D.C. Juggles Overhead Wires and Historic Views

Washington D.C. is planning to build a citywide streetcar network, but the overhead wires required for those plans would affect the city's historic views.

1 minute read

December 23, 2010, 12:00 PM PST

By Nate Berg


"The streetcar, once considered antiquated, is now back in vogue in many cities, and Washington D.C. is looking to build its own streetcar network. But the district is facing a very unique challenge: how to build a system with overhead wires that doesn't obstruct the city's historic, monumental views. City leaders say they can do it, but the federal government isn't so sure."

NPR talks with D.C. residents and historic preservationists who are trying to stop the plans from moving forward. But the incoming mayor is behind the plan.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010 in NPR

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