D.C. Streetcars Expected to Open Towards End of January

Nearly 53 years to the date since the last streetcar departed in D.C., the first one is set to open in late January.

Although budget cuts setting back the streetcar system were announced in October, the first section of the 37-mile streetcar is expected to open the week of Jan. 19.

Former D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray released a statement about the two-mile track on New Year’s Eve prior to Muriel Bowser taking office:

“DDOT and District safety inspectors continue to work together to open the DC Streetcar to passenger service. Safety continues to be our top priority. And while we know that the first day of service is going to be a great day for District residents, we don’t want to rush for the sake of rushing. With that in mind, though, I am now delighted to report that the week of January 19, 2015 is the target for getting H Street up to full speed.”

The proposed hours for the streetcar system are:

• Monday - Thursday: 6 a.m. to midnight
• Friday: 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.
• Saturday: 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.
• Sunday and Holidays: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For more updates and breaking news in Georgetown, click here.

Photo Credit: DCStreetcar.com

More Streetcar News on Patch:

Georgetown Affected by Budget Cuts to D.C. Streetcar System

Streetcar Pre-Revenue Operations Begin in D.C.