The downtown district of San Diego is taking residents and visitors back in time with the release of the Metropolitan Transit System’s (MTS) second classic trolley car, Centennial No. 5. This vintage trolley is almost 70 years old and was painstakingly restored over a three year period prior to starting it’s 2.7 mile route around Downtown San Diego – a route that circles around the 92101 Urban Living office!
The History of the Classic Trolley Cars
The streetcars, also referred to as PCC (Presidents’ Conference Committee) trolleys, were used in the United States in the 1930’s. In San Diego specifically, PCC trolleys were in use between 1936 and 1949, and did the heavy work of the war years. In fact, San Diego was the first West Coast city to use the PPC trolley cars, and they were considered cutting-edge vehicles at the time.
The Reemergence of PPC Trolleys
Although the PPC trolleys were very popular in major US cities before the Second World War, overtime, they were mostly replaced by gas power buses. In recent years they have started to make a comeback due to their retro appeal to tourists.
The first MTS PCC trolley car was introduced in 2011. It’s success led to the reemergence of the second restored trolley car, painted in the classic yellow and brown color scheme, which will share the same route in Downtown San Diego on weekends, Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you’re interested in riding, the classic streetcars will run at 30 minute intervals.
A Changing Landscape Downtown
Those involved in the restoration of Centennial No. 5 have said that the city’s environmental health also played a role in bringing the restore trolley cars back. Both of the restored trolley cars are considered zero emissions vehicles, a benefit that reflects how many Downtown San Diego residents like to live.
Cities throughout the nation are focusing more on urban planning and sustainable living, creating mixed-use communities. Here in our city, we are seeing more of this mixed-use community living with Downtown San Diego condos and lofts built in close proximity to stores, restaurants and anything that the urban resident would need. The new restored trolleys continues to build on this concept, giving those living in the area one more option for getting from place to place without the use of a car.
For more information about living in Downtown San Diego, reach out to the real estate experts at 92101 Urban Living today at 619-649-0368. ')}