Public transit delivers value far beyond daily riders—fueling economic growth, expanding access and strengthening quality of life across entire regions. That message took center stage at Citizens for Modern Transit’s recent ‘Talking Transit’ forum, featuring behind-the-scenes insights from transit initiatives in Austin, Minneapolis–St. Paul and Kansas City. View the “Talking Transit” event in its entirety below or by visiting CMT’s YouTube page.
Tom Underwood of HDR opened the discussion with lessons from Austin’s Project Connect Program, which is planning for growth in a region expected to double from 2 million to 4 million residents by 2040. He described how the project evolved from two light-rail corridors totaling 20 miles to a single 10‑mile corridor and how public trust was maintained through transparency, clear communication and consistent outreach. Austin emphasized the “why” behind the changes, realistic timelines, how transit and highway funding differs and the mobility and economic benefits of the program. Ongoing engagement at bus stops, community events and neighborhood meetings, along with direct dialogue to nay-sayers, helped keep residents informed as plans shifted.
Ron Forrest of Metro Transit shared insights from the Twin Cities’ successful rollout of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), noting that outreach focused less on the label and more what riders value most—speed, reliability and a better overall experience. Credibility was key. Businesses, neighborhood leaders and riders helped tell the story, supported by data from surveys and outreach efforts. Clear education, strong branding and early, continuous engagement made BRT relevant to daily life. Timing and flexibility mattered.
“There is a huge opportunity for BRT to help make transit a first-choice mobility option,” Forrest said. “It’s taking off across the industry. It’s more cost-effective than light rail, flexible to scale and fast, reliable and easy to use.”
Tom Gerend of the KC Streetcar Authority closed the forum by outlining Kansas City’s “playbook.” He shared how the 2.2‑mile KC Streetcar, which broke ground in 2014 and launched in 2016, succeeded by positioning the system as the backbone of a broader regional transit network, proactively addressing misinformation and using performance data to reinforce progress and value. Gerend also emphasized the importance of tailoring strategies to different audiences and maintaining flexibility throughout the process.
During closing remarks, Underwood shared a quote from the Mayor of Portland during the development of that city’s streetcar: “A successful community project has heat, streets and political leadership.” The “heat” is grassroots support, “streets” reflect space to build and political leadership must be organized and aligned.
Referencing St. Louis’ Northside–Southside corridor, Underwood added, “St. Louis has the heat, streets and political leadership. It just needs to be executed.”
Check out CMT’s ‘Talking Transit’ Podcast and YouTube page to stay up to date on all things transit in the St. Louis region.
Learn more about transit expansion plans along the Northside-Southside Corridor on CMT’s website here.
