About this project

In forward-thinking cities across the nation, a “streetcar renaissance” is underway. For good reason: modern streetcars are uniquely suited to serve and encourage higher density, mixed use development with less impact than alternative systems. Modern streetcars are:

• More affordable than light rail
• Easier to integrate into existing streetscapes
• Well understood to promote more development and street life

Unlike their light rail and vintage counterparts, modern streetcars pose minimal disruption to existing businesses, residents, and traffic throughout construction and operation. Yet they provide high-quality transit service that promotes compact, walkable, higher-density development.

Despite the nationwide renaissance, traditionally relied upon federal funding for transit is drying up. Does this mean Kansas City should give up on its decade-long dream of rebuilding our once great metro-wide fixed rail network? Or is it time we roll up our sleeves and make it happen?

This crowdfunding campaign is your chance to help make the streetcar a reality. At present, funding for the streetcar is proposed to come from tax increases on businesses and property owners within just a few blocks of the line. While it’s true that nearby businesses and buildings will gain the most from the new amenity, the entire metro region will benefit from the project… IF it happens.

In late Fall of 2012, voters will decide whether or not to accept the proposed rate hikes. Approval is much likelier to happen if we can turn an obligation affecting a few Kansas Citians into an opportunity open to anyone in the world. Contributing to this campaign directly reduces assessment hikes, by reducing the amount of money the city will need to borrow in order to pay for the streetcar system. Every dollar raised up front is another dollar that Kansas City won’t need to borrow, increasing the likelihood of success at the ballot and saving money on interest costs.

So get on board! Show your love of KC, or transit, or both. It’s our time for a better KC and it can only happen with you!

Check out the perks

To your right, you’ll see an area containing various dollar amounts, with various “perks” associated with each. As a small thank you for your contribution, you will receive the perks corresponding to the amount you contribute (unless you deliberately choose not to receive anything).

Note that the following examples are concepts only – actual appearance will vary.

Your name on the streetcar’s website

This is really a “twofer” – you get your name on THIS website (unless you choose to remain anonymous) AND you get your name on the streetcar’s website when it is complete. How sweet is that?

“I Helped Make It Happen” Sticker

Your choice of awesome sticker to show your contribution. 4″ × 4″ with multiple designs to choose from. Here are two examples:

As seen in the wild:

“I Helped Make It Happen” Tee / Tote

You’ll be able to show off your contribution AND carry groceries when riding the streetcar.

“I Helped Make It Happen” Ball cap

Streetcar “Pixels”

A visible reminder of Kansas City’s willingness to think creatively in order to make this project happen. The cars will be wrapped in a special “pixel” collage of messages from backers. The illustrations below show the idea, but the real collage will be made of individual messages, composed in partnership with a local artist.

Choose from three sizes ranging from affordable to distinguished:

1. 3″ × 3″ – (about the size of a baseball) Your personal message up to 140 characters and your choice of background color
2. 6″ × 6″ – Your personal message and background color OR logo
3. 12″ × 12″ – Your personal message and background color OR logo

Note: Illustrations are conceptual. Actual designs and appearances will vary.