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Pigeon Forge extends trolley service year-round


pigeon forge trolley
The Pigeon Forge Trolley makes at stop at the Island in Pigeon Forge; image by Jeaneane Payne

PIGEON FORGE, TN - For the first time in 14 years, Pigeon Forge Trolley ticket prices increased, effective Jan. 1, 2019, allowing for year-round trolley service. Beginning Jan. 6, 2019, the North and South Parkway winter trolley route will operate from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily and remain in effect until the trolleys resume full operation on March 12, 2019.

The Pigeon Forge trolley system is the third-largest rural transit system in the U.S.

The winter route will travel as far north as Sevierville and to light number 10 on the south end of town. The route also will travel portions of Teaster Lane. In total, there are more than 100 trolley stops located on the winter route.

“Our city leaders are constantly looking for ways to improve life in Pigeon Forge for our residents,” said Pigeon Forge City Manager Earlene Teaster. “Transportation is an important factor to everyone, and by expanding our transit services and offering year-round trolley service, we hope this provides a convenience to those who live and work in Pigeon Forge.”

Previously, trolley service in Pigeon Forge ceased the first week of January and remained out of service until early March. The schedule aligned with the city’s tourism season, which typically begins to increase in March as spring break travelers return to the area.

Trolleys do not operate on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Pigeon Forge residents and those who work in the city may purchase a year-round pass ($35 per person), a $3 one-day pass, a $1 North or South Parkway ticket as well as tickets for additional route options at the Pigeon Forge Trolley Office located in the Old Mill district at traffic light seven. (There is no charge for children ages three and under.)

Last year, more than 750 year-round passes were sold. City leaders hope to see an increase in those numbers with the winter route addition.

“Year-round trolley service is not only a convenience that the city can offer Pigeon Forge residents and workers, but trolley use also helps ensure cleaner air by decreasing the number of cars on our streets and, in turn, the amount of emissions released into the air,” Teaster added.

During peak season, the Pigeon Forge transit department offers six trolley routes, all of which originate and end at the Pigeon Forge Trolley Station located in the Old Mill district on Old Mill Drive. Annually, more than 2.9 million passengers use the mass transit system in Pigeon Forge.

All Pigeon Forge trolleys and trams are lift-equipped for wheelchairs and/or other mobility aids and may be accessed at any designated trolley stop. Passengers who are unable to get to a designated trolley stop may schedule a paratransit van for next-day pickup. Paratransit van reservations may be made by calling (865) 453-6444.

For more information about trolley service, please visit www.pigeonforgetrolley.org.

Published January 7, 2019








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