Cincinnati's streetcar is officially up and running. In a flurry of confetti Friday morning in front of Music Hall, officials declared the Cincinnati Bell Connector open for business.
Former Mayor Mark Mallory was on hand for the event saying, "Previous generations of Cincinnatians built great institutions of business and education. They invested in infrastructure. They build a railroad. They built wonderful neighborhoods and world-class arts and cultural institutions. With this project, we have joined their ranks as a generation not afraid to take on challenges, to make sacrifices and build for the future."
"It's way more than just a piece of transportation. It's representative of where this city is headed and the momentum that is has brought has really brought this city along."
Mallory successor, Mayor John Cranley says the Cincinnati Bell Connector will highlight the city's renaissance for the passengers.
"I intend to be one of those passengers, which is why I bought this streetcar pass. I look forward to riding with all of you."
The opening drew several hundred people, including some from out of town.
Jenny Kessler Klump moved to Baltimore three years ago, but returned for the opening weekend. She was an original supporter of the project.
"It's way more than just a piece of transportation. It's representative of where this city is headed and the momentum that is has brought has really brought this city along."
Jerome Horne works for the transit system in Indianapolis. He says that city is working on a rapid transit line and he came to see how Cincinnati's works.
"Seeing how accessible it is for those that maybe have disabilities and listening to the automated announcements, and just enjoying the ride, and seeing what it has to offer the city and watching the reactions of the public in particular, how the react to riding the streetcar for the first time."
Streetcar rides are free through the weekend. Starting Monday, they'll cost $1 for two hours, or $2 for all day.
