There is currently an effort underway to reintroduce streetcars to Lancaster with a 2.6-mile streetcar loop. As in many areas, the move to reintroduce streetcars has both strong proponents and opponents. Proponents argue for economic benefits and reduction in traffic congestion, while opponents generally argue against high cost and lack of efficiency.
There is truth to both arguments. Portland, Oregon spent $56.9 million on the first 2.4 mile section of its streetcar system. While that seems like a lot of money, the Portland Office of Transportation considered the project a huge success. Not only did ridership far exceed the projected numbers, but the streetcar also attracted considerable development and investment ($2.28 billion!) in the area within two blocks of the streetcar alignment.
Here are a few more cards showing streetcars in Lancaster, Pennsylvania:
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It's always interesting to see the many power lines/poles during this time period - especially in the town centers. And how great to have a streetcar go past your house? Much nicer than a city bus . . .
ReplyDeleteOh how neat that we have the same card.
ReplyDeleteAnd I enjoyed your research on the history of streetcars in Lancaster.
I have a co-worker who was born there.