The Waterfront Red Car Line in San
Pedro, home of Los Angeles Harbor, celebrated its grand opening on July 19.
An estimated 500 people, including a number of prominent elected officials,
attended the gala “Red Car Revival” dedication ceremony at the 6th St.
station. Following the speeches, the 1.5-mi. (2.4 km) trolley line was
opened to the public. Heavy crowds were reported at the four stations
throughout the afternoon and more than 2,000 free tickets were handed out,
although officials estimate that many more people actually rode the two
operating cars. They include No. 501, a new replica of a Pacific Electric
500-class suburban car first used in 1902, and No. 1058, a heavily modified
original PE car of 1907 that has been fully restored. Still under
construction is another 1902 replica, No. 502. The cars run Friday through
Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with historical commentary by operators. A
$1 all-day ticket is also accepted by the electric rubber-tire trolleys now
serving two routes linking historic downtown San Pedro with other area
attractions. The L.A. harbor department funded the $10-million heritage
trolley project, which serves a bustling cruise ship terminal, in hopes of
bringing more tourists to San Pedro.
