As part of KATs Clean Fuels Program and in response to downtown parking demands, KAT began a new Red Line Trolley Route, effective June 14, 2004.

This new route will operate from the Civic Coliseum to the northern end of the downtown, serving locations such as Market Square, TVA, and Gay Street. The Red Line will be in operation weekdays during morning and afternoon peak commute hours, and is intended primarily for downtown employees parking at the Civic Coliseum who take advantage of the city's Unparalleled Parking Program - an inexpensive parking option sponsored by the Central Business Improvement District, Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership, KAT, and the City's Department of Community and Neighborhood Services.

The route will operate using KAT's first hybrid-electric and propane-powered trolleys. These trolleys are part of KAT's overall Clean Fuels Program, which also includes propane-powered minibuses, hybrid-electric staff vehicles, and biodiesel. This will be the first time these electric trolleys will enter service in Knoxville.

"We are very excited to be beginning this electric hybrid trolley route," says Mark Hairr, KAT General Manager. "We are pleased that this new route not only enhances our Clean Fuels Program, but also serves a need for downtown employees. The trolley system has experienced phenomenal growth over the past several years, and we are hopeful this new Clean Fuels route will continue to address our downtown's transportation needs."

"KAT is being proactive in addressing air quality concerns in the Knoxville area by creating and tailoring routes that are convenient and accessible to residents, workers and visitors," said Mayor Bill Haslam. "KAT is also increasing available transportation options in a way that is environmentally friendly by using clean-fuel vehicles."

This experimental route is funded through a Congestion Mitigation/Air Quality (CMAQ) grant. Service will operate fare-free, weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., then from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. on a frequency of every 7 minutes.