BLUE RIDGE, Georgia — Patriot Rail’s Blue Ridge Scenic Railway celebrated Patriot’s former chief executive officer today with a dedication ceremony renaming the railroad’s depot to Fenton Station in honor of his contributions to the transformation of the scenic operation and the Patriot Rail nationwide network.
With over 40 years of experience in the railroad sector, John E. Fenton has been a true leader in safety with a passion for passenger rail. During his tenure, Fenton brought innovation and a fresh perspective to the operation, transforming the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway into one of the top scenic train experiences in the country.
Under Fenton’s visionary leadership, the railway has flourished, offering passengers an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the north Georgia mountains. Since assuming operations of BRSR in 2015, the railroad has hosted over 100,000 riders a year. Last summer, the railroad introduced rail bikes to its excursion menu, providing a unique and active experience for visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty.
“We are proud to honor John Fenton today and recognize his outstanding contributions to our company and the entire railroad industry,” said Matt Nelson, chief financial officer of Patriot Rail. “His dedication to safety, innovation, and creating an exceptional passenger experience has set the standard for our organization.”
Close friends and family and members of the Patriot Rail team attended the dedication ceremony. The event featured remarks highlighting Fenton’s remarkable achievements and his significant impact on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.
“It is a tremendous honor to have the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Station named after me. This dedication is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Patriot Rail Team,” Fenton said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this incredible journey and to work with such exceptional railroaders.”
