Dallas Rediscovers the Trolley

by Rodney W. Kelly, Principle Associate; Aschman Associates, Inc., Dallas, TX,


Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1990, Vol. 60, Issue 6, Pg. 56-57


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

In 1982, a Dallas businessman and a group of trolley enthusiasts formed the Trolley Task Force to restore trolley service along McKinney Avenue in Dallas. Eventually, they established the McKinney Avenue Transportation Authority, Inc. (MATA). MATA engaged Barton-Aschman Associates, Dallas to conduct a feasibility study. The study estimated that restoration of the original route would cost approximately $1 million, and also proposed an extended alternate route that would cost $1.7 million. MATA proceeded to apply for Urban Mass Transportation Administration (UMTA) grants, and to throw a variety of fundraisers in an effort to raise the needed money. A search also began for trolley cars. Five cars were found or donated from a variety of sources including a 75 year-old car from Portugal. Construction of the system began in 1988 and required extensive rebuilding of the street. The system began operating in July, 1989. Ridership has averaged 1,200 passengers a day, 200 more than expected.

Subject Headings: Feasibility studies | Benefit cost ratios | Automobiles | Urban areas | Streets | Ridership | Public transportation | United States | Texas

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