The Delmar Loop Trolley is making steady progress toward a goal of opening sometime in 2012.
The project would span more than 2 miles and connect Forest Park to the Delmar Loop.
Joe Edwards, the man behind almost every project on the Delmar Loop, says the trolley should clear its environmental impact study next month.
After that he expects progress to come fairly quickly.
"The hope is that by the end of this year it'll be under construction, that's the goal and then hopefully it will then be complete by September of 2012,?Edwards said, “That's a very aggressive timetable, but we're sticking with it."
Edwards says the project still needs another $5 million to $8 million to be fully funded.
Last year the Federal Transit Administration contributed $25 million as part of a competitive grant process awarded to only five cities.
Edwards says the trolley will not only connect Forest Park with the Delmar Loop but also future pedestrian and bike trails like the St. Vincent Greenway.
"And so on that section of DeBaliviere, you're going to have one of those rare things where you'll have every form of transportation…ppedestrian, bicycle, trolley, bus and automobile, everything but jet planes basically," Edwards said.
The Loop Trolley Company is currently in the process of hiring a director to manage the system.
Why a Trolley and Why Now?
There would be many advantages to operating a trolley in The Loop for both the area directly served and the region as a whole.
Connectivity: The Loop Trolley will link two existing MetroLink Stations to cultural institutions like the Missouri History Museum, the University City City Hall, and all the attractions in The Loop like theaters, restaurants, offices and shopping opportunities with vibrant mixed-use and residential neighborhoods.
Economic Development: Trolleys have proven to be a catalyst for residential, commercial and recreational development in cities like Memphis, Little Rock, Tampa and Portland. This is key for the east section of the alignment.
Pedestrian-Friendly Neighborhoods: Trolleys make it easy for people to get around and stop at several locations without the problem of finding parking. This will only enhance The Loop and all that it has to offer as one of the Ten Great Streets in America as designated by the American Planning Association in 2007. It will also provide access into Forest Park, one of the city's highlights.
Environmentally-Friendly: Trolleys are a great way for St. Louis to go green. Because they are powered by electricity, trolleys are much quieter and cleaner than gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles. They also enable individuals to reduce their carbon footprint, so everyone can do their part to go green!
Tourist Attraction: Trolleys can also enhance the unique and special sense of place that is The Loop and the St. Louis region. St. Louis is famous for its historic streetcars. This brings history alive for residents and tourists alike.
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