Baltimore — Streetcar Study Results

Rail Transit Online, January 2006

Initial findings of a study on a proposed 7.5-mi. (12 km) streetcar loop between the Inner Harbor and University Parkway were released in mid-December.  Consultant Kittelson & Associates Inc. determined the capital cost would range from $100 million to $150 million depending on the amenities selected.  The trolleys would run on 10-min. headways north on Charles Street and south on St. Paul Street, with some portions of the route on Mt. Royal Avenue, Maryland Avenue, Cathedral Street and Hopkins Place.  The study was financed by the Charles Street Development Corp., a nonprofit group pushing for more retail activity and new housing in the corridor.  Kittelson’s analysis shows a fixed-guideway system would not only draw tourists, it would attract development because it would demonstrate a long-term commitment to potential investors.  The next step will be to interest city officials in the project and identify funding sources.