Pacific Electric Interurban Service Begins

The Pacific Electric Railway's initial Pasadena line opened on July 14, 1903, using advanced electric multiple-unit cars capable of high speeds on dedicated rights-of-way. This event accelerated suburban growth around Los Angeles by connecting downtown to foothill communities. Huntington's vision combined real estate development with rail infrastructure, creating the largest interurban system in the world at its peak. Engineering challenges included steep grades and street running segments, solved with powerful General Electric motors. The service carried thousands of passengers daily and shaped the region's transportation patterns until the mid-20th century.