We Energies has pledged $100,000 to fund operations for Milwaukee’s downtown streetcar during the Democratic National Convention this year, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett announced today during his 2020 State of the City address.
During his speech, Barrett touted The Hop’s success and said by the end of this month, a total of 1 million riders will have taken the streetcar through downtown Milwaukee.
“The HOP has proven to be comfortable, reliable and popular with a 99% on-time record,” Barret said.
Now in its 15th month of service, Barrett wants to expand The Hop into other areas of Milwaukee and called on the Common Council to push the project forward.
“My vision for the streetcar has always been to expand into the neighborhoods, both north and south, and I remain committed to that goal,” Barrett said.
For the first 12 months of The Hop, riders rode the streetcar for free after Potawatomi Hotel and Casino donated $10 million in a naming sponsorship. After the first year of The Hop’s operations, Cleveland-based fiber network provider Everstream announced it would fund The Hop operations for two months with a $90,000 sponsorship.
Barrett also announced today that in the days leading up to the DNC, Fiserv Forum will be open to the public for tours. Historic Milwaukee, Inc., which hosts the annual “Doors Open” Milwaukee, will facilitate the tours.
“The (DNC) gives us a chance to tell our story and we’re eager to do so. A story of hardworking, resilient people, innovative companies, great natural beauty, and cultural and entertainment assets galore,” Barrett said. “My hope is that thousands of people will seize this opportunity, walk through the arena and become a part of this convention and a part of American history.”
