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OVERVIEW
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One component of the Long Range Comprehensive Transportation Plan
is the study of a possible inner-city rail streetcar circulator system. This study
will consider the types of operation that would leverage the most economic development,
while providing mobility to downtown workers, residents and visitors. It will also
include any transit facilities and amenities needed to improve efficiency, passenger
safety, convenience and use of the transit system.
After months of studies, discussions and analysis, a plan showing preliminary routes
was presented and approved by the VIA Board of Trustees in January 2010.
VIA is now pursuing Federal Transit Administration grants to help fund the initial
2.2 mile, north-south route that would run along Broadway and South Alamo Street.
In addition to possible federal funding, both the City of San Antonio and Bexar
County have expressed support for the rail streetcar project while private-sector
stakeholders and property owners have expressed interest in participating as well.
One proposed starter route would run from north to south along Broadway and South
Alamo Street, and another from east to west along Commerce and Nueva Streets through
HemisFair Park. Each of the proposed starter routes are between 2 to 2.5 miles in
length. Project development must begin to more clearly define specific routing,
refine estimated costs, and determine sources of funding. This project represents
a collaborative step toward improving the livability and accessibility of our vibrant
center city.
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