San Diego trolley project enters its final phase

Yesterday, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System and San Diego Association of Governments held a ceremony to kick off construction of the final phase of the $660 million trolley renewal project.

The modernization of the Blue Line — which has an average daily ridership of more than 50,000 — includes elevating a dozen stations, enhancing access between bus and trolley services, and providing new shelters, closed-circuit television, next-arrival signage and enhanced lighting. The final project phase is expected to be completed in less than 18 months, according to a press release.

The renewal project is being funded by a variety of sources, including a regional half-cent sales tax for transportation; California Proposition 1B and 1A bond money; and the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Started in fall 2010, the trolley renewal project is scheduled for completion in 2015.