Passengers can board The Tide, Virginia's Hampton Roads Transit light-rail line, an estimated $338 million dollar project, Aug. 19 for a free three-day preview before regular paid service begins Aug. 22.

The Tide had three previously missed opening dates. The latest delay in opening the system was because of issues with getting the safety signal and communications systems ordered, installed and tested.

Between now and August, HRT must still complete light-rail operator certifications; monitor and adjust signaling and timing systems that balance rail operations and traffic flow on city streets and finish construction of the three park-and-ride lots at Ballentine Boulevard, Military Highway and Newtown Road.

According to a report in The Viginia-Pilot, The tide is $106 million over budget but HRT President and CEO Philip Shucet said he still does not plan on spending all of the budgeted $338 million to complete the project. He said he doesn't anticipate dipping into the $10 million contingency fund and believes he could possibly save more.

The project funds are comprised of $196 million from federal sources, $71 million from the state and $71 million from the city.