In the wake of the tremendous success of LSU football this season, the Capital Area Transit System (CATS) in Baton Rouge, La., has developed one of public transits more innovative initiatives – Trolley Rouge. This is a seasonal route that highlights cultural, dining and shopping venues in Baton Rouge. With more than 200,000 visitors to Baton Rouge for each of the home football games, Trolley Rouge is linking those visitors – and locals alike – to gaming and entertainment venues, as well as premier restaurants and shops.
“We are beyond thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking public/private partnership comprised of private business entities and CATS that aims to harness the visitors in town and introduce them to the gem that is Baton Rouge. This allows us to present our product to a new and diverse audience that might not otherwise visit us,” said Joel Loots, vice president of marketing for Hollywood Casino, a platinum sponsor of Trolley Rouge.
Trolley Rouge began Oct. 1, 2011, and its first season will run through Nov. 26, 2011. It is a great way for visitors as well as locals to benefit from the panache of Baton Rouge. In addition to the downtown area, Trolley Rouge offers patrons the chance to enjoy the shopping and food experience at leading venues. Passengers have been encouraged to make multiple stops and fully enjoy all that Baton Rouge has to offer.
“We are thrilled with the success of Trolley Rouge and can’t wait for CATS to run the service again for the upcoming bowling convention, riverboat tourists, Mardi Gras revelers and LSU baseball fans in 2012 and beyond,” said Paul Arrigo, president of the Baton Rouge Convention and Visitors’ Bureau
Trolley Rouge has been run as a weekend route, and it runs late-night to accommodate home LSU football games. The cost for route is $4.00, which is the cost of a regular day pass, and is good for the entire day.
Because of the remarkable success of the first season, Trolley Rouge will be run on a seasonal basis to coincide with events happening in the capital city.
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