Reading, PA — Streetcar Could Aid Development, Study Says

Rail Transit Online, March 2009

A consultant study has determined that a streetcar line between downtown Reading and Wyomissing could encourage tourism and economic development. The study, sponsored by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Sovereign Bank, estimated the capital cost at approximately $40.5 million with annual operating costs of $500,000.

"This will create another image for Reading," businessman Eric Burkey, chairman of the Chamber's trolley study committee, told the Reading Eagle. "We are starting to re-create ourselves. The whole idea plays on our railroad heritage."

No funding has been identified but local officials have suggested state and federal sources along with private-sector investment. "The next step is to see if we can get some creative ideas for financing," Burkey told the Reading Eagle. "This could be a long-term commitment."