TOPEKA (KSNT) - Gage Park's new electric mini-train is attracting visitors this year as it grows in popularity with locals. Shawnee County Parks & Recreation (SCP+R) announced on Thursday, Oct. 24 that more than 10,000 people have ridden the mini-train so far in 2024 as compared with last year. The train is also responsible for bringing in an additional $30,000 in revenue. SCP+R replaced the old diesel mini-train engine in 2022, ending its 55-year streak of carrying children and their families around Gage Park. The new electric engine was approved due to the costs it would save SCP+R costs associated with keeping the previous engine running. So far, maintenance costs are down $20,000 compared with the amount required to keep the former engine in working order. "It took us a little while to get the mini train up and running and we had a few technical issues that we had to sort through," said Tim Laurent with SCP+R. "The rides are increasing and the maintenance costs are going down." New roundabouts in the works for Topeka, Shawnee County People are encouraged to visit the mini-train this coming weekend from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26 for the special Spookmotive event taking place with a Halloween-themed spin on the train. You can find the mini-train at Topeka's Gage Park at 635 Southwest Gage Boulevard. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.  Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf