CVSR Contracts with AMPS Traction

CVSR Contracts with AMPS Traction to Repower Historic Locomotives

Peninsula, Ohio, April 14, 2026 — Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) has entered into a contract with AMPS Traction of Westerville, Ohio, to repower two of its historic locomotives, marking a significant investment in sustainability while preserving the legacy of rail travel in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

The two locomotives, currently powered by 1959 Alco FPA4 diesel engines, serve as the primary power for CVSR’s scenic excursion trains. Operating in daily seasonal service, each unit logs more than 1,500 hours annually, pulling 4–8 passenger cars along a 26-mile route through Cuyahoga and Summit counties. Each trip carries more than 300 riders, offering one of the region’s most iconic and scenic rail experiences.

Through this $3.5 million modernization project, supported by $2.1 million in funding from the Ohio EPA’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program and Diesel Mitigation Trust Fund, these legacy engines will be transformed with modern electric propulsion systems. The result: significantly reduced emissions, improved efficiency, and a more sustainable future for rail travel in the national park.

Currently, the locomotives consume approximately 12,800 gallons of diesel annually. This repowering effort reflects CVSR’s commitment to environmental stewardship without sacrificing the authenticity and nostalgia that define the guest experience.

“This partnership with AMPS Traction represents a pivotal step forward.” said Larry Stevenson, CVSR President/CEO.  “By combining their expertise in electric propulsion with our commitment to preservation, we are able to reimagine our historic locomotives for the future, improving efficiency, reducing environmental impact and ensuring these iconic engines continue to tell the story of rail travel for generations to come.”

“This project reflects the future of rail, where the legacy of these locomotives is preserved while advancing to modern, zero-emission performance,” said Doug Bardwell. “We’re proud to partner with Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to show that sustainability and heritage can coexist and thrive together, while lowering fuel costs, delivering cleaner air, and proving that battery-electric technology is ready today for real-world operations.”

AMPS Traction brings specialized expertise in electric propulsion and rail modernization, making them a strong partner in advancing this initiative. Together, CVSR and AMPS Traction are demonstrating how innovation and preservation can work hand in hand—protecting natural resources while ensuring the magic of the journey continues for generations to come.

About Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad 
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational, recreational, and heritage railroad experiences while supporting the preservation and enjoyment of Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Ohio & Erie Canalway.

About AMPS Traction

Established in 2018, AMPS Traction brings together a team of engineers with decades of experience in specialty power and controls. The company is dedicated to helping organizations take a practical, confident approach to implementing zero-emission vehicle solutions, delivering the expertise and support needed to move from concept to operation. For more information about AMPS Traction visit www.ampstraction.com