Talking Headways Podcast: Building a Culture of Transit Ridership
This week's guest is Tom Gerend, executive director of the KC Streetcar Authority. Tom tells us about the challenges of creating the streetcar and a broader regional transit network, and explains the value capture mechanism that funds all of the KC Streetcar’s operations and maintenance.
By
Jeff Wood
9:30 AM PDT on May 25, 2018
This week’s guest is Tom Gerend, executive director of the KC Streetcar Authority. Tom tells us about the challenges of creating the streetcar and a broader regional transit network, and explains the value capture mechanism that funds all of the KC Streetcar’s operations and maintenance, as well as some of the project design and construction. Listen in and hear the reasons for some of the unusual policy decisions behind the KC Streetcar, including the fact that it’s free to ride.
More from Streetsblog California
Legislative Update: E-Bikes, Road Charge, Active Transportation, and More
We've added some new bills since last month's update in addition to all of the legislation that's moving (or was already defeated).
April 7, 2026
How To Push A Livable Streets Project Forward — Even in the Era of Federal Clawbacks
A livable streets superstar is launching a new organization to push forward some of America's most iconic sustainable streets projects — even if Congress is clawing back their funding
April 6, 2026
The Financial Costs of the Pedestrian Death Crisis Are Still Stratospheric
The human costs of the pedestrian death crisis are unacceptable even as deaths begin to fall. And the financial costs aren't any better.
April 5, 2026
Obit: Rod Diridon, Transit Leader and High-Speed Rail Advocate, Dies at 87
One of the Bay Area's transportation legends has passed
The post Obit: Rod Diridon, Transit Leader and High-Speed Rail Advocate, Dies at 87 appeared first on Streetsblog San Francisco.
April 4, 2026
Comments Are Temporarily Disabled
Streetsblog is in the process of migrating our commenting system. During this transition, commenting is temporarily unavailable.
Once the migration is complete, you will be able to log back in and will have full access to your comment history. We appreciate your patience and look forward to having you back in the conversation soon.