The fleet consists of three vehicles. Purchased from the Portland streetcar system, the red Car 1 and blue Car 2 are replica Council Crest models built in 1991 with both new and original parts; they’re fully refurbished with electrical and mechanical upgrades, as well as ADA accessibility. The orange Car 3 is a Melbourne W2 model from Seattle that was built in the 1920s; it’s slated to run at a later date, expanding service from four days to seven.
An operator cab is located at each end of the car. Drivers can simply pull into the terminal stop at the end of the line and then walk to the other end of the car to drive it in the opposite direction.
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The cars are powered by the pantograph on top of the trolley, which connects to the overhead catenary system of live electrical wires. It’s capable of delivering in excess of 1,000 amps by way of its 600-VDC line voltage.
Trolleys employ two braking methods, each activated from the operator’s cab. Tread brakes apply air pressure to the shoes on each of the car’s eight wheels. Track brakes use electromagnetic friction to further decrease braking distance. The trolleys are also equipped with devices called sanders that distribute sand under the wheels to reduce speed and to gain traction in wet conditions.
Riders may purchase a two-hour pass for $2. An all-day pass will be available for $5. Fares are reduced for seniors, riders with disabilities, and children ages 5–12.
Council Crest Cars
- Length: 40 ft. / Height: 12 ft. 7 in. / Width: 8.5 ft.
- Max Speed: 25 mph / Weight: 55,000 lb.
- Capacity: 85 (40 seated, 45 standing)
- 10 stops / 2.2 miles / 25 minutes.