Streetcar stops: Union Hill is a hub for what's next
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Looking north toward downtown. Photo: Travis Meier/Axios
The second new streetcar stop south of Union Station is at the nexus of new developments — and a quick jaunt from Martini Corner.
The big picture: We're exploring the connectivity and rider experience of the KC Streetcar's Main Street Extension.
Next stop: Union Hill
What to expect: Riders step off at 31st Street just north of The Russell and Gates Bar-B-Q. Also, Wendy's.
- Martini Corner, a popular area of bars and restaurants around 31st and Gillham, is an eight-minute walk east. It's only two minutes by bus, but the wait — which can last up to 15 minutes — can result in a longer trip.
What they're saying: Tom Gerend, executive director of the KC Streetcar Authority, tells Axios the 31st Street bus route was "one of the influencing factors" for the streetcar stop at Union Hill.
- "It's one of their higher ridership routes," he added. "Fifteen minutes for Kansas City is great frequency."
Between the lines: Ride KC buses went fare-free in 2020, but Cindy Baker with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority tells Axios that fares will be reinstated in June 2026, with exceptions for low-income residents and those receiving social services.
- KCATA will award a contract for fare equipment in December.
Zoom out: While businesses and residents along Martini Corner and Gillham Road thrive, the northbound streetcar stop at Union Hill abuts the historic 1888 Tower building, which is now dilapidated and planned for demolition, the Kansas City Star reports.
- To the west, cranes tower above the anticipated ArriveKC apartments, a $130 million project expected to create 385 new market-rate apartments by next summer.
The intrigue: The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, which operates the Ride KC buses, approved a 15-year, 75% property tax exemption for ArriveKC in 2022 as part of its transit goals, the KC Business Journal reports.
- The project plans to update pedestrian and bike infrastructure, and KCATA touts its proximity to the streetcar and bus stop.
💭 Travis' thought bubble: From a rider's perspective, the Union Hill area is a mix of historic charm, neglect and wrecking-ball madness. The corridor has great potential for revitalization through density and connectivity — now it just has to happen.