Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City officials are getting ready to move from educating residents about the new transit-only lane restrictions on Main Street to enforcing them. These rules will go into effect on Sunday, February 1. The lanes were added to the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension to help streetcars and buses move efficiently through one of the city’s busiest areas.
City officials claim that the first phase was mostly about letting drivers get adjusted to the new layout. Over the past few weeks, signs, pavement markings, and public messages have made it clear when and how drivers can lawfully enter the transit-only lanes. That time of grace is almost over.
Streetcars and RideKC buses can only use transit-only lanes, with a few exceptions. Drivers can briefly use the lane to get to a driveway, parking area, business entrance, turn lane, or designated crossing. You can’t drive straight through the lane or stop and park in it.
To help drivers understand better, the city made a short animated video that shows them what to do in various situations on Main Street. The video shows where limited access is allowed and points out common mistakes that could get you a ticket once enforcement starts.
Jason Waldron, the transportation director, stated that the lanes are very important for making sure that transit service is safe and reliable.
“These lanes are an important part of keeping transit moving safely and predictably,” said Jason Waldron, Transportation Director for Kansas City. “Clear markings and signage are in place, and the video helps show exactly how drivers can navigate the corridor correctly.”
Starting on February 1, drivers who break the laws could get a fine of at least $50 and have their cars towed, as the city says they can. The Kansas City Police Department will always enforce the law.
The Main Street Extension extends 3.5 miles from Union Station to the University of Missouri–Kansas City. More than 60% of the route runs in exclusive or semi-exclusive transit-only lanes. This design is meant to cut down on conflicts and speed up travel times while making the roads safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
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Before the law goes into effect, city authorities tell drivers to watch the explanatory video and go to Kansas City’s traffic information website.
