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Streetcar manager posted; wheels replaced and switch reliability under review as streetcar service continues to be monitored
Summary
DPW said the streetcar manager position has been advertised and that wheel replacements are underway for all five cars. Staff reported switches have shorted in winter conditions, requiring periodic shutdowns for cleaning and inspection and said larger switch replacements will be considered when weather allows.
DPW staff updated the Public Works Committee on Feb. 20 about the streetcar and dockless scooter programs.
Chuck Schumacher, operations administration manager, said the streetcar manager recruitment is open until March 21 with national outreach; the position’s posted salary range begins around $116,000 for nonresidents with a higher step for residents, and staff expect a hire in late spring or early summer if the selection process proceeds on schedule.
Schumacher said wheels have been replaced on all cars or are in the process of replacement; he reported that wheel replacements are performed at the operating maintenance facility and that spares are in stock. He also noted switch reliability issues tied to shunting when salt and moisture create bridging between rails; when switches short or are contaminated staff said the line must be taken out of service for cleaning and inspection. Replacing problematic switches is expensive (roughly $100,000 each) and requires excavation and dry weather for work.
Zach Roter reported on dockless scooters: 23,129 trips were recorded in 2025 to date, with a seasonal dip in February and fleet sizes reduced during cold weather. He encouraged aldermen to coordinate events with operators to promote safe riding and helmet distribution.
Committee members asked about warranty coverage, the possibility of manual switch overrides and the timetable for repairs; staff said replacement parts are in stock for wheels and that switch replacement and inspection work will proceed when weather permits.
