Kansas City Streetcar marks two years of service

The 2.2-mile Kansas City Streetcar in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, has provided more than 4 million trips since its opening day two years ago.

Since the streetcar began operations, at least 20 new businesses have popped up along or near the Main Street route, Kansas City Streetcar Authority (KCSA) officials said in a press release.

More than $2.1 billion has been invested in the greater downtown Kansas City area since the streetcar opened.

"In two short years, downtown residents, employees, and visitors have embraced the KC Streetcar and have ridden at record numbers," said KCSA Executive Director Tom Gerend. "The transformation of downtown and the excitement its generated is nothing but remarkable."

To accommodate ridership growth, the KCSA has ordered two more streetcar vehicles to expand its existing four-vehicle fleet. The new units are slated to arrive next year.

The authority also plans to extend the streetcar route to the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the Berkeley Riverfront area.