Politics
Despite Advancements, Sun Link Blockages Remain a Persistent Challenge
A recent incident in downtown Tucson underscored ongoing issues with streetcar blockages. The Road Runner observed a compact car parked improperly at the East Congress Street and Sixth Avenue intersection, obstructing a Sun Link streetcar. The driver vented frustration as he struggled to contact the vehicle’s owner while passengers waited impatiently inside.
Interestingly, this location has been identified as a major hotspot for such blockages. Officials noted that the situation has improved since the streetcar’s service began nearly three years ago. Data from January 2016 to January 2017 indicated that 232 blockages resulted in almost 30 hours of delay, with nearly one-third occurring at this particular intersection.
General Manager Steve Bethel provided insight into the persistent problem. He pointed to the difficulty many drivers experience while parallel parking on the left side of the street, especially in an area frequented by nightlife-goers. In response, officials have designated parking spots for compact cars only and are introducing signs to make the area a pickup and drop-off zone during peak evening hours.
Emergency vehicles also account for a significant portion of blockages. Analysis revealed that approximately 44 percent of all obstruction incidents involved these vehicles. While personal vehicles averaged 10.2 minutes of delay, emergency vehicles averaged only 7.2 minutes, suggesting a different level of urgency behind their presence on the tracks.
Tucson Fire Department Assistant Chief Joe Gulotta explained that blocked tracks often signal critical responses to emergencies. Though such incidents can lead to brief delays, first responders prioritize quick resolutions without impeding streetcar operations. The city faces challenges as parking designed for personal vehicles often leaves little room for larger emergency vehicles.
Despite these difficulties, cooperation between Sun Link and emergency services continues to improve. Both parties are utilizing various measures to reduce obstructions, such as issuing tickets for violations. However, tickets are infrequently handed out, and many towing actions are canceled before the tow truck arrives.
While blockages remain an issue, Bethel is optimistic about the progress in Tucson compared to other cities with streetcar systems. “We’re in way better shape in Tucson than they are in most places,” he remarked, though he acknowledged that complete resolution of the problem may never be achieved.
In related news, road closures are scheduled to affect traffic in Tucson. Starting at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, South Sunset Boulevard will be closed around the clock until early May, with alternate routes suggested through South Kinney Road and South Sheridan Avenue. Additionally, from Friday, Tucson Estates Parkway will also close for approximately five weeks as part of Arizona 86 widening. Nighttime work to install underground electrical lines at the East Grant Road-First/Euclid Avenue intersection will begin Monday, with restrictions in place from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Friday.
Contact: 573-4235 or mwoodhouse@tucson.com. On Twitter: @murphywoodhouse
