The TECO Line Streetcar System's extension from Dick Greco Plaza (near the Tampa Convention Center) north into downtown Tampa will begin operating Sunday, Dec. 19.
The extension ends at the new station at Franklin and Whiting Streets, which is between the downtown YMCA and Hattricks, and across the street from the Poe Plaza esplanade. This extension adds one-third of a mile to the 2.4-mile streetcar system to better connect some of Tampa's most popular tourist, entertainment and business districts: Ybor City, the Channel District and Downtown Tampa. To view a map of the entire streetcar system, visit: http://www.tecolinestreetcar.org/about/maps/downtown_network_map_12_01_10.pdf
Federal money, secured by U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, played a major role in the streetcar expansion. Castor has been pushing and advocating for alternative transportation systems, including streetcar extensions, since she was a Hillsborough County Commissioner. She will continue to work with HART to make the streetcar a success.
"By extending the streetcar, we were able to create vital construction jobs in Tampa," Congresswoman Castor said. "The extension will also serve as an important connection to Tampa's upcoming high-speed rail line, which is expected to create thousands of jobs in our community."
A grand opening ceremony to celebrate this extension project and unveil the new station's lighted public art component will be held in late January 2011 and will be open to the public.
About the Extension Project
The design and construction cost of the extension project was $5.3 million, paid primarily with federal funds, including $1 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The project includes a new station, and single track from Dick Greco Plaza to Franklin and Whiting Streets, with a passing track north of Brorein Street. Three vehicles will be capable of boarding at the side-loading platform station and up to four vehicles will be able to stage at the passing track.
Family Discount Pass Now Available
The TECO Line Streetcar System is also now offering an all-day family pass for $12.50. This fare covers up to five passengers, which includes up to two adults. Children ages 4 and under continue to ride free with a paid adult. These family passes may be purchased with cash or debit/credit card at Ticket Vending Machines, located at most streetcar stations.
Streetcar Operations
Streetcar hours of operation are:
· Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
· Friday: 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. (Saturday)
· Saturday: 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. (Sunday)
· Sunday: Noon - 8 p.m.
The streetcar runs on a frequency of 15 - 20 minutes, except as follows:
· 30 minutes on Fridays and Saturdays, 1 - 2 a.m.
· 20 minutes Monday - Wednesday, 3 - 10 p.m.
For more information, visit www.tecolinestreetcar.org or call (813) 254-4278.
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