Caution: Hot Wires Incoming!
The installation of the arms and wires on the Overhead Catenary System (OCS) poles on the Main Street Extension are underway! This is an exciting project milestone that means we are getting closer to riding in 2025. These wires, arms and poles help power the KC Streetcar, transferring electricity from the five new traction power substations located along the extension.
These overhead wires are powered with more than 750v DC of electricity. DO NOT climb the poles or touch the wires in any way. These wires are extremely dangerous. Coming in contact with the wires can have fatal consequences.
Track Access Permit
For the safety of all, special permits are required for businesses and contractors who may perform work near OCS wires.
Any work planned within four feet of the streetcar tracks and within 10 feet of the OCS wires requires a Track Access Permit (TAP) prior to the start of work. The TAP must be completed online through CompassKC. Permits expire after seven days and a copy of the approved permit must be present and available on the worksite.
Contractors and employees performing the work are also required to go through Track Access Training, which is provided by the KC Streetcar Authority. Training provides an understanding of how to establish a work zone safely and results in a Two-Year Track Access Certifications for attendees. You must re-certify after two years by attending Track Access Training.
Complimentary training is held at 8 a.m. the first Wednesday of each month. These sessions are offered without charge to contractors, however trainings that take place outside of the first Wednesday of every month have a fee of $477.62. Classes are limited to 20 individuals per training.
To schedule your attendance at Track Access Training, please contact Wes McLaughlin at WMcLaughlin@htsi.com or 816-627-2616.
Stay safe in work zones. Please remember to:
Stay alert! Avoid distractions like your cellphone, eating, drinking, the radio, and talking with other passengers.
Follow detours. Follow all pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic detours where posted.
Stay out of work zones. Don’t walk, bike, drive or park within work zones.
Cross tracks at a 90-degree angle. The streetcar track grooves are slightly wider than a typical bike or scooter tire, meaning tires may become struck in the trackway.
Plan ahead and be patient. Be courteous of other road users and construction workers.
Stay cool… hot wires overhead. Do NOT climb the poles or touch the overhead wires in any way.
Learn more!
Check out our blog, “Have you ever wondered how the KC Streetcar is powered?”, to learn more about how the OCS poles and wires help carry electricity to power the streetcars!
View or download the Hot Wires and Track Access Permit Fact Sheet.