Expanded Ocean City trolley service a hit

A record number of Ocean City residents and visitors have used the expanded Ocean City Trolley Service over the Fourth of July Weekend.
The three day weekend resulted in 2,375 riders when compared to 807 last year.
Prior to the busy July 4th weekend, the trolleys were averaging 400 riders a day compared to less than 200 riders a day in 2007.
The reasons: service every 15 minutes, special fares, and much more advertising.
The local Tourist Development Commission has arranged for two additional trolleys for the summer season, bringing the total to four vehicles to cover the north-south route.
The arrangement with the Great American Trolley Company of Cape May Court House also provides for reduced round trip and daily fares compared to previous seasons.
The Great American Trolley Company, in cooperation with the City, launched an extensive promotional campaign to publicize this service. Brochures, signs in local stores and press releases have helped to get the word out.
Also helping to increase ridership is the city’s encouragement to reduce emissions and traffic in the City by parking your car when in Ocean City and to walk, use a bike or ride the trolley.
Mayor Sal Perillo commented, “Last year we had feedback from riders that the trolley was great but the schedule was somewhat uncertain. Now with more trolleys, service is more dependable.”
The trolleys run each evening during July and August from 5 p.m. through 11:30 p.m. on the street closest to the beach and boardwalk. Riders will be picked up and dropped off at any corner on the route.
Fares for the trolley will be $2.50 one-way or $3 for a pass allowing unlimited ridership for that day. Children under four feet tall pay just $1 and family fare discounts are also available.
Another new feature of the trolley system allows anyone possessing a ticket to a concert at the Ocean City Music Pier a free one-way ride to the concert that evening.
Rosalyn Lifshin, Chair of the Tourist Development Commission, commented, “Visitor surveys that the Commission undertook last year revealed concerns with traffic and parking availability during the peak season. This improved trolley service provides an economical, reliable and convenient way to visit the boardwalk and attend one of our wonderful concerts at the Music Pier.”