WASHINGTON – The Arlington County Columbia Pike streetcar project has been a controversial one and now officials are reaching out to the community to get more support.

This week, the Arlington County Board said they would not allow a public vote on the line.

Officials have released a promotional video and informational posters about streetcars, saying they will add jobs and transportation options for the growing population.

But critics tell the Washington Post that buses are cheaper and can offer more flexible routes. They also argue streetcars would not make commutes faster because they would run in regular traffic lanes.

Officials are working on a plan to fund the entire $358 million project privately — instead of using federal dollars.

Meanwhile D.C. streetcar service along the H Street-Benning Road corridor has been delayed until late summer or fall.

Follow @WTOP on Twitter and on the WTOP Facebook page.