By Alan Lytle
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-765077.mp3
Lexington, KY – Trolleys could soon be returning to downtown Lexington streets, perhaps in time for the 2010 World Equestrian Games. This morning Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear presented the city with over 2 million dollars worth of state funding for 4 projects designed to ease traffic congestion and cut down on air pollution. Just about half of that total will go toward the purchase of four downtown trolleys. Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry says the city dropped the service over a decade ago because of low ridership. He doesn't think that'll be the case now.
Lextran spokesman Dave Riggins says the trolleys might be up and running in time for the World Equestrian Games two years from now.
The city will use the rest of the funding to purchase some illuminated street signs, construct a rails-trails bridge on the Brighton Trail, and launch a Share The Road campaign to promote bike and pedestrian safety.