Main Street Trolley in Memphis

Memphis is situated along the Mississippi River. It is known for soul, gospel, rhythm and blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and other genres of music which have their roots in the city. By Hannes Feldner

Memphis is also known for its traditional trolley line that utilizes old-fashioned trolley cars. This adds even more character to the city as most of them are unique and sourced from all over the world and meticulously refurbished.

Unfortunately, Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) closed the trolley line back in 2014 after two separate cars caught fire in the span of six months. MATA rebuilt a new system and opened the Main Line service in 2018. Currently MATA’s continuous efforts will enable the opening of the Riverfront Loop and Madison Avenue Line. The Riverfront Loop is the longest of the system with 4.1 miles and a total of 18 stops. The Madison Avenue Line stretches into Midtown Memphis with 2.2 miles and six stops. Once opened, it will improve moving passengers across downtown. More trolley vehicles have been purchased from San Diego MTS for the purpose. 

HANNING & KAHL is proud to be part of the refurbishment project and recently supplied 23 HWU40 switch machines that are being used on the Main and Madison Lines. During our last visit we provided training for the service personnel who will be responsible for the maintenance of the equipment. 

We will follow up with a visit before Madison Line reopens to ensure smooth travel across all switch machines, and finish the evening on Beale Street while listening to the most covered song in town “I’m walking in Memphis” by Marc Cohn!