Pasadena, CA — Circulator Pricey But Profitable

Rail Transit Online, November 2010

According to a recently-completed study commissioned by the Pasadena Streetcar Steering Committee, a public-private partnership formed in August 2009, a downtown streetcar circulator could be an economic boon for the city. The analysis, conducted by consultants Strategic Economics, cost $100,000, 60 percent of which was raised by the private sector with the remainder coming from the city.

The preferred route would be a one-way loop on Union and Green streets to Pasadena Avenue and a double track line on Lake Avenue to California Boulevard, Extensions could be built to Pasadena City College and Cal Tech.

"It's much less of a transit system and much more of an economic development engine," said city Transportation Director Frederick Dock. City Councilman Chris Holden agreed, but tempered his enthusiasm due to the cost. "It's bold, it's innovative, and from that standpoint it kind of
fits the profile of what Pasadena is all about,' he said, "But in terms of whether it's realistic or cost-effective, only time will tell."

The study found the city would have to spend around $75 million of its own money if it hopes to attract the necessary federal funding. The study will now be distributed to civic and business organizations to determine the level of interest in moving ahead with more detailed planning.