High Tech Electric Trolleys Roll Into Pedestrian-Friendly Downtown New Haven

June 10, 2002...New Haven, CT... "These classic-style trolleys build from and add to the vitality of downtown New Haven, " exclaimed Mayor John DeStefano, Jr. "As downtown grows larger and bolder, these trolleys help keep it intimate and pedestrian friendly."

"Connecticut's most alive downtown once again is on the cutting edge," added Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, who spearheaded the receipt of $1.2 million in federal funding for purchase of the trolleys. "This is a case study of how the federal government, a dynamic city, involved citizens, and private businesses can unite to provide environmentally-friendly public transportation to support the economic development of a wonderful downtown."

The trolleys will circle State, Chapel, and Elm Streets, Broadway, and the Audubon Arts District Mondays through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting July 1. Funding for their operation will come from New Haven Savings Bank, United Illuminating, and a City partnership with Pro-Park and LAZ Parking. A startup loop serving the New Haven Savings Bank, United Illuminating, and the Coliseum garage begins today.

"This is a wonderful public private partnership," explained Economic Development Administrator Henry Fernandez. "The City matched the federal funds to acquire, a regional public transportation agency operates, and supportive private-sector players fund the operations. New Haven Savings Bank and United Illuminating deserve special recognition for their extensive commitment to building this partnership."

"This is a great opportunity to serve our hometown," added New Haven Savings Bank CEO Peyton R. Patterson, "With these trolleys, we support our employees, promote use of underutilized parking garages, and add to the excitement of downtown New Haven."

"This attractive, convenient transportation alternative is an important contributor to the continued economic vitality of downtown New Haven, "explained Nathaniel Woodson of United Illuminating. "It's an exciting demonstration of how the latest electrical technologies can provide clean, environmentally-friendly mass transportation."

"Both the technology and the partnerships are cutting edge here," concluded trolley champion and Greater New Haven Clean Cities Coordinator Lee Grannis. "The federal government sought to support public-private partnerships that deploy alternative fuel vehicles, build markets for this technology, enhance energy security, and improve environmental quality. New Haven has achieved these goals ten-fold here!"