The Adobe Flash Player is required to view this multimedia interactive. Get it here.

DOT Secretary touts Atlanta streetcar project

Have an inspirational story about your dad? Tell us
12:26 p.m.
How to stay safe outdoors this Memorial weekend
5/23/12
Students make most of school’s Lenten service project
5/23/12
How to make a customized dry-erase board
5/23/12
Woman helps tornado victims with lost photos
5/23/12
> More lifestyle headlines

By ERRIN HAINES, The Associated Press 9:31 PM Wednesday, February 1, 2012

ATLANTA — Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed kicked off the construction of the city's $94 million streetcar project, which they say will be a catalyst for jobs and economic development and a boon for the downtown tourism district.

About half of the funding for the project comes from a federal grant the city won in 2010. The streetcar will run on a 2.6-mile route with stops at major attractions including the World of Coca-Cola, the CNN Center, the Georgia Aquarium and the historic Auburn Avenue district, home to the birthplace of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Supporters are touting the project as the first phase of what could be city and region wide transportation efforts that will also attract businesses to a long-depressed economic area.

___

February 02, 2012 02:27 AM EST

Share this article