One of the more iconic Houston railfanning locations is the Milby Street Roundhouse, just east of downtown on the former Houston, Belt & Terminal line, now UP's West Belt subdivision. I have seen numerous photos of this location during the 1980s and 1990s, when ATSF, BN, and Rock Island motive power were assembled here all the time. Railfans used to be able to walk right up to the locomotives as they sat after being repaired and whatnot. Unfortunately for me, the era of rainbow power sets here was before my time, so I'll have to settle for what it looks like today. BNSF has taken over this facility, with Gensets and rebuilt Geeps and SD40s all ruling the roost now. Additionally, a fence has been erected around the property, making this view the closest one can get to the engines. One constant, however, is the giant coffee plant looming in the background behind the units. Formerly a Maxwell House operation, this plant has always produced a strong aroma of coffee in the area, particularly in the morning. However, with the current owner's recent announcement that they will be ceasing operations soon, the future of this building remains uncertain.
A testament to the never ending tide of change and the few things that remain constant during it.
