Local leaders gathered Friday, August 15. Community members joined them to mark the start of major improvements to the 7th Street transit corridor. The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas (UG) collaborated with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA). They hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at the 7th and Minnesota Transit Center. This event set the stage for $1.64 million in upgrades.
The project will bring a modernized transit experience to riders with improvements stretching across three major sections of 7th Street:
- North Segment – Minnesota Avenue to Pacific Avenue
- Central Segment – Kansas Avenue to Cheyenne Avenue
- South Segment – Rainbow Boulevard from Southwest Boulevard to West 43rd Street
Planned upgrades include:
- Five real-time arrival signs at the 7th & Minnesota Transit Center
- A new security camera at the transit hub
- 25 upgraded bus stops
- 10 bus shelters with added amenities
- 1,300 linear feet of new sidewalk, including ADA-accessible improvements
Mayor Tyrone Garner tied the project to broader goals of equity and opportunity. “$1.64 million in transit improvements is more than just a construction project: it reflects positive progress in our efforts to facilitate an improved quality of life,” he said, noting that better connections to jobs, education, and healthcare were central to his vision for the city.
KCATA President and CEO Frank White III praised the collaboration. He highlighted the mix of federal and local funding that made the effort possible. “The investment will elevate the customer experience with greater reliability and a more pleasant waiting environment,” White said.
Friday’s event was emceed by KCATA Chief Operating Officer Chuck Ferguson and featured remarks from Mayor Garner, Commissioner Dr. Evelyn Hill. UG Assistant County Administrator Alan Howze also spoke. Transit Director Deasiray Bush provided remarks. Additionally, Jessica McCallop-McClellan, founder and president of Giving Hope and Help Inc., contributed to the discussion.
Guests also had the opportunity to view the newly completed “Connecting the Dottes” mural, which now brightens the transit corridor. Construction officially began Monday, August 18.
The UG and KCATA say riders can expect updates as the work progresses.
