The KC Streetcar, by all accounts, has been a resounding success.

Ridership is higher than anyone expected:

  • On August 17, 2016, the KC Streetcar exceeded the 700,000 ridership total

And we’re garnering national attention:

As a regular rider, I can attest that it is doing great things for our city. As a Kansas Citian, I have:

  • Gotten to know my neighbors better
  • Met new Kansas Citians
  • Become more active
  • Interacted with folks I wouldn’t have otherwise
  • Had the opportunity to welcome people to our city
  • Explored new areas of the city
  • Supported more local businesses

If you aren’t familiar, here is the gist about the KC Streetcar:

  • The system runs 2.2 miles from the River Market to Union Station
  • It has 16 stops, approximately 2-3 blocks apart
  • There are 4 streetcars, named 801, 802, 803, and 804
    • Fun fact: The Kansas City Public Service managed our streetcar system more than 50 years ago. Their vehicles arrived in three batches: the 501-585 series; the 701-724 series; and the 725-799 series. The new streetcars pick up the numbering where it left off.
  • It is bike, stroller and wheelchair-friendly (board the middle car)
  • It is free to ride
  • It operates daily and is open
    • Monday-Thursday: 6:00am-midnight
    • Friday: 6:00am-2:00am
    • Saturday: 7:00am-2:00am
    • Sunday: 7:00am-10:00pm

Riding it for the first time? Here are some tips:

  • The streetcars come by every 10-15 minutes
  • You must push the Open button on the door to open it (it won’t open automatically)
  • You can only stop and disembark at designated stops
  • When you want to stop, you must push the Stop button (otherwise the Streetcar could cruise right by your stop)
  • Be prepared to stand and hold on, you’re in a moving vehicle after all (hold on to your children too!)
  • Everyone must disembark at Union Station
  • Say hello to folks (I know, not really cool for public transport, but it’s more interesting!)
  • Bring your patience and sense of adventure (you never know what you might see!)

Learn more and find all sorts of tips and facts on the KC Streetcar website.