Norfolk, VA – Hampton
Roads Transit provided 17,449 passenger trips during the 29th Annual
Grand Illumination parade in downtown Norfolk on Saturday evening.
The Tide light rail led the way
with 11,555 boardings while express buses pressed into service to help people
avoid lines reported 839 passenger trips. The Elizabeth River Ferry reported 5,055
boardings during the weekend party.
The Grand Illumination marks the
traditional start of the holiday season and features floats, bands, and
assorted merry makers parading through the city streets. The event also marks
the time when city buildings are illuminated for the season.
“We are thrilled to be a part this
great tradition,” said William Harrell, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads
Transit. “The numbers show once again the critical role that transit plays in
giving residents options to move about their daily lives. Without trains, buses
and the Elizabeth River ferry, people would be in cars clogging tunnels,
highways and streets.Transit really
moves people.”