Cincinnati — Council Votes Streetcar Funds

Rail Transit Online, May 2010

On April 19 a city council committee voted 6-2 to recommend that the full council approve S2.6 million for planning and design of a proposed streetcar system linking the downtown riverfront to the uptown area and the University of Cincinnati.

Reflecting continuing opposition by those who feel Cincinnati cannot afford the project, a proposal to authorize a $64-million bond issue to help pay for construction was delayed indefinitely. The bonds would cover half the estimated $128-million cost of the first phase and would prove the city's commitment when applying for state and federal funding.

Supporters of the streetcar say it would spur economic development by connecting the city's two largest employment centers.