"I found out how much I loved it when the storm ran me away from here, " Avie says.

NPR: Long Desired, Streetcar Returns to New Orleans

Johnny Avie has been a New Orleans streetcar driver for 25 years.

NPR: Long Desired, Streetcar Returns to New Orleans

The defence lawyer for Avie Howell said there was no proof his client was anywhere near the hotel around the time of the killing.

BBC: Mullany Antigua murder trial: Insufficient proof claim

So, on mornings like this one, Avie has to click a button on the floor that drops sand on the tracks as the car goes along.

NPR: Long Desired, Streetcar Returns to New Orleans

Hot or cold, riders "love their streetcar, " Avie says.

NPR: Long Desired, Streetcar Returns to New Orleans

Residents are "glad we're back, " Avie says.

NPR: Long Desired, Streetcar Returns to New Orleans