Mark Hains:

1.  Historically the Trolley District was Ogden’s primary residential community.  The neighborhood was connected to downtown via a series of streetcars that ran East-West along 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th streets, and the synergy between the neighborhood and the downtown resulted in a vibrant City overall.  What role do you feel the revitalization of the Trolley District plays in the overall revitalization of the City of Ogden?

I think the renovation of homes in that area has had a tremendous effect on the entire city. I would like to see the revitalization not only continue, but expand. 

How would you support community efforts to promote and enhance the Trolley District?

As a Realtor who loves Ogden and has sold homes in that neighborhood to my friends, I will continue to promote and sell the area. I will support efforts to speed up the renovation process.

2.  Currently Ogden City, in cooperation with UTA, UDOT, and other stakeholders, is undertaking a formal study of alternative alignments for an improved transit system (probably a streetcar) between downtown and WSU.  Some of the proposed alignments would pass through the heart of the Trolley District and then continue south along Harrison Blvd., while other options would go south along Washington and then east on 30th or 36th, bypassing most of the historic Trolley District.  What are your views on the trade-offs among the various alignments?

I would want input from residents in the area to learn what they want, and what their preferences are. 

Given the trade-offs and challenges, do you have a preference at this time?

At this time, no.

3.  Also relating to transportation issues, UDOT’s current long-range transportation plan calls for the expansion of Harrison Boulevard to 7-lanes.  How do you think such expansion would impact communities along Harrison, including the Trolley District?

I think widening Harrison would be detrimental to those neighborhoods, both residential and commercial. We would definitely need the residents' input on that.

Would you be an advocate for area neighbors in generating more sustainable and equitable solutions for Harrison?

Yes. 

How would you approach the issue with the community and the associated public agencies?

We'd need to look at all options - a few of which could be street cars, trolleys or propane powered buses.

4.  Are there any other current issues that you think may have lasting impacts on the Trolley District, that area residents should be aware of?

At this point, I am not aware of all the issues effecting each part of the city; however, when elected, I plan to study all the issues and do what's right for Ogden and its citizens.