Santo Domingo Skyline. Image from Wikipedia.
A quick look at some of the things that happened this week in the world of urban gondolas, cable cars and cable propelled transit:
Metrocable Announced in Caribbean (Santo Domingo)
Santo Domingo, the capital of Dominican Republic, has reportedly released tenders for a 5km, 4 station CPT line. This urban cable car will connect to the city’s Metro network and serve the residents living near the Ozama river. Once construction starts, officials estimate that the cable lift can be completed in 14 months.
Myanmar’s First Cable Car (Myanmar)
Progress is being made for what could be Myanmar’s first cable car. The proposed $20 million system links Mount Kyaiktiyo and a Buddhist pilgrimage site. This project is being spearheaded by the joint venture, SkyAsia, after it secured a 50 year build-operate-transfer contract from the government. Access to the top is currently limited to a ride on pickup trucks or a 4 hour hike.
Palm Springs Zip Line (California)
A proposal for a 550-foot zip line at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has sparked environmental concerns from several local groups. They question how noise and additional traffic generated by this new attraction will impact animal species, particularly the bighorn sheep. Tramway officials say that they will work closely with the city and local groups to develop the appropriate solutions.