Historic Changes Coming to Kansas City Streetcar Route
Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as the KC Streetcar Authority recently announced some thrilling updates to the streetcar service, marking a significant milestone in the city’s transportation history. For the first time since the 1950s, the streetcar is set to travel south of Pershing Road! While this doesn’t mean riders will immediately be heading south, the streetcar will now pass through the lively Main Street intersection before stopping at a shiny, new stop located just across from the iconic Union Station.
A Glimpse into the Past and Future
This moment is not just about the present; it’s also about reconnecting with a part of Kansas City’s history. Donna Mandelbaum, the Communications Director for the KC Streetcar Authority, shared her enthusiasm, saying, “It’s been interesting to dig up a part of history and then we’re kind of bringing it back with the same sort of technology.”
The construction team, known as the KC Streetcar Constructors, has been hard at work over the past few weeks, completing essential track tie-in work ahead of schedule. Originally expected to take four weeks, this impressive feat was wrapped up in just three weeks! Along with the track work, they’ve been busy ensuring the necessary infrastructure is in place to support this expanded route.
First-Time Riders Experience Kansas City from a New Perspective
One visitor to Kansas City, attending a conference, decided to hop on the streetcar for the very first time. Shine Tarbucco was amazed at how accessible and free the service was, saying, “Seeing stuff like this in a city that is not like Chicago or New York… is kind of mind-blowing for me.” For many conference-goers, the streetcar offers a chance to explore the city in a way that wouldn’t be possible otherwise.
Joining him was Edward Velazquez Reynald, who echoed Tarbucco’s sentiments. “It’s more pedestrian-friendly because public transit means you are able to walk a lot more and explore the city in a way that you otherwise won’t,” he said. This new route promises to enhance pedestrian traffic and make discovering Kansas City’s vibrant neighborhoods even more enjoyable.
New Traffic Signal Communication Systems
As part of this expansion, the streetcar team is focused on developing a robust communication system between streetlights and traffic signals. “If somebody is pressing the pedestrian button, how does that communicate with the train signal?” Mandelbaum explained. This thoughtful approach ensures everyone, whether driving, on the streetcar, or walking, can enjoy a safe and efficient transit experience.
Excitement in the Air!
Not only is the streetcar team working on the tracks, but they are also dedicated to training operators. As none had previously traveled south of Pershing Road before this week, the anticipation was palpable. Mandelbaum recounts her own experience driving through the intersection for the first time, describing it as “emotional” and a true historical moment.
“We felt like we made history with that,” she said, adding that they are excited for everyone else to share in this newly created journey. With a whopping 98% of the track construction complete, the future looks bright. By year’s end, three additional streetcars are expected to join the current fleet!
Looking Ahead
So, what’s next? Plenty of big news is headed Kansas City’s way as new streetcars are set to roll out soon. According to Mandelbaum, one of the new streetcars will look similar to the ones currently operating but will have a different and enhanced passenger experience. It will feature improved signage and audio announcements to keep everyone informed about their travels.
As Kansas City gears up for these exciting developments, it’s clear that the city’s public transit system is flourishing, creating a brighter, more connected future for its residents and visitors alike!
