It’s pretty hard to miss a bright red trolley with shiny brass trim and, of course, that familiar clanging bell.

The Seward Trolley Car Co. has started providing a scheduled shuttle service during days that cruise ships dock in town and when Alaska Railroad passengers arrive and depart during the bustling summer season.

The company is operating one historic-style trolley, but offers modern motor coaches for additional transportation needs, said business owner Tom Tougas. The trolley makes regular, scheduled stops at Seward’s cruise ship dock and various locations around town, including Kawabe Park and the Alaska SeaLife Center.

Tougas said he decided to operate the trolley this year to fill a much-needed service.

Seward has had trolley service over the years, with varying degrees of success. When it was clear there would be no service this season, Tougas decided to make a trolley available. He also owns a trolley company in Juneau.

“I had three people stop me yesterday and tell me how excited they are to have the trolley operating,” Tougas said, just before Thursday’s open house and reception downtown. Locals got the opportunity to meet the drivers and climb aboard for a free ride.

The trolley was built by an Oregon company and it was operated in San Francisco for several years before being shipped to Juneau. Tougas said the local trolley is one of five he owns. The others are based in Juneau.

The passenger charge is $5 for a single ride for adults, $3 for children. The fare couldn’t be any lower and still provide a profit, Tougas said. Skyrocketing fuel prices have hit every industry, but none harder than transportation companies.

On the days that cruise ships dock, it is a common sight to see visitors afoot all over town. Tougas said his strategy is to encourage visitors to get off at the Kawabe Park stop, so they will then walk down Fourth Avenue through the central business district and visit various shops.

On the days that it operates, the trolley hits its stops about every 30 minutes. Stops on the regular route include the community library, the boat harbor and the waterfront park, near Ballaine Boulevard and Jefferson Street.

Seward Chamber of Commerce executive director Laura Cloward said the trolley service is welcome because it will make it easier for visitors to get around town.

“We think it is going to help all the businesses, because it improves access,” Cloward said. “The trolley will also help to highlight the core business district.”