Transit Only Lanes
Click here for a fun “how to” video about Transit-Only Lanes.
The KC Streetcar Main Street Extension is a 3.5-mile extension between Union Station at Pershing Rd. and Main St., and UMKC at 51st & Brookside Blvd. Most of the extension is “curb” running with the streetcar on the outside lane.
Transit Only Lanes are strictly for public transit vehicles only, like streetcars and buses, and are identified with a combination of curbs/medians, pavement markings, and signage. Semi-exclusive lanes, or transition zones, are not divided from other lanes with barricades but are generally identified with pavement markings and signage. Access to driveways, businesses, and left-turns remain.
Click here for a fact sheet all about Transit-Only Lanes.
Transit-Only Lanes have multiple benefits such as:
- Improves efficiency and reliability of generational transit investment (for both streetcar and bus)
- Pushes automobile traffic off the curb and improves the pedestrian environment in the corridor
- Slows vehicular speeds and improves corridor safety
Enforcement
As per Kansas City, Missouri City Ordinance 250275, passed April 17, 2025, no person shall operate or park any motor vehicle in a designated transit-only lane except to access a driveway, building, alley, turn lane, parking space, or authorized crossing. Violations incur a fine of no less than $50 and the vehicle may be towed at the owner’s expense.
Click here for a complete roll plot map of the Main Street Extension with transit-only lane locations.
Transit-Only Lane Study
In late summer 2023, KCMO City Council (Council resolution 230625) directed the Main Street Extension project team to investigate additional opportunities for exclusive transit lanes. As a result of the original design and the further study for exclusive transit lanes, the KC Streetcar Main Street 3.5 mile Extension will have more than 60% of the route as either exclusive or semi-exclusive streetcar only lanes.
