Tucson ― Trolley Expansion Underway

Rail Transit Online, February 2008

Construction of a short extension of the Old Pueblo Trolley into the downtown area is underway with revenue service expected in the spring of 2009. The line will continue south on Fourth Avenue from the current terminal near Eighth Street to Congress Street, then continue in a loop around Congress Street, Fifth Avenue and Broadway, returning to Fourth Avenue.

Much of the work by contractors Sundt Construction Co. of Tucson and Stacy and Witbeck Inc., should be completed in March. However, a railroad underpass reconstruction on Fourth Avenue won't be finished for another year.

The all-volunteer Old Pueblo Trolley operates restored historic cars from Japan and Belgium on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. A modern streetcar system serving downtown is also being planned that will share Old Pueblo's tracks on Congress Street. Design up to the 30-percent level is now underway and the Tucson Transportation Department hopes to have the initial segment open in 2011.

www.tucsontransitstudy.com