While D.C. is awaiting the first line of its long-planned streetcar system to begin passenger service, Arlington has pulled the plug on its project.

County Board Chair Jay Fisette made the announcement today, saying, “I have come to the conclusion that the only way to move forward together … is to discontinue the streetcar project.” The election of Republican-turned-Independent John Vihstadt, who opposed the streetcar project, to the board in November was seen as a referendum on the project.

Arlington planned on building a 7.4-mile streetcar system on Columbia Pike and through Crystal City. Support for the project waned after the price tag for the Columbia Pike segment increased to $333 million and $217 million for the Crystal City segment.

The first 2.4-mile segment of D.C.’s streetcar system is expected to open before the end of the year. The city has spent more than $160 million on the project so far.

Via Arlington County.