Tom Gerend and KC Streetcar contribute billions to Kansas City’s economy

Transit Unplugged

We kicked off 2024 with an episode with Rep. Earl Blumenauer--https://transit-unplugged.captivate.fm/portland-streetcar--who could be credited for the modern streetcar boom in America, and this week we see how streetcars actually drive billions in economic development in Kansas City. Streetcars aren't just moving people and connecting the city in Kansas City, they are driving businesses like the aptly named Streetcar Grill which stands in what used to be a parking lot.

Tom Gerend has been part of the Kansas City streetcar project since the beginning, first as part of the planning organization that put the project in motion and now as Executive Director of KC Streetcar. For Tom, this streetcar network is his baby; it's a project that creates a legacy for all of Kansas City. But that's not where we start off the interview.

Historic Union Station in Kansas City was left to rot and ruin; almost demolished from disuse, but a ballot initiative brought it back to life and is now a landmark for the city. Union Station isn't just a transportation hub for the streetcar and Amtrak, it's a gathering place for the entire city. Tom took Paul for a tour of this architectural jewel and everything that's inside, including a model train exhibit and a science museum!

From Union Station, Tom takes Paul on the streetcar to tell him all about the network and its contributions to the city. From low floors that make it easy for anyone to board to keeping the system fare-free, KC Streetcar is fast becoming integral to the city.

Paul and Tom finish up at the Streetcar Grill and talk more about his career, the plans for the streetcar network, and the economic benefits it's brought to the city.

And if all of this sounds amazing, you can see it all on April 11th on Transit Unplugged TV! Make sure you subscribe on YouTube so you don't miss this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@transitunplugged

In case you missed last week's episode with KCATA CEO Frank White, give it a listen now to learn more about Kansas City and its transit system: https://transitunplugged.com/transit-unplugged-podcast/frank-white-iii-kcata-tod/

Additional music by Kemet the Phantom "Get Out" ft. The Pharoahs iTunes - https://goo.gl/JFk66P . Used with permission.

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Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo and these fine folks:

• Paul Comfort, host and producer
• Julie Gates, executive producer
• Tris Hussey, editor and writer
• Tatyana Mechkarova, social media

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00:00 Tom Gerend and KC Streetcar contribute billions to Kansas City's economy

00:03 Introduction from host Paul Comfort

00:21 Exploring the KC Streetcar with Tom Gerend

00:41 Union Station: A Historical Gem in Kansas City

01:09 On Board the KC Streetcar: A Ride Through Innovation

06:13 Expansion and Development: The Future of KC Streetcar

14:13 The No-Fare System: A Model for Urban Transit

22:43 At The Streetcar Grill

22:43 Economic Impact and Community Development

26:07 Reflecting on the Journey: Tom Gerend's Vision for Kansas City

27:15 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged