The KC Streetcar runs the tracks under its own power for the first time today (hotel, buying)

[kcmo]

Originally Posted by PA650

That could be a possibility. Let's hope it happens before that. If they create another special taxing district for potential streetcar expansion, I could see it passing in Midtown and beyond. I continually run into a younger demographic in that part of town, especially as more and more redevelopment occurs on Armour and Broadway.

Why not do a jackson county tax to get the commuter rails going and the streetcar expanded? I would do whatever can move it along the fastest though, so maybe another special taxing district is the way to go. I don't understand why people would be against extending it, but I'm sure there will be plenty.

[shindig]

Originally Posted by kcmo

Why not do a jackson county tax to get the commuter rails going and the streetcar expanded? I would do whatever can move it along the fastest though, so maybe another special taxing district is the way to go. I don't understand why people would be against extending it, but I'm sure there will be plenty.

The last vote failed because over 70% along the Troost line voted against it. The taxing jurisdiction along the Main line to the Plaza voted in favor by over 60%. I think the City plans to put it on the August '16 ballot, just for the extension of the Main route down to the Plaza/UMKC corridor.

[pacificwhim]

That makes sense. Most people don't believe a thing can work until it's a fait accompli. Once the streetcars are running and ridership is heavy, a lot of skeptics will jump the fence.

[PA650]

An informative video from the Kansas City Regional Transit Alliance regarding development around the streetcar line:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiPC...ature=youtu.be

[PDF]

Wow, this thing will be free to ride? Pretty interesting.

[kcmo]

Looks like people are not quite understanding that you can't park on the tracks and you need to give the streetcars room. I think eventually people will avoid driving main street in the CBD where it's only one lane each way. That should help keep the streetcars moving and make the corridor more pedestrian friendly.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpuB...ature=youtu.be








Here are some photos I took of the DC Streetcar getting blocked by a fed ex truck. SO I know DC is having similar problems.

[adebord]

What idiots.

Perhaps we should paint the street car tracks fluorescent yellow with no parking plastered everywhere.


As they become a regular sight I think problems will decrease.

[Mathguy]

I like the idea in general but as others mentioned....why not just use busses?

They'd be cheaper and more flexible I would think or am I missing something????

[kcmo]

Originally Posted by Mathguy

I like the idea in general but as others mentioned....why not just use busses?

They'd be cheaper and more flexible I would think or am I missing something????

Just google exactly what you just said and you will find many debates on it. There is a significant difference between buses and fixed rail when it comes to ridership, economic development etc, but most people that don't get how urban communities develop, gentrify and thrive won't be convinced of what pro rail people will say. Either you get it or you don't and I have this feeling you don't get it and that's fine.

Hopefully it will do well, but it's gong to take time. I hope KC people have some patience and allow the main street corridor develop. The city really needs to extend it to the plaza in order to really make it work though.

[shindig]

That corner of 13th and Main, where HnR Block is located drives me crazy. Freaking idiots stop there all the time to drop off their spouses, and many times the driver is the one getting dropped off, so the passenger casually walks around and gets in the drivers seat. I work at 1KCP and I always miss the green light because these idiots. Don't mean to come off as a jerk, but get freaking real people. I can't stand clueless people. Rant over...lol. I feel better now.