Dec. 10--A new train excursion will pull out of downtown Globe for the first time Saturday, carrying its first load of passengers -- along with hopes for an economic boost from train and history buffs.

The Copper Spike Train Excursion will make one-way and round-trip journeys from Globe's recently renovated historic train depot to the Apache Gold Casino Resort about five miles to the southeast.

The excursion train is a venture of Arizona Eastern Railway, which hauls copper products for Phoenix-based Freeport McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc., formerly Phelps Dodge Corp. The freight railway's parent, Iowa Pacific Holdings, also operates several scenic railways, including the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad across southern Colorado.

A diesel locomotive will initially pull the four-car tourist train, which will include a 1950s-era dome car -- featuring a glass roof that provides views in all directions -- a club or parlor car and two coach cars.

By mid-January, the train will be powered by a vintage steam locomotive, railroad officials said.

The train tour will focus on the area's mining history and link up with walking tours of Globe and similar activities, said John Thomas, vice president of sales and marketing for the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad and the Copper Spike.

Local economic-development officials have projected the new rail excursion could draw as many as 40,000 visitors a year, said Kip Culver, director of the Historic Globe Main Street Program.

"We're hoping that it's going to open up the area to a whole group of people who are interested in trains," said Ellen Kretsch, director of the Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce. "People who are train buffs are very passionate."

If you go

--What: Copper Spike Train Excursion

--When: Starting Saturday, running Tuesdays through Sundays through May 2.

--Where: Historic Globe Train Depot, Broad Street, downtown Globe. From Tucson, take Arizona 77 to Oracle Junction, Arizona 79 to Florence Junction and Arizona 60 to downtown Globe.

--Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for children 12 and under.

--Information and tickets: Call toll-free 1-866-979-RAIL

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