Roanoke — Streetcar Could Spur Development

Rail Transit Online, August 2007

A study of existing U.S. streetcar systems by the Roanoke Valley Area Metropolitan Planning Organization found that trolleys spur economic development and that a 1.3-mi. (2.1 km) route along Jefferson Street from near Norfolk Avenue downtown to Reserve Avenue could do the same for Roanoke.  The proposed line, which was first unveiled about four years ago, would utilize three vintage cars, either restored originals or replicas.  A 2004 feasibility study by Wilbur Smith Associates estimated capital costs at approximately $17 million, with annual operating costs of $275,000.  Political and community support for the project is building, although many city officials said a streetcar can only be created with substantial federal funding.