Washington DC mayor Muriel Bowser and District Department of Transportation (DDOT) director Leif Dormsjo along with other district officials have officiallly opened the passenger service on the H Street / Benning DC Streetcar line.
The 3.3km mixed-traffic route, with eight stops, connects Union Station with the intersection of Benning Road and Oklahoma Avenue, near RFK Stadium.
The streetcar is the first part of an eight-mile line that will span the district east to west.
Bowser said: "We are excited to get DC Streetcar up and running.
"Streetcar expands public transportation options for residents and visitors, and connects neighbourhoods.
"We thank the businesses and residents along the H Street / Benning corridor for their patience and support leading up this historic day."
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By GlobalDataLast year, the DDOT was awarded the task by the mayor to complete the project and start operations after clearing all safety inspections.
Dormsjo said: "When mayor Bowser charged DDOT to get the Streetcar rolling, our number one priority has been to open a safe and reliable system that will support additional transportation options in the district.
"We are grateful to DCFEMS chief Gregory Dean who worked closely with the agency to ensure the system was safe for the public.
"Today’s streetcar system will enhance mobility options for district residents, workers and visitors."
Under the introductory period offer, passengers will be able to access DC Streetcar service without charge. After this period, the DDOT will review the fare policy and the option for Sunday service.