Ever since the late 1970s, a pair of red cabooses have been part of the Kings Mountain landscape on Piedmont Avenue in the parking lot near the Southern Arts Society.
The city of Kings Mountain is now in the process of deciding what to do with the cabooses as it makes new plans for the space.
According to a post made on the city's website last week, the city of Kings Mountain is finalizing the development of a parks and recreation master plan, and part of that plan involves finding a new location for the Farmer's Market, which is currently located on private property on Battleground Avenue.
"A pivotal aspect of this plan is the establishment of a publicly-owned or long-term lease-controlled site for our growing Farmers Market, ensuring its sustainability for years to come," the post said. "While currently held on private property, the Farmers Market faces uncertain long-term availability. To secure its future, we have identified the historic site of the old depot, cabooses, and parking — also home to the Southern Arts Society — as the ideal location for revitalization. Our initial steps have already begun with the successful demolition of the previously fire-damaged and condemned brick structure, paving the way for future enhancements."
According to the post, the city has recently solicited proposals regarding the future of the cabooses, which were donated to the city in circa 1977.
The announcement on the city's website for the solicitation of proposals was made Tuesday and closed by end of day Friday.
City Manager Jim Palenick said the proposals were an open call to any and all.
"As such we have no idea yet what the proposals may entail," Palenick said in an email Wednesday. "Any disposition of the cabooses or acceptance of any proposal must be approved by city council."
He said there is no timeline for the project as the city does not yet know if any of the proposals would be satisfactory.
As far as what it would cost, he said the goal is not incur any expense.
"Also, our goal was not to pay to have the cabooses removed but rather someone would purchase and move them; or, at minimum move them for the right to retain ownership," Palenick said.
According to the post on the website, the cabooses hold potential for preservation or relocation efforts.
"Proposals could range from the sale of them for repurposing to simply facilitate their removal, with the final decision ultimately resting with the city council following a thorough evaluation," it said.
The city encouraged people to check back for updates following the Friday proposal deadline.
People can learn more about the overall Parks and Recreation Master Plan Project on the cityofkm.com.
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