Yakima Trolley Future at Crossroads: City Council to Vote on Operating Agreement

If the Yakima City Council doesn't approve a new operating agreement Tuesday the Yakima Valley Trolleys will stop rolling. That from Yakima Mayor Matt Brown talking about the Yakima City Council meeting set for 5:30 pm Tuesday. He says approving the agreement allows the trolleys to operate with no impact to the general fund.

TROLLEY TRACKS NEED TO BE REPLACED

Brown however says a much larger issue for the council to discuss and make a decision about is the goal to restore the tracks along Sixth Avenue to allow the trolleys to travel to Selah. It's a route that's been out of service for the last several years and a route trolley officials hope to be traveling again in the future.

THE COUNCIL HAS OPTIONS

It can could approve the project on Sixth Avenue to fix the tracks. The council could also vote to "keep the tracks but require outside funding without using city resources to replace them." The council could vote to remove the tracks and go forward with roadway repairs or council members could decide to table the entire project and direct funding to other priorities around the city.

READ MORE: MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS SET FOR HIGHWAY 97 

A $15 MILLION TRACK FIX

The cost of fixing the tracks and the roadway could be upwards of $15 million.
The meeting starts at 5:30 pm at Yakima City Hall.

ONGOING WORK AT THE CAPITAL THEATER WITH A NEW TERRACE

Council members will also get an update on improvements happening at the Capital Theater. The Capitol Theatre is currently undergoing a multi-phase renovation as part of its Capital Improvements Project. The aim is to modernize technology, enhance the audience experience, and introduce new spaces such as a 4th Street Terrace.

CONSTRUCTION IN PHASES

Construction is planned in stages from 2026 to 2029, including the development of the new terrace, renovations to the main auditorium, and facade improvements. These efforts will ensure the theatre meets industry standards while preserving its historic charm.

ATTEND THE MEETING OR WATCH IT ON ZOOM

You can be there live or watch the meeting via Zoom at yakimawa.gov.
Another option is to call in and listen to the meeting:

Dial 1-253-215-8782
When prompted for the meeting ID enter 924 0734 8991
When prompted for the participant ID enter #
When prompted for the meeting passcode enter 903949
The Jan. 20th Yakima City Council regular meeting will air live at 5:30 pm on Y-PAC, Charter Spectrum Channel 194, and stream live here.