Will Trolleys Make a Comeback?

Until the mid-1950s, many major cities in the U.S. utilized trolleys as a part of their transportation systems. Most cities tore up the tracks, but now some municipalities are building streetcar systems again to help solve traffic problems. The Washington Post reports that Arlington, Virginia is funding a 4.7 mile line to be installed along Columbia Pike [link may require registration].

On a recent trip to San Francisco, the cable car system was inundated with tourists wanting to ride the historic cable cars up and down the steep city streets, thus making it impractical to ride without a very long wait. However, based on this rendition, the Arlington streetcar system will look modern so I do not expect it would have a problem with hordes of tourists clogging the system.

Will trolleys make a comeback? What do you think?


5 Responses to “Will Trolleys Make a Comeback?”

  1. Jon Says:

    I’m not sure. If the trolley in Arlington shares the same lane with all the other cars (and has to wait for traffic lights) then I don’t see any advantage over improved bus service. Yeah, it’s pretty and cool, but Arlington County residents are already paying $200-$300 average a month for property taxes on top of their $2000 mortages for the $300K condos and $200-$300 a month condo fees…kinda tight. The idea of a trolley might lure some people away from their cars but I’m not sure it would be cost effective.

  2. S.P. Gass Says:

    Jon, good points. The $138.5 million price tag does sound like a lot. We will see.

  3. Jon Says:

    29 million dollars a mile! Before cost overuns…

  4. George Jenista Says:

    At $138.5 million, it’s a bargain compared to a commensurate road improvement/construction project, about 10-15 times as much.

  5. S.P. Gass Says:

    George, thank you for adding your perspective!

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