The tracks that run through downtown Issaquah are one step closer to coming back to life, after the city approved about $525,000 to restore the railroad and a historic trolley car March 21.

The Issaquah Historical Society hopes to run the car on busy weekends and during festivals as a way to liven up downtown and to strengthen its connection to Gilman Village.

In the fall the city rejected a track restoration bid, deciding to open bids for the trolley at the same time.

Transit Now delayed until 2013

Issaquah’s City Council approved delaying the Route 200 Transit Now project, which would have offered a bus route that stretches from the business districts up into the Highlands.

The bus was scheduled to begin its modified route this September, when the city would also stop offering free fares.

The main reason for the delay was that Port Blakely Communities, a major sponsor for the project, didn’t think this year was a good time to begin the project.

The city now plans to begin the expanded service in February 2013. Council Member Tola Marts said he hoped the delay would give the city time to find a way to keep the free farebox.