City Circulator Turns 2, Usage Up 160 Percent

The Annapolis trolley circulator, which transports riders for free up and down the historic district, recently celebrated its second anniversary, and city officials report usage is up.

Ever hear a clanging bell on Main Street? That's the circulator announcing its presence. City officials introduced the vehicle in 2011 as a way to facilitate parking for those who park farther away from downtown, or just want to cruise through Main Street at a quicker clip. At the start of 2012, it became a permanent fixture.

Since its first anniversary a year ago, ridership has increased 161 percent, from 61,000 riders in fiscal year 2011-2012 to 159,820 in fiscal year 2012-2013, the city said in a press release. An average of 14,000 people use the trolley each month, according to the city's figures.

 "The Circulator is a big reason why parking garage usage has increased by double digits since we launched the service two years ago," Annapolis Mayor Josh Cohen said in the release.

Transportation Director Richard Newell said the support of local businesses, residents and civic associations have helped the circulator become a success.

 Learn more information about the circulator at AnnapolisCirculator.com.