Jonesboro receives first trolley bus

Jonesboro’s Economical Transportation System (JET) has received the first of five trolley buses for its fleet. The blue trolley bus, complete with wood interior, faux etched windows, and a trolley bell was bought through a $2 million grant from the Federal Department of Transportation for all five of the trolley buses.

“We realized it was time to begin replacing aging buses that were scheduled to be retired, “said Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver. “We also realized this was an opportunity to make our public transportation system more convenient and accessible, of course, but also an experience citizens and visitors would enjoy, choosing to ride the trolley even when they have access to other transportation.”

The city currently has four more of the trolley buses on order, including two red ones. The low emissions hybrid engines are 7.3-liter V Ford Godzilla motors, completely ADA compliant with enough room for 26 passengers and an area for two wheelchairs.

Among the numerous safety features are built-in cameras. Additional grant awards will pay for bus stop shelters. Twenty new shelters are being added and the 27 current ones will be upgraded to the new standard.

JETs added a fourth route two weeks ago and a fifth route is coming in 2025 with the objective being less wait time and improved efficiency and convenience. JET currently provides more than 100,000 rides a year.

“JET trolley buses and the expanded stops and routes afford everyone of all ages the ability to get where they want to go…and, in style,” Copenhaver added.