Little Rock — Contract OK'd

Rail Transit Online, May 2003

The Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CATA) Board of Directors on Apr. 17 finally authorized a $10.98-million contract with Mobley Contractors for construction of the River Rail streetcar's track and overhead power system.  The pact was delayed nearly two months while the Little Rock Board of Directors (city council) delayed approving an additional $98,641 to make up a budget shortfall after Mobley's bid exceeded estimates by $1.18 million. North Little Rock and Pulaski County had previously increased their contributions to the local share of the project, with the federal government providing the remainder.  But Little Rock officials said they needed answers concerning capital costs and future expenses, including operating outlays.  CATA expects to issue a notice to proceed around June 1, with actual work starting about 60 days later.  Operation is tentatively scheduled for October 2004.  Supporters of the $19.5-million, 2.1-mi. (3.37 km) project reassured the board of directors that the replica vintage streetcars will bring 100,000 to 300,000 more tourists to the region and believe the line could be a precursor to a light rail system.  A second phase costing $7.5 million would extend River Rail to the Bill Clinton presidential library, due to open in November 2004.