Streetcar Study
Who’s involved?
The Public Transportation Tomorrow (PTT) Task Force -- a group of community leaders and The Rapid, with the assistance of transit planning and design firm DMJM Harris. We welcome your input as part of the community outreach process
What is it?
The study analyzes ridership, possible routes and funding sources for a potential streetcar system.
What's the purpose?
Determine whether the benefits of a downtown Grand Rapids streetcar system will outweigh its costs, and if funding is available to construct the first leg of the system.
What’s the status?
Data were collected and potential routes developed October 2007 to January 2008. After a month of focus groups and analysis of the pros and cons of potential route for the first leg, The Public Transportation Tomorrow Task Force – a group of community leaders – and The Rapid recommended a route along Monroe and Market Avenues.
What’s next?
Four tasks are underway concurrently.
--Mapping out a physical track, including all stops and stations, so its capital cost can be calculated.
--Developing the power system, or “overhead contact system,” to calculate its cost.
--Drafting an operation plan to determine how many streetcars will be needed and operating costs.
--Conducting Grand Rapids market analysis to calculate economic development potential. For example, in Portland, reports indicate over $2 billion in economic development associated with the streetcar investment.
Expected outcome?
Between now and June 2008, identify the first alignment (route), and the cost and economic benefits of the service. If a streetcar system is feasible, establish a timeline for construction based on financing model.
Read more (DOC, 341 KB) about the study process.
A route (PDF, 175 KB)has been established as the basis for the study.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of development might be expected around streetcar stations?
For most station locations with room for development, mixed-use development normally occurs, including retail, restaurants, entertainment and residential as well as offices or lodging. Read more...
Comments or questions?
We want to hear from you! Ask questions or offer comments--community input is critical to this process.
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