| ST. LOUIS, MO – The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) congratulated Joe Edwards and the Loop Trolley Transportation Development District (TDD) at a recent quarterly meeting for the progress they’ve made on the Loop Trolley project.
“FTA is excited to see the Loop Trolley progress to a stage where the project can begin construction,” said FTA Regional Administrator Mokhtee Ahmad. “Thanks to Joe Edwards, Chris Poehler, and the FTA team for their efforts on keeping this project moving forward.” Ahmad presented framed posters to Edwards and Poehler with the words “When it comes to streetcars, I turn red into green.” Edwards is chairman of the Loop Trolley TDD, owner of Blueberry Hill and a staunch promoter of The Loop revitalization. Poehler is the Loop Trolley TDD Administrator. The Loop Trolley TDD plans to issue construction bid packages this month, with construction expected to begin later this summer. The Loop Trolley is one of only five proposed projects out of 65 nationwide to receive an FTA Urban Circulator Grant. The $25 million FTA grant is the major funding source to build the $43 million fixed-route electric trolley system in the City of St. Louis and University City. “This really is an exciting project for the entire St. Louis region,” said Edwards, who first proposed an electric streetcar system in 1997. The Loop restaurant, shopping, and arts & entertainment district derived its nickname from the streetcar system that served the area until 1966. The 2.2-mile Loop Trolley will run along Delmar Blvd. and DeBaliviere Avenue, connecting The Loop to Forest Park, with a stop at the Missouri History Museum. The Loop Trolley system will operate three cars – a restored historic trolley car and two vintage replica cars. The 2.2-mile Loop Trolley, owned by the Loop Trolley Transportation Development District, will promote connectivity, environmentally friendly transportation, economic development and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. This fixed-track vintage trolley system, built in a first-class manner, will add to the quality of life, increase tourism, and spur economic development. The heritage trolley will be an environmentally positive attraction as well as a prototype for connecting other areas in St. Louis through clean electric transit. The Loop Trolley will be a source of pride for the metropolitan area. For more information, visit www.looptrolley.com or email info@looptrolleycom. # # #
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Source: Loop Trolley – News