Portland Streetcar sets 10th anniversary party

August 12 marks the 10th anniversary of operation by the Portland Streetcar, generally considered the first “new” U.S. streetcar operation and by far the largest such system to date. Portland, Ore., city officials will mark the event with a celebration in Jamison Square Park, located within the Pearl District.

House Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), a staunch champion of streetcar, light rail, and other passenger rail alternatives, and Portland Mayor Sam Adams reportedly will attend the celebration. Streetcar service will be free on August 12, and also during the weekend (13th and 14th).