By Kate Bartlett
Chautauqua Transit proudly launched its new trolley tourism routes on Independence Day weekend, July 5th. The trolleys offer a unique and enjoyable experience for both tourists and residents alike. The routes operate Thursdays-Saturdays through August, with 2 main routes highlighting many local attractions.
The development of the trolley routes transpired through the Chautauqua Area Regional Transit System’s modernization initiative. Last year, the transit system was rebranded to become CHQ Transit, and took on a few major acquisitions. In addition to the three hybrid trolleys, the transit system fleet was updated with nine new busses.
The hybrid trolleys are beautifully designed with wooden seats, vintage lighting and gold accents throughout. They represent the trolley cars that once rode the streets of Jamestown. “Many people might not realize the significance of trolley cars to Jamestown,” says Justin Gould, Media Coordinator for CHQ Transit. “Trolleys were an essential means of transportation to Jamestown many years ago,” says Justin. “For about 40 years it was the best way to get around town. We’re excited to have trolleys back on the streets of Jamestown,” says Justin. “We’re hoping people take advantage of this unique opportunity to see the sights and get around the area.”
The trolleys operate along 2 main routes, divided between locations. The South County routes are designed to highlight key attractions including Jamestown, Bemus Point, and Midway State Park. Friday routes include Southern Tier Brewery, Ashville General Store, and Panama Rocks. Saturdays the route starts in Jamestown, stops in Bemus Point, proceeds to Midway State Park, and ends at the Chautauqua Institution, looping throughout the day.
The North County routes offer a delightful journey through several wineries and lakefront destinations, as well as Sunset Bay Beach Club, Dunkirk Pier, Mayville’s four corners and the Chautauqua Institution. A comprehensive breakdown of the tourism routes, including detailed maps with estimated arrival times, is available online at chqgov.com/carts/CHQTransit.
“We took careful consideration of desirable locations along both routes in order to help promote tourism to these locations, while providing convenience,” says Michele Westphal, CHQ Transit Coordinator. “We made sure to include the Chautauqua Institution on Saturdays, as there is currently no other public transportation to that location.”
“Our goal is to create a memorable and convenient travel experience for both locals and tourists,” said Michele. “These new routes showcase the best of what Chautauqua County has to offer, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will have.”
In addition to the new tourism routes, trolleys are available for public rental, catering to private events such as weddings, bachelorette parties, birthdays and more. “Not only is it a unique and convenient way to get around, but the trolleys also provide excellent photo opportunities,” says Michele.
Various pricing options are available for the trolleys, ranging from $2.25 for a single ride, to $10 for a hop-on-hop-off option. Reduced pricing is available for seniors, veterans and children, with a family package available for 2 adults and 2 children ($30/day).
Michele and the team at CHQ Transit are excited to share this unique opportunity, and invite readers to come out for a ride through September. “We’re looking forward to watching this program grow, and hope to offer more options in the coming years,” says Michele.
For more information on the tourism routes or how to rent a trolley for a special event, please contact CHQ Transit at (716) 665-6466 or visit chqgov.com/carts/CHQTransit.