The Showcase celebrates the return of streetcars to the city after more than fifty years, allowing the public to view and tour one of the three Czech manufactured streetcars for the first time since their purchase and arrival in the United States in December 2009. DC plans to build a 37 mile, 8 line streetcar system, with the first streetcar line in Anacostia expected to start revenue-service by the fall of 2012 and tracks being laid on H Street and Benning Road for a second line. The modern DC streetcar network will protect environmental quality and enhance the current transit system in the city.

The Czech Embassy fully appreciates Mayor Fenty’s efforts in embracing the DC streetcar project and pushing towards its realization after many years of planning. The Czech Embassy is ready to work with the DC government to further facilitate cooperation with Czech entities to service the streetcar network.

The Czech Embassy will continue with its celebration of the Czech manufactured streetcars with a model display when it opens its door to the public for the fourth annual EU Open House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 8, 2010.

For more information about the Czech streetcars made by Skoda –Inekon, visit http://ddot.dc.gov/DC/DDOT/On+Your+Street/Mass+Transit+in+DC/DC+Streetcar