Streetcars began test runs along the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension in Kansas City, Mo., last week.
Several streetcars traveled south of Pershing Road on Main Street for approximately 400 feet, marking the historic moment. This was the first rail testing since construction started on the Main Street Extension, which, at its full length, is 3.5 miles long, from Pershing Road to 51st Street all along Main Street.
“Testing the new southbound tracks and crossover marks a significant milestone in our Main Street Extension project and is a testament to great work by the entire team,” Tom Gerend, KC Streetcar Authority executive director, said. “This is the first time streetcars have passed south of Pershing Road since 1957, making us one step closer to reconnecting Kansas City for the next generation.”
The Main Street Extension is currently not open for passenger service, as testing will continue over the next several weeks. During testing, drivers should stay alert for traffic changes, and pedestrians should use designated crosswalks.
Downtown streetcar service will be temporarily suspended for approximately three weeks beginning Sept. 30 to connect the existing downtown streetcar system to the northbound Main Street Extension tracks.
Other work includes adding track near the existing crossover north of Pershing Road, replacing expansion joints on the Main Street Viaduct, and removing the existing crossover north of Pershing Road.
Ride KC buses will run the streetcar route while KC Streetcar service is temporarily suspended.