Exotic MOW at Berthoud, CO

A front view of Herzog 174 at Berthoud, CO on 12/31/2016.
Copyright © Sean Murphy 2016

A side view of Herzog 174 at
 Berthoud, CO on 12/31/2016..
Copyright © Sean Murphy 2016

It isn't often that I spot any interesting power or equipment at Berthoud, Colorado. The town used to have a number of industries on its siding but now only sees maybe a boxcar or two per month for a printing company and a machining company. Recently though, I spotted this unique piece of MOW equipment. After its second visit to town, I was able to catch these photos.

Another side view of Herzog 174 at
Berthoud, CO on 12/31/2016..
Copyright © Sean Murphy 2016

Looking at the work train, I was curious as to its use. The answer is pretty interesting. The Herzog 174 was built by Herzog Railroad Services, Inc. The unit serves multiple uses and is typically controlled by one operator. Here is a a link to the corporate site showing the unit's capabilities.
http://hrsi.com/services/mpm-multi-purpose-machine/

Here is a link to the unit in action at Boulder, CO last fall.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3v4JTSGIZL8

I'm not entirely sure why the unit is in Berthoud. Some ballast
piles have been delivered but the unit has been here for at least
2 weeks. Could it be a new industry spur, work on the line,
storage? Time will tell.

The tail cab unit of Herzog 174 at
Berthoud, CO on 12/31/2016..
Copyright © Sean Murphy 2016