march / april 2012

in the news:

Kansas City pursues funding for streetcar on Main Street

Photo illustration of streetcar service operating on Main Street

Electric streetcars used to be the chief type of public transit in many American cities. Most systems were dismantled in the mid-20th century and replaced with buses, but today they are making a comeback. Several dozen streetcar systems are either being planned or expanded across the country, including in Kansas City. [More] 

a la mode:

Metro makes changes to 51X, 56X and 296 bus routes

Metro riders take note: changes on more than 50 routes will be phased in this year, starting with 51X-Ward Parkway Express, 56X-Red Bridge Express and 296-Bannister/Hillcrest MetroFlex in April. The changes are the result of a comprehensive study the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority conducted to offer improved and more effective transit service. [More]

commuter profile:

Corporate Woods office embraces bicycling

Brian Symons, Jeremy Haynes, Brian Hanks and Mike Mason bike to work

A small engineering firm in Overland Park is challenging conventional thinking on commuting. Foth employees began considering alternatives to driving alone a few years ago when they joined RideShare’s Green Commute Challenge. Soon it became clear that bicycling was a good option for most of them, and today four out of five employees bicycle to work as often as they can. [More]

in the news:

Study continues evaluation of transit options for I-70 and Rock Island corridors

Do you regularly travel major corridors in eastern Jackson County? A study underway since last year is looking at ways to expand transit service for commuters, connecting downtown Kansas City, Mo., to growing suburban communities along Interstate 70 and the Rock Island Corridor (roughly along Missouri Highway 350). Stop by open houses April 24–26 to learn how the short list of options is stacking up in terms of cost, impacts to the community and ridership potential. [More]

how to:

Cycling and driving tips to stay safe this spring

www.pedbikeimages.org / Laura Sandt

When the weather turns warmer in the spring, many people like to get outdoors and ride their bicycles. It is important to observe safety guidelines when bicycles and vehicles share the road. Here are tips for drivers and bicyclists to follow that can help keep everyone safe on the road. [More]