Why Now?
The time is ripe with the new Biden Administration announced plans for major investments in modern, sustainable infrastructure, specifically Biden’s stimulus plan which includes $20 billion for transit infrastructure. And, all of this to be led by our very own Mayor Pete as Secretary of Transportation. Stars have aligned and there is no time to waste...let’s start planning!
South Bend is no
newcomer to streetcars
Our community can benefit once again
Benefits
Economic
New businesses, jobs, & people
New tax revenue
Improved property values
Talent retained
Social
Stronger community identity
Greater sense of place
Stronger community cohesion
More comfortable ride
Equity & Access
Accessible transportation
Affordable transportation
Safe transportation
Permanent, dependable transit
Environmental
Less carbon footprint
Less traffic congestion
Better air quality
Less sprawl development
It's never too early to enrich and strengthen our community in the face of opportunity.
And the opportunity is now. The major funding of the South Shore projects has only strengthened the claim of the South Bend, Mishawaka, and Notre Dame communities to investment within their boundaries.
Aerial view of Michigan Ave. with streetcar, 1920s
The modern streetcar is the kind of tool our municipalities need now to accelerate current redevelopment of our community and sustain it over the long run.
Funding Sources
Make no mistake: The RiverRail system will require funding from a variety of sources, with the federal government leading the way and the state government following.
