They are working on the railroad. The shortline railroad that operates the former Rock Island Railroad line across the center of Jewell County is seeking improvements to the track. Some 20,000 new ties along with ballast are being installed between Scandia and Lebanon and the line is being resurfaced.

The line’s Republican River bridge between Scandia and Courtland which has been out of service for several years is to be reopened later this year. Repair of the bridge is expected to cost more than $1 million.

When the bridge is back in service, the railroad will be able to reopen its Yuma line....