Cincinnati Streetcar - Frequently Asked Questions
How many wires does a streetcar have?
Modern streetcars have one overhead wire to reduce visual clutter.
What does Cincinnati's streetcar look like?
The specific manufacturer, model and color for Cincinnati's streetcar have not yet been chosen. However, the City of Cincinnati's streetcars will comply with the federal 1982 Buy America Provisions.
Can streetcar funds be used for other civic operations, including fire, police and trash services?
No, the capital fund budget for the City of Cincinnati cannot be used for operating expenses. The capital funds set aside for the construction of the Cincinnati Streetcar cannot be used for police officers, firefighters, trash collectors or recreation center staff. Additionally, state and federal funds specifically for streetcar and transportation projects are also helping to build the streetcar.
How do streetcars move in city streets?
Streetcars are electric vehicles that operate on rails embedded in the streets. They operate with regular traffic. They pull alongside street curbs at specified stops for passengers to get on and off of them.
How many streetcars is Cincinnati getting?
Cincinnati will have five modern cars on the first segment of the streetcar route, which is 4 miles long with stops located about every two blocks along the route.
How accessible are modern streetcars?
The streetcar that Cincinnati is looking into will have level-floor boarding and entrances on both sides of the car. The floor of the streetcar is level with the curb, allowing quick access for wheeled vehicles (bicycles, strollers, wheelchairs, scooters and personal shopping carts). The dual-sided access doors allow the streetcar to operate on either side of the street, as needed to minimize traffic conflicts.
What is the fare going to be on the Cincinnati Streetcar?
The official fare price has yet to be determined.
Will the fare box be outside or inside the streetcar?
The City is currently considering different styles and alternatives for streetcars and fare boxes.
What is the next route?
The City will be conducting an analysis of the best route for the Uptown area surrounding the University of Cincinnati, hospitals and the zoo. The City will seek public input as part of this process.
Will the streetcars interfere with bus routes?
Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) is a partner in the Cincinnati Streetcar team to make sure that streetcar routes complement, and do not conflict with, current bus routes.
Will the streetcar route go to the Cincinnati Zoo?
The City is currently analyzing the best routes to the Uptown area, and will include public interest and ideal route locations and stops in its final decision.
