Kansas City Approves Transit Funding

Voters in Kansas City “overwhelmingly approved” the renewal of a sales tax that funds the city’s  public transit system, reports Celisa Calacal for KCUR.

“Renewal of the transit tax means Kansas City consumers will continue to see a 0.375% sales tax on retail sales of property or services. Kansas City collects that money and then allocates it to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.” Officials say supporting public transit is important in part because the city will host some 2026 World Cup soccer games. 

Local tax revenue makes up almost one-third of the agency’s revenue. “Officials estimate the tax will bring in about $421 million over the next 10 years,” Calacal adds. An article in the Kansas City Star notes that thanks to the sales tax, the agency will be able to continue providing fare-free service “for the foreseeable future.”