Photo courtesy of lee.gov. The Lee Board of County Commissioners approved two grant agreements with the Florida Department of Transportation Tuesday to provide funds for the downtown Fort Myers trolley as well as the seasonal Fort Myers Beach tram services. The grant agreements require at least a 50% local match. The tram service grant of $998,573 was matched by $308,928 from tourist development taxes on short-term lodgings and $689,645 from LeeTran’s budget. The service is intended to “increase ridership and bolster economic development on the north end of Estero Island by providing reliable services,” according to the Lee County Government communications director. The service is also helpful to the environment, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating traffic congestion and reducing single-occupancy vehicles on the roads. The LeeTran Trolley Circulator grant of $1,212,725 will be matched in total by the City of Fort Myers/Fort Myers CRA. The trolley will provide a fare-free and reliable connection between North Fort Myers and downtown Fort Myers. The service would increase access to the downtown area while also helping the environment. To learn more about this event and about the services offered by LeeTran, or for schedule and fare information, call 239-LEE-TRAN or visit www.RideLeeTran.com.