A downtown trolley program could get the green light at today’s meeting of the Capital Area Transit System board of commissioners. If approved, the Trolley Rouge service would run from downtown to various attractions and retail locations throughout Baton Rouge on Saturdays and Sundays during football season. The service would be a boon for riders and the city alike, says CATS CEO Brian Marshall. “(Trolley Rouge) is an economic development program, an opportunity to take people around who in other circumstances might not be able to do so,” Marshall says. He referred specifically to LSU football crowds, which he says could provide a jolt to city merchants. “Visitors to Baton Rouge sometimes have trouble getting around; streets change, traffic is often bad on the highways. With Trolley Rouge, they can board and alight as they please,” he says. Marshall says that private funding will cover 75% of the $14,000 cost of Trolley Rouge, with the difference to be covered by fare revenue. Fares would be $10, which would get passengers unlimited trips for the day. Though the fare exceeds that of other public transit, Marshall says, he is confident the initiative will pass and will prove popular to riders. Three existing trolleys will be used for the service. “Trolley Rouge is absolutely the best initiative from CATS, ever,” he says. “CATS had been seen as lacking a purpose for the common good. Now we’re giving value and purpose to the city.” The board meets at 4:30 p.m. at 2250 Florida Blvd. in the second-floor conference room. —Ian McGibboney
Today’s poll question: If Trolley Rouge becomes available on weekends, will you use it?
