Tuesday, August 12, 2008

More Middle of the Street Photos

In the first shot, we look down California Street, towards the Bay Bridge. If you look closely between the buildings, you can see part of the suspension section of the bridge.

The California Street Cable Car line is probably less well known than the Hyde-Powell line, but in a way is more fun because - depending on which way you're going - you find yourselves in the middle of a rousing downhill or uphill ride with terrific views. And because it's less well known, it's also a lot easier to get on than the more famous route.





The second shot was taken while standing on the waiting station for the vintage streetcars which now travel the length of Market Street, up to the Embarcadero, and along the Pier to Fisherman's Wharf.

In the distance you can see the Ferry building. This shot would not have been possible from 1958-1991, because the late and unlamented Embarcadero Freeway would have blocked the view of the building. As aficionados of the city are well aware, the much-hated freeway was torn down after suffering severe damage during the Loma Prieta earthquake in October 1989.

1 comment:

Tom the Dog said...

I was in the dorms at Berkeley during that quake! And hey, I missed that freeway, it was very convenient to many places I wanted to get to back then.

And you know, I've never ridden on a cable car. Not once! I need to go back and do some touristy things.