What a wonderful idea to link the two communities.
Streetcar revival closer for West Sac
Council will consider seeking a financing plan for the project that would link Sacramento and its western neighbor
By Lakiesha McGhee - Bee Staff Writer
Published 12:00 am PDT Wednesday, May 9, 2007
The last time trolley cars rolled through West Sacramento was in 1941. Efforts in the area to revive the cars date back 30 years.
Tonight, the West Sacramento City Council will take another step toward resurrecting a streetcar system that would link the city to Sacramento via the Tower Bridge.
While many uncertainties remain -- including how to fund such a project -- the council will consider jump-starting a financing plan, further studies and designs.
The idea is to transport residents, visitors and workers in and around the two cities' downtown and riverfront areas. Short streetcar trips and fewer cars on the road will promote more "walkable" areas, spur economic activity and increase land values, city officials said.
"The streetcar concept is one that has taken off all over the country," West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon said in a telephone interview from New Orleans. He said he made a point to ride and learn about the trolley cars there while on a business trip.
