Next month, the Oakland City Council will likely vote on applying for a $300,000 planning grant to conduct an Alternatives Analysis for a streetcar.  This is the first major step toward implementing the project: we're no longer talking about the streetcar's feasibility; we are initiating the environmental review process to envision where it will go, how it will be designed, and what its effects will be.  While this vote does not mean the city is signing off on building a streetcar, and the grant will likely not cover the full cost of the Alternatives Analysis (anticipated at $1 million), passing this vote is crucial to get the project off the ground.

Mark your calendars for the City Council meeting the night of Tuesday, March 15th.  This will be our chance to demonstrate the broad support base which has come together over the past eight months and show city leaders that Oakland residents, businesses, developers, and property owners are serious about attracting new investment and jobs with a streetcar like other cities across the nation.  Remember, political will goes a long way: Seattle's streetcar went from concept to reality in just three and a half years.  Let's get this resolution passed!

Stay tuned for updates on attending the council meeting and writing letters to councilmembers.