A central city rail transit system has been studied numerous times over the last two decades. For FWSI and other supporters of such a system, it is very encouraging to see the City take a thoughtful look at the feasibility of a modern streetcar system. Modern streetcars have proven to be an unmatched catalyst for the type of urban renaissance envisioned for the Near Southside.

The streetcar discussion was mostly dormant from 2002 until 2008, when a subcommittee of the Central City Redevelopment Committee published the report: Modern Streetcars for Fort Worth (.pdf). The report explained how things had changed significantly over the past five years to create favorable conditions for a modern streetcar system.

The report was widely distributed, and response from community leaders was favorable, leading the Mayor and City Council to appoint a Streetcar Study Committee in July 2008. That committee reported back with recommendations, including strategies for funding construction, operations, and maintenance.

Those recommendations led to the hiring of a consultant team led by HDR Engineering to identify a feasible starter project. HDR’s study and subsequent City Council action will determine the future of the modern streetcar. Visit www.streetcarfortworth.com for more information, as well as the study’s website, fortworthstreetcar.org.

Related Pages:
On the Drawing Boards / Under Construction, Parks / Streets / Transit