The First Hill Streetcar vs. The 60 (Image: CHS)
75 years — and some major testing delays — later, streetcars returned to Capitol Hill in January. The launch was a rush job with little ceremony. But officials say the 2.5-mile, 10-stop route connecting Pioneer Square, the International District, First Hill, and Capitol Hill will get its celebration February 13th. The celebration will bring to an end the free ride for the route which has enjoyed more riders than expected thanks to its no-fare introductory period.
Starting Monday, February 15th Tuesday, February 16th riders will need to purchase $2.25 adult fare at station platforms using an ORCA card or ticket machines. 3,000 riders are expected to use the streetcar every day — though many have been critical of the delays the FHSC sometimes encounters as it travels in the traffic lane, sharing space with automobiles, buses, and the occasional, extremely poorly parked car or truck.
Seniors and Reduced Fare will still be $1.00.
I’ve enjoyed the street car so far, but I think it should be less than $2 for everyone to ride. If you’re able bodied and the weather isn’t horrible, you might as well walk the length of the route and it seems unlikely that most people will be riding it end to end. Might be nice if you’re connecting it to other transit, but if you’re just riding the street car and not catching the transfer back, the price is steep for such a short ride.