Putting It on The Line

Series of articles and illustrations detailing the Kansas City Star's proposed plan for a light-rail system in Kansas City. Key features of the proposal include: 1) a short starter route (9.75 miles) extending from the Northland to the Country Club Plaza; 2) use of "modern streetcar" technology; and 3) funding through a new 1/4-cent sales tax and city parking fees. The estimated construction cost is $341 million.In November 2006, Kansas City voters approved a plan by light-rail proponent Clay Chastain, but city leaders criticized the plan as unworkable and underfunded. Since the election, several groups, including the city's transportation agency, have analyzed and discussed alternative light-rail plans for Kansas City.