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Board debates future of downtown trolley as costs and CDL requirements rise
Summary
The Downtown Management Board discussed whether the trolley should remain a funded placemaking service. Staff reported 455 riders so far this season, rising maintenance (roof repair ~$17,000) and growing CDL-related staffing costs, and sought direction on sponsorships and long-term capital planning.
Amy Tweeten, the downtown director, explained that trolley sponsorships feed the image campaign while operations come from parking revenue and asked whether the trolley is a core, long-term service or a short-term placemaking amenity. "the trolley is getting to the point where maintenance costs are going to continue to increase" she said, noting deferred maintenance and driver certification needs.
Members highlighted ridership numbers and rising costs: staff reported 455 riders this season compared with about 726 for the same period last year, and cited a recent roof repair that cost roughly $17,000. Several board members said the CDL training and certification requirements narrow the driver pool and increase labor costs, and members suggested alternatives such as keeping the trolley stationary as a photo/display element, seeking larger sponsorships, or designating it as a park exhibit rather than a continuing operating service.
