Updates and outcomes from MARC's November Board meetings

Members of the Board heard from Tom Gerend, Kansas City Streetcar Authority executive director, who provided an update on the growing streetcar system. Since opening, the streetcar has provided 14 million passenger trips and sparked new development along the route. The KC Streetcar Main Street extension to UMKC is 89% complete, with the Riverfront extension estimated to be complete in early 2026. 

MARC is updating ConnectedKC 2050, the region’s long-range transportation plan. Revised every five years, the plan includes goals, strategies and prioritized transportation projects. Proposed updates to the plan include a new goal focused on housing and two strategies focused on digital equity and housing coordination. Local leaders and residents are encouraged to share input on the plan update by visiting connectedkc.org/update.

The MARC Budget and Work Plan guides agency activities and provides a clear picture of how revenues are allocated to achieve overarching policy goals. Board members reviewed a draft of the 2025 Budget and Work Plan and Revised 2024 Budget. MARC’s 2025 budgeted revenues are projected at $119,981,775 – with 72% being passed on to partners in the region. MARC staff shared key priorities across departments for 2025. The final budget and workplan will be presented at the December Board of Directors meeting.