of rail traffic.

Cheney Depot Society is continuing a matching funds campaign. An out-of-state benefactor has issued a challenge to local businesses, college alumni, and rail buffs, to give big for the preservation of the depot.

John Taves, also a Cheney City Council member, will reach out to the Chamber of Commerce, local business owners, as well as past and present city council members for support.

The society has been given possession of the four lots at the corner of First and Union Streets, directly adjacent to a lot the society previously purchased during an internet auction at First and I Streets.

The society plans to use the structure as the southern anchor to the core downtown commercial district.