Kansas City, Mo. resident David Johnson on Tuesday posted a video that he believes is the first weld of the city's new streetcar tracks. The video was taken just north of 16th and Main streets in the Crossroads.
The streetcar will eventually run down Main Street from Union Station to the River Market when it is completed, which is expected by mid-2015.
The streetcar line has been in the works for years. And the first weld is a milestone for supporters who fought through funding woes and legal challenges.
Phase I of the project only got going after voters passed two instrumental tax hikes in December 2012 following the rejection of a federal grant in early 2012.
The Kansas City council is currently looking at routes for Phase II of the project.
Now when you see these workers downtown, you will know what they're up to:
Kansas City was home to a thriving streetcar system during the first half of the 20th century. The line ceased operation in 1957 in favor of cheaper and more convenient modes of transportation, like buses and cars.
This short piece by Bill Crick, amateur filmmaker and Crick Camera Shop founder, shows the last days of the original Kansas City streetcar:
h/t: Reddit
