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.
Podcast
Talking Headways Podcast: Building a Culture of Transit Ridership
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog USA
‘Gateway’ Drug: Trump Is Holding the Second Avenue Subway Hostage
The president blocked funds for the Second Avenue Subway during the government shutdown in October — and the MTA has still not received the money, sources said.
‘Kavanaugh Stops’ Are Making Streets More Dangerous
In Minneapolis, ICE agents have killed more people than violent drivers so far in 2026, according to Minnesota's crash database.
A Few Legal Tweaks Could Unlock A Mother Lode of Housing Near Transit
It's time to help communities use federal financing to build housing near transit, a new bill argues.
Do Wednesday’s Headlines Dream of Electric Sheep?
It's OK if the computer writing federal transportation safety rules hallucinates a bit, right?
What’s A Transportation Reformer’s Role In the Fight Against ICE Violence?
Migrants and protestors are being killed in the streets by ICE agents. What should transportation reform advocates do?
Tuesday’s Headlines Become More Affordable
Cities can help residents cut their average $13,000 annual transportation costs.





