What began as a novel initiative to acclimate incoming Caterpillar employees to the vibrant landscape of Downtown Tucson has rapidly evolved into a cornerstone of local tourism and historical exploration: the Tucson Trolley Tours. Initially conceived to dispel misconceptions about the city’s urban core, these unique expeditions aimed to showcase the true potential and burgeoning opportunities within Arizona’s second-largest city.
In the wake of heavy-equipment manufacturer Caterpillar’s announcement to establish a regional division west of downtown, a curious challenge emerged. Many executives and engineers, while scouting housing, were advised to bypass the downtown area. Recognizing this critical gap in information, a trio of local real estate professionals – two brokers and a mortgage banker – took it upon themselves to present an accurate and appealing vision of the downtown renaissance.
Their initial response was to curate a series of targeted tours. These excursions specifically highlighted future residential projects that were then mere concepts, aiming to educate real estate agents themselves who might not have been fully abreast of the ambitious downtown revitalization plans. This proactive approach laid the groundwork for what would soon become a much broader appeal.
The burgeoning interest led to a significant milestone last year when Tucson Trolley acquired a spacious 22-passenger bus. This expansion marked a pivotal moment, transforming what began as a niche informational service into a widely popular and accessible way for residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural tapestry, notably its stunning murals spread across the downtown and Fourth Avenue areas.
Demonstrating robust business growth, the tours have since expanded their reach considerably beyond the downtown core. Routes now encompass the historic west side, offer panoramic views from “A” Mountain, and wind through the ancient presidio, offering insightful narratives on sites ranging from old Chinese grocery stores to the historic courthouse, the solemn Jan. 8 memorial, and the poignant USS Arizona memorial on campus, culminating at iconic city landmarks.
Driven by this sustained success and increasing demand, Tom Heath, a co-owner of Tucson Trolley Tours, has unveiled ambitious plans for further expansion. The enterprise intends to acquire a second bus and significantly augment its tour schedule, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing local tourism. A key aspect of this strategic expansion includes extending the route onto the Sunshine Mile, a revitalized section of East Broadway from Euclid Avenue to Country Club Road, which has undergone substantial renovation.
To further facilitate accessibility and enhance the customer experience, Tucson Trolley will also establish a new kiosk at 245 E. Congress Street. This guest hub will serve as a central point for ticket sales and information, set to open in conjunction with significant local events this fall, solidifying the company’s presence in the heart of Downtown Tucson.
The journey of Tucson Trolley Tours from a targeted educational tool to a flourishing enterprise has garnered notable recognition. Board chairman Fletcher McCusker aptly remarked to Heath, “You’ve managed to turn a business into a hobby,” acknowledging his profound dedication and deeming him a true “ambassador” of the downtown area. This spirit of community engagement and visionary business growth continues to define the company’s trajectory in Arizona.
The continued success and forward-looking strategies of Tucson Trolley Tours not only highlight a thriving local business but also underscore the ongoing revitalization and growing appeal of Downtown Tucson as a vibrant cultural and historical destination. Their commitment to expanding their offerings promises even greater opportunities for discovery for both residents and visitors.
