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Traffic and the Big 12 Tournament: The fastest and cheapest routes

Posted at 9:34 PM, Mar 13, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-13 23:17:06-04

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Big 12 Tournament has tipped off and that means it's one of the busiest times for downtown Kansas City.

Thousands of college basketball fans pour into the Power and Light District, some looking for a place to park, others a quick way to get downtown.

41 Action News put several routes to the test.

Parking

Parking near the Sprint Center is convenient but the price varies depending on the lot.

The lot behind the Sprint Center costs $30 a session or $60 a day. It's cash only. The parking garage on Oak Street costs $25 for the day.

"We walked. Four minutes from where we parked and the parking was $20. I said that was worth the four minute walk," said Anthony Vallejo.

Another option is finding a street parking spot. Some of these spots, however, are a three-hour limit.

The city says there are approximately 40,000 parking spaces downtown.

Ride Sharing Services

Services like Uber and Z-Trip have designated drop-off and pick-up spots outside of the Sprint Center.

Costs vary depending on the time of day, demand and destination.

"At the end of the game I should have about 75 vehicles standing by for our great guests that are here visiting," said Robert Jackson, with Z-Trip.

Street Car

The KC Streetcar is another option. From Union Station to Power and Light it took less than 6 minutes.

However, you might have to park before hopping on board.

Parking at Union Station ranges from $5 to $12.

Other parking options are available, too.

Bus

RideKC is offering an all-day transit pass to let fans travel around Downtown.

These special all-day passes cost $3.00. The passes are available from March 13- March 16.

Three-day visitor passes are available for $8.00 at the KCATA offices at 1200 E. 18th Street.