JUNE 2009

Transportation Outlook open house gallery June 3

We use our region’s transportation system every day to connect to jobs, our families, entertainment, the things we buy and other basic needs. MARC will host an open house on June 3, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. to present ideas for how Transportation Outlook 2040 — the region's new long-range plan — could guide transportation investments for roadways, transit, bridges, bicycles, freight and more over the next 30 years. MARC is seeking public feedback about the kind of growth we want to plan for as a metro, and whether the priority goals and strategies identified take us in the right direction. Details ››

Celebrate National Trails Day on June 6

Communities around the region will celebrate National Trails Day 2009 on June 6, bringing together outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds to celebrate the natural heritage of the United States trail system. Local cities and municipalities plan to hold walking and biking activities, trail openings, family entertainment and educational seminars. Map of events ››

SAVE THE DATE: JULY 6-AUG. 28
Employer teams compete to reduce air pollution and save money in Green Commute Challenge

This summer employees at area companies will "go green and save green" — in a competition to reduce the number of miles driven and save money on their work trips. The Green Commute Challenge runs from July 6 through Aug. 28 and is sponsored by MARC's RideShare and Air Quality programs. Registration starts June 15. Details ››

Smart Moves transit implementation plans move forward

MARC, in partnership with local officials and the region’s transit providers, has been working towards an expanded regional transit system for years. MARC and the three main transit agencies are developing a two-phase implementation plan based on Smart Moves, Greater Kansas City’s vision for expanded and enhanced regional transit service. More ››

Transportation Improvement Program second quarter amendment approved; special amendment released

The MARC Board has approved Special Amendment 1 to the 2008–2012 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). MARC also released Special Amendment 2 for public review and comment, which includes North Oak Corridor streetscape improvements and economic recovery projects. Public comments will be accepted through June 8. The proposed amendment will be discussed at the TTPC meeting on June 23 at MARC. More ››

Action plan will help agencies link transportation and environmental planning

For over a year, MARC has worked with dozens of government and private sector stakeholders to develop a plan for making sure environmental issues factor in at all stages of the transportation planning process. In May, the MARC Board approved the group's Linking Environmental and Transportation Planning Action Plan, which recommends ways to improve links between the natural environment and local, regional and state transportation planning. More ››

JARC and New Freedom public transit and human services transportation projects recommended for funding

The MARC Board approved recommended funding for public transit and human services transportation projects through two Federal Transit Administration programs: Job Access and Reverse Commute and New Freedom. The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is the designated recipient for these program funds, and must now approve projects as well as administer the funding. Project lists ››

“Destination: Safe” Coalition recommends projects to receive FY 2010 funding

The “Destination: Safe” Coalition approved FY 2010 funding for transportation safety projects that aim to reduce fatalities and serious injuries in the region, based on high-priority areas identified in the Kansas City Regional Safety Blueprint. This includes $46,000 for Missouri projects and a recommendation to fund several Kansas projects. More ››

Bike Week events got commuters pedaling

During May, citizens were encouraged to leave their cars behind and use bicycles instead to help reduce traffic congestion, contribute to clean air and improve personal health. Bike Week is a regional effort involving local governments, area bicycle clubs and advocacy groups, planning agencies and bike-friendly businesses. This year's weeklong Car-Free Challenge registered 645 commuters who pledged to replace car trips with bicycling, walking and riding the bus. The event reduced miles driven by 21,731, saved 20,000 pounds of carbon dioxide, and saved 1,207 gallons of gasoline, worth $2,500. More about Bike Week ›› | Photos ››