Excelsior Springs, MO—In a move to enhance local transportation and tourism, the Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce has finalized the acquisition of a new-to-them chamber trolley. The purchase was made possible through an inventive financing solution involving the City of Excelsior Springs and the Excelsior Springs Community Foundation, utilizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
The decision to secure a new trolley was discussed in detail during the Chamber’s board meeting on February 28, 2024, and led to a successful proposal for funding. The city will provide a $70,000 loan to the Chamber, which will be repaid through trolley usage over the next decade and a financial reimbursement plan. Specifically, $25,000 of the loan will be repaid through 167 hours of trolley bookings allocated to the city, and the remaining $45,000 will be reimbursed to the city via the Excelsior Springs Community Foundation over ten years at zero percent interest.
This strategic financing allows the Chamber to acquire the trolley without upfront costs and benefits the city by ensuring the ARPA funds are utilized before the December 31, 2024, deadline. Additionally, the arrangement provides the Chamber with financial flexibility, including the option to adjust repayment based on seasonal booking fluctuations.
The 2007 Supreme model trolley was purchased for $70,000, significantly lower than its market price of $96,000. Chamber Director Brian Rice said they also plan to sell one of the existing trolleys to help offset the costs of the new trolley.
The Chamber anticipates that the new trolley will boost its offerings and revenue, which has already seen a promising start in 2024 with 13 bookings, generating over $11,000 in revenue. The addition of the Supreme Trolley is expected to further enhance the Chamber’s ability to attract tourists and residents for various tours and events, including the popular wine tours, which have shown increasing bookings.
The Chamber also plans to expand its marketing efforts, leveraging partnerships with the Clay County Economic Development Council and other local chambers to promote the trolley services. The trolley purchase coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Excelsior Springs Trolley service, which has been a unique attraction for the community.
For more information or to book your own trolley adventure, contact the Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce at 426 S. Thompson Ave. Excelsior Springs, MO 64024; phone – (816)-630-6161.
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