[Archived] All Aboard the King Street Trolley!

All Aboard the King Street Trolley!
Free River-to-Rail Service Officially Begins April 1

Clang! Clang! On April 1, the distinctive sound of a brass bell will fill the streets of Old Town Alexandria as the King Street Trolley officially goes into service, transporting residents, visitors, and those who work in Old Town between the King Street Metrorail Station and the Old Town waterfront.

The free trolley will operate seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Approximately every 15 minutes, riders can board at the unit block of King Street near the Potomac River waterfront, the King Street Metrorail station, or at any of the signed stops along King Street, which are approximately 2 blocks apart. The new trolley service replaces the weekend DASH About bus service, which will be discontinued after Sunday, March 30. Typically, four trolley vehicles will circulate on King Street in order to maintain the 15-minute intervals.

In addition to the bell, the trolley sports a black and red exterior, rubber tires for a smooth ride, and adjustable paned windows.

The Alexandria City Council approved and funded the trolley service as part of the City’s National Harbor initiatives. The trolley will complement the water  taxi service from the National Harbor Development across the Potomac River in Prince George’s County, Maryland, also slated to open by April 1. It is expected that the water taxi service will bring hundreds of new tourists to Alexandria every day throughout the year. The trolley will also encourage Washington, D.C. area residents to visit Old Town to shop and dine. The trolley is also part of the City’s continuing efforts to manage congestion and reduce mobile emissions by encouraging residents, commuters, workers, and visitors to choose travel options outside of driving alone.

For more information about the King Street Trolley Service, contact Jim Maslanka at 703.838.3800, or e-mail jim.maslanka@alexandriava.gov.

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