LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Inclined Plane
built 186 days ago
The Johnstown Inclined Plane is a cable-hauled railway that provides transportation between downtown Johnstown, on the floor of the Conemaugh River valley, and the borough of Westmont, on top of the bluff that overlooks the valley from the west. Like the two "inclines" in nearby Pittsburgh, the Inclined Plane is a funicular, which uses two cars that counterbalance each other and always move in opposite directions. The stationary engine at the upper station needs to provide only enough power to overcome friction and the difference in the weights of the two cars. The cars leave the upper and lower stations simultaneously, and always pass at the midpoint of the track. Unlike its cousins in Pittsburgh, the Inclined Plane carries vehicles as well as passengers.
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In 1984, the Johnstown Inclined Plane was completely rebuilt at a cost of $3.5 million by it's owner, the Cambria County Transit Authority. In addition, an expanded observation deck was constructed in 1990 to make room for a new Visitors Center.
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Made of durable steel, this Inclined Plane features a graduated protractor and an adjustable pulley. Also comes with a 14-ounce roller that acts either as a vehicle on the plane or as counterweight. These extras – as well as the included pan and cord for the masses – gives this demonstration tool added flexibility.
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Construction of the Inclined Plane was undertaken by the Cambria Iron Company, a predecessor of Bethlehem Steel Corporation, in 1890 and opened for business on June 1, 1891. It cost the company an estimated $133,296 and was intended to provide fixed-rail transportation up the steep Yoder Hill connecting the iron works along the valley floor with the new residential development of Westmont Borough. The railway was constructed with an 896.5 foot runway at a 71% grade. The wheels, rails and other Incline parts were from standard railroad equipment by the Cambria Iron Company. The lower entrance to the railway, crossing Stonycreek River, consists of a heavy iron bridge constructed with the three-foot-thick iron girders and supported by stone abutments.
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On the hillside above the Inclined Plane is a magnificent 30' x 60' American flag, flying on a 125' flagpole at the highest point above the valley. This flag is one of the largest flags in the United States, and can be seen for miles around from almost any point in the valley. It is ... illuminated at night, a spectacular sight.
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An inclined-plane railway company may construct, operate, and maintain an inclined-plane railway for the conveyance of passengers and freight, or either, with such offices, depots, and other buildings as it deems necessary. Such company may establish and maintain a park or pleasure grounds and for such purpose acquire and hold real estate.
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Inclined Plane