Next Tuesday KCMO voters will decide whether or not to tax ourselves to build the first part of a regional light rail system. While not directly bicycle-related, anything that provides more transportation options is ultimately good for making the city more sustainable, livable, and competitive. There area also many opportunities to integrate bikes with the light rail system. Most cities allow bikes on trains, although not always during rush hour. Many cities also provide bike racks inside the trains. Finally, many cities also provide bike parking at train stations – including things like bike racks, bike lockers, or even special bike parking enclosures.
Here in KC, the light rail plan hasn’t be finalized enough to know how bicycles would be included. However, this statement from the agency that would operate the light rail system does prove some reassurance. There is no guarantee that if you vote for light rail you will get bike facilities, but the odds are very good.
Obviously, ATA has not yet set an official “policy” regarding bikes. However, let me share this. It would very much be my intent to allow bikes on trains as most systems do. When I lived in St. Louis, I often commuted by bike to train, so I embrace the opportunity. ATA has made a commitment to bicyclists and our entire fleet of fixed route services is now bicycle-rack equipped. A recent survey indicated that bikes were put on our racks over 200 times per day. I am also confident we will consider bike racks on the trains and bike racks and/or lockers at stations.
Mark Huffer, General Manager, KC Area Transportation Authority
