Today Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders announced that the County's transit plan has been delayed. This temporary delay is due to last minute problems gaining access to the railroads needed for commuter trains.
A 1% sales tax would have funded commuter rail, streetcar, more bus routes, plus regional trails and bike lane projects - including the final piece of the Katy Trail extension into heart of the city. This comprehensive, multi-modal transportation would be a game changer for Kansas City and position the region to thrive in the 21st century.
Plans to bring the Katy Trail into the heart of the metro area are picking up speed, and 2013 could be the year we see significant progress on one of BikeWalkKC's long-term visions for the region.
The Missouri General Assembly has passed enabling legation allowing the Kansas City region to consider a regional sales tax to fund new trails, greenways, and bike routes. A similar regional tax in St. Louis has funded significant progress in their trail and bike lane networks. House Bill 1504 allows the Jackson County Legislature to ask voters to approve a sales of one tenth of one percent.
The Star reports that 3 miles are complete and federal approval is progress for a change of plans that will make the trail even better once it's all finished.
The Missouri General Assembly has passed enabling legation allowing the Kansas City region to consider a regional sales tax to fund new trails, greenways, and bike routes. A similar regional tax in St. Louis has funded significant progress in their trail and bike lane networks. House Bill 1504 allows the Jackson County Legislature to ask voters to approve a sales of one tenth of one percent.
The Kansas City Star recently published an editorial supporting continued efforts to connect the Katy Trail to the heart of the metro area.