I’m willing to bet that if the streetcar proposal is extended to Conestoga St. instead of Vine St., Lancaster Newspapers would drop its opposition.
The immediate problem with the streetcar proposal is its dependency on Federal “earmarked” funds, which are currently under attack by both of the major political parties. And congressman Joe Pitts generally opposes earmarks.
Unless Rick Gray & Co. can convince the State to completely fund the construction of the streetcar project, it could be in serious trouble. With Sen. Gib Armstrong out of the picture beginning next year, Lancaster City’s gravy train from the State could dry up very quickly.
I know this might be nothing more than wishful thinking. But I very nearly lost hope for downtown Lancaster when the convention center construction bonds were sold. I really want to believe Lancaster City still has the potential for a successful future, however I’m not convinced that it does.
Note there is still no explanation of how they expect private support to fund the operational losses of the proposed streetcar system.
