It’s not often you have the opportunity to partake of something that is considered the world’s shortest or the world’s steepest, but in Dubuque, Iowa you can do both at the same time by riding the Fenelon Place Elevator (a.k.a. Incline or Funicular). It is also sometimes referred to as the Fourth Street Elevator.
On our recent trip across the center of the country, we stopped in Dubuque to experience this unique ride. A trip costs $2.00 one-way and $4.00 roundtrip per person. The ride provides the rider with grand views of historic downtown Dubuque and its scenic Mississippi River surroundings.
Operating in various incarnations for nearly 142 years, the two charming little cable cars are controlled by the station at the top of the hill and pass each other at the midpoint of the 189 foot climb/decent along a track that is a mere 296 feet in length. If you board as we did at the lower station, all you have to do is pull the bell cord and soon you’ll be on your way up the hill.
From a planner’s perspective, the Fenelon Place Funicular is an excellent transit option for those who prefer to walk or bike to work in Dubuque. Cities like Dubuque, Los Angeles, Johnstown, Chattanooga, and Pittsburgh which have such a system in place offer their residents an alternative versus the car to move about. More cities in the United States with steep elevation changes should consider establishing a funicular or incline to serve residents and visitors alike. One can think of places like Cincinnati; Denver; Duluth, Wheeling; Charleston, WV; Roanoke; Asheville; Deadwood; Rapid City; Birmingham; ski resort towns; and many other locations where a funicular could come in handy.
The Fenelon Place Funicular operates from April 1 to November 30 of each year and is well worth the visit for those who love historic transit systems, inclines, funiculars, cable cars, railways, or just a unique and fun experience.
Peace!
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