Streetcar service to a newly developed riverfront? Bus routes and bike lanes connecting downtown to Berkley Riverfront Park? This could be our future.
The KC Streetcar Authority (KCSA), in coordination with Port KC and the KCATA, selected the team led by Burns and McDonnell to conduct a Streetcar Riverfront Extension and Multi-Modal Feasibility Study to assess multi- modal transportation needs and a potential northern riverfront extension of the Kansas City Streetcar. In addition to Burns & McDonnell serving as the project lead, the team consists of members from WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff, Confluence, Dunbar Transportation Consulting, Hg Consult, Parson + Associates, and Polsinelli.
“The opportunity to better connect our city to our historic riverfront through streetcar and improved transit connections is a generational opportunity that could redefine Kansas City and downtown in the years to come. We are excited to partner with Port KC and the KCATA to evaluate these important opportunities,” said Tom Gerend, executive director of the Kansas City Streetcar Authority.
The primary study area for this effort extends from downtown Kansas City, Missouri, and the River Market north to the Missouri River and Berkley Riverfront Park. The study area is bounded on the west by the ASB Bridge and the BNSF railroad right-of-way and on the east by the Senator Kit Bond Bridge.
The project team will focus on evaluating the feasibility of potential streetcar alignments, multi-modal connectivity opportunities, economic development integration, costs estimates and potential financial implementation strategies
“Port KC looks forward to working with this team on our goal to look at the financial feasibility of connecting the streetcar and other transit options to Kansas City’s riverfront,” said Michael Collins, President & CEO of Port KC. “Providing a link between downtown and the riverfront ensures momentum will continue for Berkley Riverfront development, bringing with it more jobs, housing and retail options for the city.”
“This study is in direct alignment with KCATA’s transportation vision for the region,” said Robbie
Makinen, CEO and President of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. “Building an integrated,
multimodal network of transportation options that truly meet the needs and expectations of our region.”
The KCSA will directly manage the study and, along with our partners, monitor and guide the planning effort throughout its duration. The project management team consists of the KCSA, Port KC and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA).