EAST ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- A popular model railroad store that burned to the ground last Memorial Day is now expected to reopen by the end of June. The fire broke out at Despatch Junction around 6 p.m. on May 26, 2014.
Witnesses told police the blaze started on the porch of the 30-year-old business, though a cause was never determined. In September Despatch Junction owner Stan Slade received zoning approval from the East Rochester planning board to rebuild his business on Station Road.
Slade said community support and outreach has played a large role in planning to rebuild.
"This whole thing is going to be an experience for anyone who comes through. It's going to have a 16 by 7 foot layout in the building, it's going to be set up as a railroad theme. Some of the equipment is from the old building. So there's some really neat features that are going to be in there. Plus it's a very comforable and customer-friendly atmosphere."
Slade said a local railroad club will be constructing the layout for the business. He hopes to open for business by the end of next month.