It's the final countdown. In just a few days, the KC Streetcar will be up and running for public use.
Here's what you need to know before it hits the road.
Safety by car
Need to park on the streetcar route? Arrive early in the day and it won't be a problem. But, later in the day it does get trickier. You're trying to parallel park with cars in front of and behind you while also trying to squeeze into the space between the white line and the curb. If you're even an inch over the line, you risk being towed. Trust us, it's an expensive mistake to make!
Tip 1 from @kcstreetcar. Check side mirrors b4 exiting ur car. @41ActionNews pic.twitter.com/3OxANnwazm
— Terra Hall (@TerraHall) April 29, 2016
Once you've parked, be sure to look behind you and in your side mirrors for traffic passing by. The last thing you want to do it open your door only to have it ripped off the hinges.
Safety by foot
When you're out walking around, stay alert and let your eyes and ears guide you. At each crosswalk you'll hear an announcement that lets you know when it's safe to cross. Also keep a look out for the timer.
Safety by bike (stroller, skateboard and scooter, too)
The tracks along the route are there even when the streetcar isn't.
Take extra care when cycling along the route, making sure to avoid the track. It's just wide enough to get your bicycle wheel stuck, which could be dangerous for you and those around you. And, if you need to go across the tracks, ride at a 90-degree-angle.
Tip 2 from @kcstreetcar. If you're on a bike, avoid the tracks so you don't get stuck. @41ActionNews pic.twitter.com/gkxoQCMAL1
— Terra Hall (@TerraHall) April 29, 2016
This advice also applies to wheelchairs, scooters, skateboards and any other wheeled mode of transportation with skinny wheels that could get stuck. KC Streetcar also recommends that you "always stop, look and listen before crossing the tracks and whenever possible, find alternate bike friendly streets and routes."
Additionally, KC Streetcar produced a series of four short but very helpful videos about staying safe in, on and around the streetcar. Watch them at http://kcstreetcar.org/how-to-ride/safety/
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Terra Hall can be reached at terra.hall@kshb.com.
