Associated Press - September 1, 2009 4:54 PM ET

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - A historic railroad that takes tourists from Williams, Ariz., 60 miles north of the Grand Canyon, will be able to expand operations from two to three trains a day under a plan approved by the National Park Service.

An environmental assessment for train operations approved this week also will allow up to 30 special trains each year for events and promotions. Currently, there are no limits on special trains.

The Grand Canyon Railway carries more than 225,000 passengers per year on historic rail cars pulled by diesel or steam engines from Williams to the Grand Canyon's more popular South Rim.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.