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Bordeaux Trams
I visited Bordeaux in 2002, when the city was a huge building
lot as they struggled to install their new tram system. I
visited again in 2004, and the transformation was
astonishing. Controversially, the city decided to go for a new
hidden third rail system, as it was concerned to preserve the
aesthetic and architectural feel of the city by avoiding
overhead wires. This was not without problems (see the
the
ALSTOM Press Release
), but the resultant effect is
wonderful. The trams are very comfortable to ride, and run
quietly (even more quietly when the third rail system fails!)
and effortlessly through the city streets. I was very taken
with the overall design - but I have to admit, I still prefer
the look of the Lyons trams ...
Lyons Trams