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Streetcars part of mass transit proposal for Grand Rapids

A mass transit task force envisions streetcars transporting passengers around downtown Grand Rapids and busses carrying commuters to Rockford and other outlying areas. Looking ahead at the mass transit needs of metropolitan Grand Rapids, those are some o

A mass transit task force envisions streetcars transporting passengers around downtown Grand Rapids and busses carrying commuters to Rockford and other outlying areas. Looking ahead at the mass transit needs of metropolitan Grand Rapids, those are some of the ideas under discussion.

"We are talking about a 2030 plan so we are talking about over 20 years," says RAPID Chief Executive Officer Peter Varga.

A task force has come up with three possible scenarios-- A, B, and C ranging from least to most expensive. RAPID administrators are holding five openhouses to explain the various plans to the public. Plans B and C include streetcars in downtown Grand Rapids. Under the most expensive options, they would carry passengers to hospitals and all the way to East Grand Rapids.

"Development occurs around streetcar lines," says Varga. "People see them and want to live down there."

But streetcars and other mass transit improvements will cost millions of dollars. Voters may be asked to pay higher taxes.

You have a vision of where you want to go and then the question is how will the public support you as you move into the future," says Varga.

"In the city they will," says Becker. "I don't think it will be as well received in the outlying areas."

After the open houses, RAPID administrators will recommend A, B or C to their board of directors. A final decision is expected in June.

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