FAQs


What is the Connector?

The Connector is Cincinnati's modern streetcar system. It travels a 3.6-mile loop that connects Cincinnati's riverfront at The Banks, Downtown and Over-the-Rhine. 

Is the name Cincinnati Bell Connector or Connector?

The former Cincinnati Bell Connector has been rebranded and is now called the Connector following the merger of Cincinnati Bell Inc. and AltaFiber.  The newly merged company is rolling out its new branding during the remainder of 2022. The merger and associated name change has no impact on the existing naming rights agreement with the streetcar. Cincinnati Bell's 10-year agreement with the streetcar is expected to remain in effect until August 2026. The sponsorship helps to offset the operating costs of the streetcar system.

Who owns the Cincinnati Bell Connector, now the Connector?

The Connector is owned by the City of Cincinnati. It's operated and maintained by Transdev.  

How many streetcars are part of the system?

There are five streetcars. 

How big are the Connector's vehicles?

Streetcars are 77.5 feet long and 8.7 feet wide.  Each streetcar weighs 40 tons empty and can carry 38 seated and 116 standing, for a total of 154 passengers.

How does the streetcar get its power?

The Connector is powered by a single, high-voltage overhead wire. There are also four power substations along the streetcar route. The power is ON at all times, even when streetcars aren't visible. Please use extreme caution and avoid touching the wires, poles or substations. 

Does the streetcar have a dedicated lane for itself?

Streetcars are electric vehicles that operate on rails embedded in the streets. They operate with regular traffic. They pull alongside street curbs at specified stops for passengers to get on and off of them.

Do I need a permit to do work near the streetcar line?

You must have appropriate permits from the City of Cincinnati to do work in the area near the Connector's overhead wire system or along its tracks. To obtain a track access permit or for more permit information, call the City Department of Transportation & Engineering's Permit Office at 513-352-3463. It is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

How much does it cost to ride the Connector?

The streetcar is free to ride! 

Is there an app to see when the next streetcar will arrive?

Yes, there is an app. Download the Transit App to plan your trip using real-time GPS monitoring.

How accessible is the streetcar?

The Connector is fully accessible to people with disabilities.

Vehicles have level-floor boarding and audio and visual messages for all riders. The floor of the streetcar is level with the station, allowing quick access for wheeled vehicles including bicycles, strollers, wheelchairs, scooters, luggage and personal shopping carts. Persons with disabilities who use wheelchairs, scooters and other mobility aids should enter through the center double doors.

Are pets allowed onboard?

Only service animals are allowed on the streetcar. No other pets are allowed on the streetcar unless they are in a secured pet carrier.

What can I bring aboard the Connector?

You may bring bikes, strollers, wheeled luggage, personal grocery carts on board the streetcar. All wheeled devices including wheelchairs should enter through the center double doors.

Can the Connector be chartered for special events?

Yes! Read about how to charter a streetcar.

Questions?