KC Light Rail

Clay Chastain again wants light rail construction to start by 2009. Unfortunately, everyone holding the keys is dead set on following the federal process, which requires an analysis of alternatives. We actually already have an alternative — MAX, which is a lite version of bus rapid transit — so is this the best use of federal funding?

Dave Scott, president of the Urban Society, presented his opinion in yesterday's Kansas City Star of how to move forward with the approved ballot initiative approved by voters in November. Basically, Scott advocates scrapping the current plan and implementing a simplified initial spine from the Plaza to North Kansas City. Scott also makes an argument against focusing on bi-state or regional funding before moving forward (which is a complete contrast with the views espoused in the current mayoral race)… and if you believe the rhetoric being spewed by some Kansas legislators right now, that might not be such a bad idea.