The Hop prepares to preview L-Line expansion

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Hop is ready to extend its routes for the first time.

"We've seen numbers continue to rise ever since the pandemic. We're getting closer and closer to those pre-pandemic numbers," Milwaukee Dept. of Public Works (DPW) Commissioner Jerrel Kruschke said.

On Wednesday, Oct 11, the Milwaukee DPW gave CBS 58 and other local media a first look at The Hop's new L-Line. The route will take riders along the lakefront, offering access to businesses and attractions in that area.

"When you want to access the festival grounds, the Public Museum, you're not going to have to pick up your car and add more traffic to our streets, which obviously reckless driving is everywhere," Kruschke said.

Starting Sunday, Oct. 29. riders can take the L-Line, but only on Sundays. During this route preview, there will only be two active stops, Michigan and Clybourn. Kruschke said even though the route will not be fully open because construction at the Couture Transit Concourse is not completed, this preview will allow for more access for passengers while giving operators the chance to work the route sooner.

Riders who use The Hop weekly say they are excited about the expansion because they say it will add even more value to Milwaukee.

"Oh, it's absolutely fabulous. It's just so convenient to go to restaurants, bars, and events," Janine Kent said. "It's an asset for the whole community, not just the downtown area."

Milwaukee resident N. Humphrey uses The Hop to run errands and visit friends. She said she understands why some people are against the streetcar, but she enjoys using it weekly.

"I live within the vicinity; all my friends live around here. It's good to go to the gym. It's been wonderful, and it's pretty secure, too," she said.

"Everybody has their opinion about why it's not a good idea. I mean, taxpayer money, of course, is a concern. I mean, it's great for students and tourism. Milwaukee is booming. The Bucks, everything is improving, it's an improvement, why not?"

Full service on the L-Line is expected to begin in April.