The Cincinnati Streetcar, now known as the Bell Connector, weathered numerous controversies on the way to completion. Now it faces the prospect of balancing its budget less than three years after launching.
Hannah Sparling and Sharon Coolidge report from Cincinnati: "The streetcar’s new budget predicts a nearly $1.4 million deficit in fiscal year 2020 – a big enough gap that it will suck up the streetcar’s reserves and could, for the first time, leave city taxpayers on the hook for the difference."
According to the article, the streetcar's poor financial situation is caused by low ridership and loess-than-expected advertising revenue. It's still unclear how the city will address the budget shortfall.
FULL STORY: Will taxpayers have to bail out the streetcar? Maybe. There's a projected budget deficit.
Cincinnati Streetcar Sets Monthly Ridership Record
The Cincinnati Streetcar, now known as the Cincinnati Connector, has come so far.
Streetcars Out of Service in Cincinnati
It's been a rough week for the Cincinnati Bell Connector.
Cincinnati Streetcar Ridership Falling as Service Flounders
Supporters of the Cincinnati Bell Connector are confronting mounting concerns about the operation of the city's new streetcar system. Meanwhile, ridership is declining, quickly.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
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Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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