KCATA Approves Service Improvement Plan For Metro Bus Service

(Kansas City, Mo. – January 31, 2012) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) Board of Commissioners has approved a plan to revamp Metro transit service in Kansas City, Mo.

The changes are the result of a Comprehensive Service Analysis (CSA), a study of transit service within Kansas City, Mo., with a focus on how to provide better service with existing resources. The resulting service improvements will not raise the cost of providing service. Metro and MAX service will be more convenient, easier to use, easier to understand, faster, and more direct. Transit service will better match the demand in areas throughout the city.

“These changes will bring more efficient transit service, and service that is easier to understand,” said KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer. “Through the study, we learned that most of our service was operating well. However, we have identified areas and times that could use more transit service, as well as some areas with more transit service than was necessary.”

Fifty-four routes will be affected by the changes. The changes will be phased in throughout 2012 on a quarterly basis in April, July and October. Twenty-one routes will provide more frequent service; less frequent service will be provided on six routes. Some routes were found to be operating too early or too late, so 11 routes will have longer hours of service and 20 routes will have shorter spans of service. When all the changes are implemented, The Metro expects that ridership may increase by as much as 8%, while overall operating costs should decrease by 2-3%.

Along with the changes to routes and schedules, KCATA will change route numbers and names for many routes in order to make the system easier to use and more directly reflect areas served by each route.

From August to the end of December 2011, the agency asked comments about the recommended changes. KCATA received more than 700 comments through online feedback, a phone comment line, and at seven public open houses. As a result of these comments, The Metro made changes to 22 of the initial recommendations. 

“We received excellent feedback from customers and stakeholders,” said Planning Director Danny O’Connor. “Hundreds of people looked closely at our proposed changes and told us how the new service would affect them.”

In addition to specific route changes, the overall way that KCATA plans and provides service is being refined. Service is focused on a network of key corridors, with improvements in reliability and directness. Duplicative services are being consolidated and service is expanded to new areas where needed. Schedules are being revised to be more consistent and easier for customers to remember, and MetroFlex will incorporate scheduled connections. Service will be expanded to the following areas: Hickman Mills, Ruskin Heights, Westside, Airport, New Mark, Gashland, Zona Rosa, and Tiffany Springs.

Route Changes Begin In April

The changes will be phased in throughout 2012. Routes marked as “Revised” on this page have been changed from the recommendations issued in Fall 2011, in response to feedback from customers. See our Maps and Schedules section for more detailed route information.

 

 

 

KCATA Releases Plan To Improve Efficiency Of Bus Routes, Control Costs

(Kansas City, Mo. – Sept. 8, 2011) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has released a draft plan to redesign transit service in Kansas City, Mo., in order to provide the most efficient service while holding the line on costs. Route changes for more than 50 routes serving Kansas City, Mo., are planned for phased implementation beginning in 2012.

These proposed changes are a result of an extensive Comprehensive Service Analysis (CSA), which began in 2010. During the CSA process, KCATA and Nelson Nygaard have studied the current market conditions and asked transit customers about their preferences for transit service.

“KCATA has experienced high levels of customer satisfaction with our current ridership, but we wanted to find ways to offer even better service with our existing level of resources,” said KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer. “The findings of the CSA will help us make transit easier to use, easier to understand, more convenient, faster, and more direct. We also expect the resulting changes will improve our efficiency and productivity.”

KCATA has published details about the potential route changes on their website. Changes range from increasing the area of service to reducing frequency to eliminating certain routes. The changes to Metro routes are intended to support a network of key corridors that form the foundation of The Metro system. New schedules will be designed to improve reliability, provide more direct service and better match demand. One of the goals of the CSA is to make riding transit more attractive by designing service that is more intuitive and rider-friendly.

Over the next several months KCATA will engage in an extensive public comment process on the proposed changes.  Public input will help shape and refine the final recommendations prior to implementation.

KCATA is receiving public comment about the proposed changes several ways:

• Online Form: www.kcata.org/metro2012
• Mail: KCATA, Planning Dept., 1200 E. 18th St., Kansas City, MO 64108
• Phone: 816-346-0300 (leave comment on prerecorded line)
• Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
• Public Meetings will be scheduled this fall. Meetings will be announced on the website and in passenger bulletins.

KCATA has also published on their website several other documents related to the CSA: a market analysis of the Kansas City transit market, a survey of rider preferences, and service guidelines that set standards for providing transit service.

Detour In Effect On Trolley Trail

Until further notice, a detour on the Trolley Track Trail between Troost and Woodland will be in effect. Pedestrians and bicyclists should use 85th Street instead of the trail.

In late 2010, a hole was discovered in the trail east of Troost and south of 85th Street. Over the last year, KCATA hired consultants and geologists to investigate the cause of the sink hole and repair it. These repairs have been completed, but concerns still remain. There is a larger area of underground mines along the trail between Woodland and Troost. There is no evidence of an imminent collapse. However, until the area can be more thoroughly assessed, KCATA has created a detour and closed this section of trail in the interest of public safety.

Barriers have been placed on the trail and signs will be installed to direct trail users to travel on the detour on 85th Street between Troost and Woodland.

Main St. MAX Offers More Frequent Service For Plaza Lighting

Buses in Plaza Area Reroute during Plaza Lights and in Crown Center during Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting

(Kansas City, Mo. – November 21, 2011) The Metro’s Main St. MAX bus rapid transit line will offer more frequent service for the Plaza Lights Ceremony on Thanksgiving, Nov. 24. From 4 - 11 p.m. MAX Orange Line buses will operate about every 15 minutes, instead of every 30 minutes.
Buses will run on a 15-minute frequency:

• Begin from 74th Terr. & Broadway at 4:05 p.m.
• Begin from 3rd & Grand Park-and-Ride at 3:50 p.m.
• Last northbound bus leaves the Plaza (47th & Main when Plaza MAX stop is closed due to traffic) at 11:02 p.m.
• Last southbound bus leaves the Plaza (47th & Main when Plaza MAX stop is closed due to traffic) at 11:27 p.m.

Throughout the rest of the day, MAX will operate its holiday schedule, which is every 30 minutes. The last regularly scheduled northbound bus leaves the Plaza at 12:17 a.m., the last regularly scheduled southbound bus leaves the Plaza at 11:42 p.m.
All other Metro routes will operate Sunday/Holiday schedules on Thanksgiving.

MAX, 51-Broadway and 57-South Oak Reroute On Nov. 24

Plaza service on Main St. MAX, 51-Broadway and 57-South Oak will reroute during the Plaza Lighting Ceremony. All of the reroutes will begin at 6 p.m. and end when traffic clears at approximately 11 p.m.
MAX: Southbound MAX will travel south on Main, past 47th Street to Main/Brookside. MAX will then go west on 49th and south on Main to resume the regular route. MAX will still make passenger stops south of 49th Street. The northbound route will travel the reverse - north on Main, east on 49th and north on Brookside. After 6 p.m., MAX will not make passenger stops at the northbound and southbound stations on J.C. Nichols Parkway. Customers will need to board and exit northbound and southbound MAX buses at 47th & Main.
51-Broadway: Southbound buses will travel the regular route to 45th & Roanoke Parkway, continue east to Belleview, south to 46th, west to Roanoke Parkway then north and west to resume the regular route. Buses will lay over on Roanoke Parkway between 45th and 46th streets before beginning the reverse northbound route.
57-South Oak: Southbound 57-South Oak will travel south on Main, past 47th Street to Main/Brookside. 57-South Oak will then go west on 51st Street, north on Main, east on 49th, north on Brookside to Main, and continue north. 57 buses that would travel to or from Waldo between 6 and 6:30 p.m. will use Ward Parkway between Main and Wornall, instead of 47th Street.

Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 25

On Friday, Nov. 25, routes that usually travel on Grand at Crown Center will be rerouted from 4 p.m. to midnight because of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The lighting ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m. Customers can call 816-221-0660 to find a nearby Metro bus stop.
Routes that will be affected by reroutes include Main St. MAX Orange Line, 28-Blue Ridge, 53-Armour-Swope Park, 54-Armour-Paseo, 55-Rockhill, 57-South Oak, 69X-Liberty Express, 123-23rd Street and 142-North Oak.
For further information, call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

KCATA Announces Distinguished Drivers

86 Metro Bus Operators ‘Distinguished’ As the Best in Safety and Customer Service

(Kansas City, Mo. – Oct. 6, 2011) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will honor 86 full- and part-time Metro bus operators during the 27th annual Distinguished Drivers Awards Ceremony on Thursday, Oct., 13. Two ceremonies will be held, one at 10 a.m. and one at 2 p.m. in the KCATA Trainmen’s Room, 1350 E. 17th St.

The 2011 award recipients met rigid criteria that emphasize driver safety, customer service, reliability and attendance in a 12-month period from July 1, 2010, to June 30, 2011. Metro operators are eligible for the honor if they have:

• No avoidable accidents
• No chargeable customer complaints
• No written violations or suspensions
• No missed assignments
• No more than one late arrival to work
• No more than eight non-vacation days off work

The Distinguished Drivers ceremony will honor operators in four categories; Meritorious Drivers are recognized for having met the high standards required of a distinguished driver 15 years. Grand Master Driver awards are presented to operators who have earned distinguished driver status 10 years, and the Master Driver recognition will be awarded to six operators earning five years as a distinguished driver. The remaining 80 operators earned distinguished driver status during the current program year, including four operators with more than 20 Distinguished Drivers awards: Dean Berkley, 24 years; Jerry Gardner, 21 years; James Horton, 24 years; and O.B. Jemerson, 25 years.

2011 Meritorious Drivers

• Robert Crane
• Charles Henderson

2011 Grand Master Drivers

• Gary Blaylock
• Roger Lopez

2011 Master Drivers

• Walter Akers
• Larry Burns
• Kenneth Lewis
• Ernest Smith
• Lavale Smith
• Jerome Williams

 

Final Open House to Present State Avenue Corridor Transit Improvements

Detailed design plans for the new State Avenue | Kansas City, Ks. (KCK) Connex transit corridor will be on display from 3:30 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011, at Saint Patrick Catholic Church in Parish Hall (1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, KS 66112). Access to Parish Hall is available off State Avenue west of 94th St.  The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and Unified Government Transit of Wyandotte County-Kansas City, Ks. (UGT), are holding this final open house to share the improvement plans with the community.

The meeting will allow area residents, businesses and commuters to review project exhibits and provide comment.  KCATA and UGT staff, along with the consultant design team, will be on hand to answer questions and discuss details. Displays will provide information about the overall design of the corridor plus specific plans for two new MetroCenters:  Midtown KCK (47th and State Ave.) and Downtown KCK (7th and Minnesota Ave.).  Both transit centers will be custom-built with improved passenger waiting areas and amenities, such as kiosks that provide real-time passenger information.  Other State Avenue | KCK Connex stop improvements include bus passenger shelters and benches, bus stop platforms, landscaping, environmentally friendly features and improved pedestrian connections.

KCATA and UGT have secured federal TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) funding to improve the existing Minnesota/State Avenue corridor. The improvements will be made along the transit route that begins at the 10th and Main MetroCenter in downtown Kansas City, Mo., travels through Downtown Kansas City, Ks., and ends at Village West at 109th and Parallel Parkway in Wyandotte County before returning in the opposite direction. The route will serve activity centers and neighborhoods along State and Minnesota avenues.  State Avenue | KCK Connex will be complete in 2013.

As a major east-west connection to the metropolitan area, State Avenue links Kansas City’s revitalized urban core to new development occurring farther west. In addition, with two new transit centers providing regional connections, improving State Avenue as a Connex route supports the regional vision for enhanced and expanded regional transit in Kansas City.  State Avenue | KCK Connex will improve transit facilities and continue to provide access to jobs, support economic development and provide efficient transportation.

Transit service is available on route 101 Minnesota/State Ave. It travels to State & 94th, which is one block north of the church. Service is available every half hour until approximately 7 p.m.

For information, log on to http://www.kcata.org or call 816-221-0660 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. For more information, visit the project web page at http://www.kcata.org or the TIGER web page at http://www.dot.gov/recovery/ost/faqs.htm.  If you require a sign language interpreter or other communication aids at the meeting, please call Keith Sanders, KCATA Project Manager, at (816) 346-0359, or UGT Interim Transit Manager Emerick Cross at 913-573-6784 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

MAX Offers More Frequent Service For WaterFire

Images: WSK_2005
(Kansas City, Mo. – October 11, 2011) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s Main St. MAX bus rapid transit line will offer more frequent service for WaterFire on Saturday, October 22, from 6 p.m. to midnight. MAX Orange Line buses will operate about every 15 minutes, instead of every 30 minutes.
MAX will run on a 15-minute frequency:
• Beginning from 74th Terr. & Broadway at 6:18 p.m.
• Beginning from 3rd & Grand Park-and-Ride at 6:07 p.m.
• Last northbound bus leaves the Plaza (47th & Main) at 12:49 p.m.
• Last southbound bus leaves the Plaza (47th & Main) at 12:17 p.m.
Throughout the rest of the day, MAX will operate its regular Saturday schedule.
Regular fare on MAX and Metro buses is $1.50.

About WaterFire
WaterFire Kansas City is a unique event featuring beautiful floating bonfires on Brush Creek, live music and dance performances, and great food from Plaza restaurants.  The event is on Ward Parkway, along Brush Creek, begins at dusk and runs until midnight.
Visit http://www.countryclubplaza.com/Events/WaterFire for more information about WaterFire Kansas City.
For more information about MAX and Metro service, call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Ozone Alert Issued for Wednesday, August 30

THE METRO OFFERS 75¢ BUS RIDES ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30

Wednesday, August 30, is an Ozone Alert! The three area transit agencies – The Metro, The JO and Unified Government Transit – are offering 75¢ bus rides to promote healthy air quality.

Motor vehicle emissions are the greatest contributor to ozone pollution in greater Kansas City. By riding the bus instead of driving, people can help reduce the amount of ozone in the air. The Metro offers 75¢ bus rides on all routes during all Ozone Alerts! between June 1 and September 30.

Ozone Alerts! are issued when ground-level ozone reaches high levels. These levels are dangerous for people with respiratory problems, as well as for healthy adults and children playing, working and exercising outdoors. Since automobiles produce more than one-third of the emissions associated with ground-level ozone, reducing driving is a good way to help improve air quality.

To plan the day’s commute by bus call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays. You can also visit http://www.kcata.org to look up routes and schedules or use use the Trip Planner.  The ozone forecast is available at (913) 383-7557 and http://www.marc.org; local weather forecasts feature a color-coded SkyCast, with alerts declared for Red and Orange days.

UMKC Students To Add The Metro To Their Education

(Kansas City, Mo. – August 18, 2011) University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) students will be able to use their new student IDs to ride MAX and the Metro, thanks to a new partnership between the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and the University.

Last spring, students and the University’s Board of Curators approved a transportation fee that creates an all-access transit pass on KCATA bus service.  All students are assessed a $14 fee per semester to fund the universal pass.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with UMKC,” said KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer. “The University’s Volker and Hospital Hill campuses are in great locations and are served by several routes, including the popular Main Street MAX and Troost MAX. This partnership is a great step forward for transit in our community.”

Classes start at UMKC on August 22, and KCATA plans several how-to-ride activities during the next week. On Friday, August 19, a MAX vehicle will be on display and available for tours at the Campus Move In Day near the student housing at 50th & Oak.  On Tuesday, August 23, and Wednesday, August 24, KCATA will bring a MAX bus to the Student Union Building. Students can learn how to find a route, use the bike racks on front of the bus, board the bus, swipe their pass, and get off the bus.

Additionally, UMKC residential advisors and the Activity and Program Council took a test ride before the start of classes to become familiar with the bus so they can help other students use the service.

MAX and Metro service will be an attractive alternative for students who want to save money, improve the environment, and not worry about fighting for a parking space on campus.

The Metro offers more than 70 routes and more than 30 park-and-rides throughout the Kansas City region.

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The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is the only public transportation agency serving the Greater Kansas City metropolitan region. Created in 1965 through special state legislative action in Missouri and Kansas, the ATA today operates a fleet of 300 Metro buses providing more than 52,000 customer trips per weekday.

Bridge Opening Means Faster Troost MAX Service

(Kansas City, Mo. – August 19, 2011) The Metro’s Troost MAX and 25-Troost are returning to their regular routes using the Troost Bridge over Brush Creek today. Now that buses will have a direct route, the MAX can offer even faster service. Since September 2010, buses rerouted on to Rockhill while the Troost Bridge was replaced.

Beginning next week, a trip on Troost MAX during the morning rush hour from 63rd & Troost to 11th & Grand in downtown would take just 26 minutes, instead of 32 minutes. New schedules will take effect Sunday, August 21. Printed schedules are available on buses and in schedule racks at area libraries, banks, service agencies and other businesses. New times are also posted online at http://www.kcata.org.

“We are pleased that we will be able to offer quicker, more direct service for our customers,” said KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer. “The new bridge also incorporates art elements that will be enjoyed by transit riders and pedestrians.”

The Troost Bridge is a project of the City of Kansas City, Mo. The new bridge offers improved safety for motorists and pedestrians. Construction will continue throughout the rest of the year, but with intermittent lane closures.

For Troost MAX and 25-Troost route and schedule information, customers can contact the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Ozone Alert Issued for Tuesday, August 2

THE METRO OFFERS 75¢ BUS RIDES ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 2

Tuesday, August 2, is an Ozone Alert! The three area transit agencies – The Metro, The JO and Unified Government Transit – are offering 75¢ bus rides to promote healthy air quality.

Motor vehicle emissions are the greatest contributor to ozone pollution in greater Kansas City. By riding the bus instead of driving, people can help reduce the amount of ozone in the air. The Metro offers 75¢ bus rides on all routes during all Ozone Alerts! between June 1 and September 30.

Ozone Alerts! are issued when ground-level ozone reaches high levels. These levels are dangerous for people with respiratory problems, as well as for healthy adults and children playing, working and exercising outdoors. Since automobiles produce more than one-third of the emissions associated with ground-level ozone, reducing driving is a good way to help improve air quality.

To plan the day’s commute by bus call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays. You can also visit http://www.kcata.org to look up routes and schedules or use use the Trip Planner.  The ozone forecast is available at (913) 383-7557 and http://www.marc.org; local weather forecasts feature a color-coded SkyCast, with alerts declared for Red and Orange days.

Ozone Alert Issued for Monday, August 1

THE METRO OFFERS 75¢ BUS RIDES ON MONDAY, AUGUST 1

Monday, August 1, is an Ozone Alert! The three area transit agencies – The Metro, The JO and Unified Government Transit – are offering 75¢ bus rides to promote healthy air quality.

Motor vehicle emissions are the greatest contributor to ozone pollution in greater Kansas City. By riding the bus instead of driving, people can help reduce the amount of ozone in the air. The Metro offers 75¢ bus rides on all routes during all Ozone Alerts! between June 1 and September 30.

Ozone Alerts! are issued when ground-level ozone reaches high levels. These levels are dangerous for people with respiratory problems, as well as for healthy adults and children playing, working and exercising outdoors. Since automobiles produce more than one-third of the emissions associated with ground-level ozone, reducing driving is a good way to help improve air quality.

To plan the day’s commute by bus call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays. You can also visit http://www.kcata.org to look up routes and schedules or use use the Trip Planner.  The ozone forecast is available at (913) 383-7557 and http://www.marc.org; local weather forecasts feature a color-coded SkyCast, with alerts declared for Red and Orange days.

Ozone Alert on Monday, July 18

THE METRO OFFERS 75¢ BUS RIDES ON MONDAY, JULY 18

Monday, July 18, is an Ozone Alert! The three area transit agencies – The Metro, The JO and Unified Government Transit – are offering 75¢ bus rides to promote healthy air quality. 

Motor vehicle emissions are the greatest contributor to ozone pollution in greater Kansas City. By riding the bus instead of driving, people can help reduce the amount of ozone in the air. The Metro offers 75¢ bus rides on all routes during all Ozone Alerts! between June 1 and September 30.

Ozone Alerts! are issued when ground-level ozone reaches high levels. These levels are dangerous for people with respiratory problems, as well as for healthy adults and children playing, working and exercising outdoors. Since automobiles produce more than one-third of the emissions associated with ground-level ozone, reducing driving is a good way to help improve air quality.

To plan the day’s commute by bus call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. You can also visit http://www.kcata.org to look up routes and schedules or use use the Trip Planner.  The ozone forecast is available at (913) 383-7557 and http://www.marc.org; local weather forecasts feature a color-coded SkyCast, with alerts declared for Red and Orange days.

 

Metro Service To Cooling Centers

Kansas City to enter Excessive Heat Warning City opens cooling centers, offers heat safety tips

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the region, including the City of Kansas City, Mo., beginning Friday, July 15 at 1 p.m. It will be in effect until Tuesday, July 19 at 7 p.m., with the possibility of an extension if high temperatures continue.

Temperatures are expected to rise into the mid-90s on Friday, July 15 and will continue to rise into the upper-90s to 100 on Sunday, July 17. Heat indices are forecast to be between 105-110 or higher and may last through the remainder of next week.

Residents seeking relief from the heat may go to the City of Kansas City, Mo.‘s community centers, many of which are served by Metro bus service.

Brush Creek Community Center : Routes 121 - 108 - 47 - 155
3801 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd., Sunday and Monday: closed, Tuesday and Wednesday: Noon to 9 p.m., Thursday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Garrison Community Center: Route 126
1124 E. 5th St.., Sunday and Monday: closed, Tuesday-Friday: 1 to 9 p.m., Saturday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gregg/Klice Community Center: Route 110 - 108 - 123 - 71
1600 John “Buck” O’Neil Way, Sunday: closed, Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hillcrest Community Center: Route 298
10401 Hillcrest Road, Sunday: closed , Monday-Thursday: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kansas City North Community Center: Route 133
3930 N.E. Antioch Road, Sunday: closed, Monday-Thursday: 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday: 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Line Creek Community Center: Route 136
5940 N.W. Waukomis Drive, Sunday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday-Friday: 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Marlborough Community Center: Route 54
8200 Paseo Blvd., Sunday and Monday: closed, Tuesday and Thursday: Noon to 9 p.m., Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.,  Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Southeast Community Center: Route 163
4201 E. 63rd St., Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday-Thursday: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tony Aguirre Community Center: Route 47 - 123 - 247
2050 W. Pennway Terrace, Sunday: closed, Monday-Friday: 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The City’s Health Department continues to assist the National Weather Service in determining heat-health notifications. The department also continues to coordinate communications among agencies involved with heat response, such as The Salvation Army and United Way 2-1-1. The department continues to monitor the emergency rooms as well as working the Jackson County Medical Examiner on suspected heat-related cases under investigation. 

The Health Department recommends that residents check on their neighbors and take precautions to protect themselves from the heat.

Eleven things you can do to protect your health during times of extreme heat:

1. Do not use a fan as your primary source of cooling.  If your home does not have air conditioning, please go to a public building every day for several hours.
2. Never leave children, pets or others alone in closed vehicles: within minutes, the temperature inside a car can reach over 140 degrees and this can kill within minutes.
3. If you have to work outside or in a non-air-conditioned workplace, take frequent breaks, rest in the shade or cooler environment, and drink plenty of water.
4. Check on your neighbors, friends and relatives at least twice a day (morning and night).
5. Avoid too much sunshine, and postpone outdoor activities and games.
6. Avoid extreme temperature changes, such as a taking a cool shower immediately after coming inside from hot temperatures.
7. Stay indoors as much as possible during the heat of the day in an air conditioned environment.
8. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a public building every day for several hours.
9. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, to reduce heat and save money.
10. Conserve electricity not needed to keep you cool.
11. Dress for the weather: wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing; this type of clothing reflects heat and helps maintain normal body temperature. If you have to be outside, cover as much skin as possible to avoid sunburn. Protect your face and head with a wide-brimmed hat.

For more information about heat-related illnesses, visit the CDC’s webpage about extreme heat: http://www.cdc.gov/Features/ExtremeHeat/.

Heat information also can be found on the Health Department’s web page (http://www.kcmo.org/health). For general information on signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, call the 3-1-1 Action Center at 311 or 816-513-1313. For heat information and community resources, call the Health Department’s community partner United Way 2-1-1, at 211 or 816-474-5112.

Earth Day Artwork Winners

KCATA Unveils 2011 Earth Day Artwork Competition Winners

(Kansas City, Mo. – June 2, 2011) Local students’ artwork will be showcased on Metro buses, creating an art gallery on wheels. In celebration of Earth Day, the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority invited area youth to compete for the chance to have their works displayed on city buses, using the theme “The Difference is Me.” The winning works were revealed on June 2 at Derrick Thomas Academy in Kansas City, Mo.

The winning artists were on hand for the recognition ceremony. A new hybrid electric MAX bus served as the gallery for this special art opening. After the ceremony, student had an opportunity to ride the new MAX bus. 

The winning submissions were created students from grades K to 9, and feature a range of environmental themes, from riding the bus to recycling.

Ten posters were selected to become interior bus signs. The art will be displayed on 300 Metro buses serving the metropolitan area.

Winning Students

Derrick Thomas Academy:
Meshia Rushing, 8th grade

Etienne McEwan, 9th grade

Carmen Ornelas, 8th grade

Britney Phillips, 3rd grade

Taylor Ashley

Amouria Johnson, 3rd grade

Jhonetta King, 9th grade

Carlen Johnson, 9th grade

KymQuisha Steen, 8th grade

Academie Lafayette:
Flannery Murphy, Kindergarten

The winners at Derrick Thomas Academy.

Open House for State Avenue Corridor Transit Improvements

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and the Unified Government of Wyandotte County-Kansas City, Ks. (UG), are holding an open house to discuss preliminary design plans for the Minnesota/State Avenue transit corridor.  The open house will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7, 2011, in the McCarthy Gallery Room of the Jack Reardon Convention Center (520 Minnesota Avenue) in Kansas City, Ks. 

The open house will allow area residents, businesses and commuters to review project exhibits and provide comment.  KCATA and UG staff, along with consultant design team members, will be on hand to answer questions and discuss issues and/or concerns. The display materials will show the design team’s progress to-date on the preliminary design of the overall corridor and the conceptual improvements planned for the 7th and Minnesota transit center. 

State Avenue Connex will include new transit centers at both 7th and Minnesota Avenue and at 47th and State Avenue (Indian Springs).  Both transit centers will be custom-built with improved passenger waiting areas and amenities such as real-time passenger information. Other State Avenue corridor Connex stop improvements include bus passenger shelters and benches, bus stop platforms, landscaping and environmentally friendly features, and improved pedestrian connections.

KCATA and UG have secured federal TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) funding to improve the existing Minnesota/State Avenue corridor. The improvements will be made along the transit route, beginning at the 10th and Main MetroCenter in downtown Kansas City, Mo., travel through Downtown Kansas City, Ks., and end at Village West at 109th and Parallel Parkway in Wyandotte County before returning in the opposite direction. The route will serve activity centers and neighborhoods along State and Minnesota avenues.  State Avenue Connex will be complete in 2013. 

Transit improvements are important to State Avenue because the route is a major east-west connection through the Kansas City metropolitan area.  State Avenue provides such connections by linking Kansas City’s revitalized urban core to new development occurring farther west. In addition, with two new transit centers providing regional connections, improving State Avenue as a Metro Connex route supports the regional vision for enhanced and expanded regional transit in Kansas City, described by Smart Moves, the regional transit vision.  State Avenue Connex will improve transit facilities and continue to provide access to jobs, support economic development and provide efficient transportation.

For more information, visit the project web page at http://www.kcata.org or the TIGER web page at http://www.dot.gov/recovery/ost/faqs.htm.  If you require a sign-language interpreter or other communication aids at the meeting, please call Keith Sanders, KCATA Project Manager at (816) 346-0359 or Interim Transit Manager Emerick Cross at 913-573-6784 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

Click on the map for a closer view.

KCATA Discontinues Its Online Trip Planner

Google Transit Tools Still Available

(Kansas City, Mo.—May 18, 2011) Effective June 10, 2011, The Metro will only offer the Google Transit trip planner on its website. The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s (KCATA) original Metro Trip Planner will be discontinued.
The Metro’s Trip Planner was created by KCATA using third-party software. The trip planner has become less reliable over the past few years, and customers have experienced service outages. Google Transit offers comparable trip planning with better reliability.
Google Transit is available at http://www.google.com/transit, and also in a mobile-friendly format at m.google.com/maps. Additionally, Google Transit offers:

• Maps with street view and satellite view available
• Ability to email a trip plan or copy a link to the trip plan
• Ability to search by business names
• Ability to select date and time of travel
• Ability to show connections between all transit agencies in the area, including Unified Government Transit, The JO and City of Lawrence Kansas Transit
• Availability for computers and smartphones

KCATA encourages customers to start using Google Transit now. Video tutorials about using Google Transit and about downloading Google Transit to a phone are available at http://www.kcata.org/maps_schedules/trip_planner/.

Additionally, KCATA makes its Google Transit feed available for software developers.  To learn more about this project, visit http://www.kcata.org/transit_data.

KCATA Responds To Brookings Institution Report

A Statement From Mark Huffer, General Manager of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority

The Brookings Institution’s recently released report “Missed Opportunity: Transit and Jobs in Metropolitan America” should be a clear call to regional leaders that transit needs to be an integral part of economic development and job access. In a ranking of the 100 largest metropolitan areas, Kansas City ranked 90th for transit coverage and job access.

While coverage and job access is good for those within The Metro service area, too much of the region is without transit access. This is particularly true in our suburbs. Too few citizens have a viable choice to ride transit, and too few jobs are located in those areas that have transit. Transit service is provided in a patchwork, with each local government determining how much transit service their citizens will have. Although The Metro operates in 10 different communities, only one (KCMO) has a dedicated revenue source to support public transit.

It is important to distinguish that the rating of the Brookings report is not about the quality of transit service available, it is about access to the service.  Their conclusion:  too few residents of our region have access to transit.  We could not agree more. 

The region needs to address these issues. One solution is a regional funding mechanism that would support transit for the Kansas City area, not just select cities. Transit service could then be provided in a more cohesive and comprehensive fashion. Realistic, sustainable land use policies should promote economic development patterns that allow local residents real transportation choices and access to jobs for which they have the skills. 

KCATA has made access to jobs a priority in decisions about service provision and planning.  We frequently hear from our customers how important our service is in getting them to work and in saving them money that is needed for housing, food, medical care and more.

Despite the challenges of providing transit in a low-density, road-heavy region, we continue to move forward and make improvements to transit in Kansas City.  We have created two MAX bus rapid transit lines, which provide fast, frequent service and upgraded, high-tech amenities. With help from a federal TIGER grant, The Unified Government of Kansas City, Kan., and Wyandotte County is improving transit access along State Avenue, building transit centers and improving amenities at transit stops. Johnson County is implementing similar improvements along Metcalf, Johnson Drive and Shawnee Mission Parkway. In Missouri, KCATA, Kansas City, Mo., and Independence, Mo., are improving transit access in key corridors.  The City of Kansas City, in partnership with KCATA, MARC, and Jackson County, is conducting an alternatives analysis that is generating excitement about the possibility of a streetcar line in downtown Kansas City.

The recommendation provided by the Brookings Institution rings true for our region: “These trends have three broad implications for leaders at the local, regional, state, and national levels. Transportation leaders should make access to jobs an explicit priority in their spending and service decisions, especially given the budget pressures they face. Metro leaders should coordinate strategies regarding land use, economic development, and housing with transit decisions in order to ensure that transit reaches more people and more jobs efficiently. And federal officials should collect and disseminate standardized transit data to enable public, private, and non-profit actors to make more informed decisions and ultimately maximize the benefits of transit for labor markets.”

The Brookings Institution report is available online and includes interactive mapping tools.

KCATA Adds All-Electric, Eco-Friendly Truck To Fleet

 
(Kansas City, Mo.—April 12, 2011) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) today dedicated its first all-electric maintenance vehicle and the 95th & Troost Park-and-Ride.
The Smith Electric Vehicle will be used to service and clean Troost MAX and Main St. MAX stations, along with other Metro stops. The 95th & Troost Park-and-Ride includes a charging station for the maintenance truck. KCATA expects to save more than $100,000 on fuel and maintenance over the life of the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 49 tons a year.
KCATA’s new bus rapid transit line, the Troost MAX Green Line, travels from downtown to 95th & Troost and along Bannister Road. Troost MAX made its debut January 1, 2011. The new Troost MAX route also brought Kansas City’s first hybrid-electric buses, the first pervious concrete parking lot in Kansas City, Mo., and KCATA’s first rain gardens.
The new all-electric truck is part of KCATA’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.
“KCATA’s commitment to the environment is more than a one-day celebration,” said KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer. “Our business is cleaner transportation, and we’re excited to be able to make this improvement to our maintenance fleet.”

95th & Troost Park-and-Ride

The 95th & Troost Park-and-Ride is a joint project of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and KCATA, and is located on the periphery of its employee parking lot.
“GSA is proud to support the KCATA in their efforts to green the bus fleet and increase public transportation options in the area. This is a great example of how the city is investing in a clean energy economy,” said Jason Klumb, Regional Administrator to the U.S. General Service Administration’s Heartland Region.

About the vehicle

The Newton truck is powered by the latest Lithium-Ion batteries and a 120kw electric motor, has a top speed of 50 mph and a range of 100 miles on a full charge. It is designed to operate effectively in urban environments that demand heavy stop-and-go driving. The Newton truck was launched in the UK by Smith Electric Vehicles in 2006. It is produced in North America by Smith Electric Vehicles US Corporation, based in Kansas City, Mo.
KCATA purchased the truck as part of the Troost MAX bus rapid transit line, which was funded by a federal grant. In addition to saving money on fuel, the electric truck helps reduce carbon emissions while reducing noise.

Green features on Troost MAX

The Troost MAX Green Line includes several environmentally friendly features that are already garnering local and national recognition.
MAX buses have clean diesel engines to reduce nitrous oxide emissions. Five of the MAX buses are hybrids, using battery power from start-up to 25mph. When the clean diesel engine takes over, it also recharges the batteries. These are the first full-size hybrid buses to operate in the Kansas City region. They are expected to increase fuel economy by 30%.
Rain gardens are designed into 30 stations to capture and filter water run-off, reducing flooding, erosion and pollutants in rivers and streams. MAX stations include energy-efficient LED lighting. New solar lighting has been installed at Troost local stops. Benches at Troost MAX stations are made of Ipe wood, a more sustainable hardwood from Brazil.
Pervious concrete is used to absorb water and reduce runoff. The 31st St. Park-and-Ride is the largest pervious concrete facility in Kansas City.

KCATA recently dedicated a new all-electric, zero emissions maintenance truck.  Pictured are Geoff Jolley, representative for U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-3);  Kansas City, Mo., Councilman John Sharp; Mokhtee Ahmad, Regional Administrator for Region VII, Federal Transit Administration; Mark Huffer, General Manager/CEO of KCATA; Jason Klumb, Regional Administrator, Heartland Region, U.S. General Services Administration; and Robbie Makinen, Charmain, KCATA Board of Commissioners.

KCATA To Raise Paratransit Fares

(Kansas City, Mo. – April 1, 2011) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will increase passenger fares for the Share-A-Fare paratransit service effective May 1, 2011.

Share-A-Fare is a transportation program serving people with a disability that prevents them from using fixed-route bus service. The service provides paratransit trips as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) throughout The Metro bus service area, as well as some other transportation services for eligible persons in Kansas City, Mo.

Effective April 1, 2010, the fare for ADA-eligible trips will increase 50 cents to $3.00 per trip. Federal guidelines allow ADA paratransit fares to be up to twice the regular bus fare, which is currently $1.50. Fares for non-ADA Share-A-Fare trips are based on distance and will increase as indicated in the following chart.

Non-ADA, Share-A-Fare
Trip Length and Fare:
0 – 3 miles - $3.00
3 – 6 miles - $5.00
6 – 9 miles - $7.00
9 – 12 miles - $9.00
12 – 15 miles - $11.00
15+ miles - $11.00 + $2.00 per mile
ADA Eligible Trips - $3.00

This fare increase only affects Share-A-Fare.  The regular fare for the Metro fixed route bus is not changing and is still $1.50 per trip.

Public Comment Opportunities

KCATA is accepting public comment regarding the fare increase to Share-A-Fare:
Mail: Share-A-Fare, 1200 E. 18th St., Kansas City, MO 64108
Phone: 816-346-0300 (This is a pre-recorded comment line only.)
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Public Meeting: Share-A-Fare Service Review Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m. at the KCATA offices, 1200 E. 18th Street. The first half hour of the April 12 meeting will be reserved for public comment on the fare increase.

Earth Day Poster and Poetry Competition

Entry Form [PDF] - Rules [PDF]

Background

The Difference is Me 2011 Earth Day Poster and Poetry Competition invites students of greater Kansas City to raise awareness of transit’s environmental benefits through creative, exciting and attention-getting interior bus signs. The ATA hopes to feature as many posters and poems as possible.
Represent your school! Your posters and poetry may be displayed on dozens of The Metro’s 300 buses and viewed by thousands for an entire year.

Who Can Participate

The Difference is Me 2011 Earth Day Poster and Poetry Competition is open to all schools and students in and around the Kansas City metropolitan area. Each student can enter one poster and one poem. The total number of winners will vary based on the entries received.

Deadlines

Entries for The Difference is Me 2011 Earth Day Poster and Poetry Competition should arrive at the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, 1200 E. 18th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, by 4 p.m. on April 11, 2011.

Awards

The number of winners will vary upon the number of posters/poems received.
• Winners will receive a copy of their poster or poem as an interior sign.
• All winning entries will be placed in a drawing to determine which school a hybrid-electric bus will visit.
• The school must be in The Metro service area.

Please see the Entry Form [PDF] and Rules [PDF] for complete details.

See the winners from 2010.

“Stop the Silence and the Violence” Bus Ads to Debut

Ads to Debut March 31

(Kansas City, Mo. – March 14, 2011) An ad campaign urging the public to come forward to help prevent crime will soon debut on Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) buses.

The KCATA and community activist and local comic book creator Alonzo Washington have teamed up in an effort to curb the increasing levels of violence in the area. Displaying signs inside buses is the newest component of a grassroots campaign spearheaded by Washington and aimed at preventing 100 homicides in Kansas City. The bus ad’s primary message makes a direct and urgent appeal to “Stop the Silence and the Violence.” The ad also features Washington’s comic book superhero creation Omega Man.

“KCATA remains committed to working with individuals, organizations and law enforcement to keep our communities safe,” said KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer. “It is our hope that the bus ads will prompt people to come forward with information that may help put a stop to future violence in our community.”

The addition of transit advertisements will coincide with Washington’s other efforts that include an anti-crime themed vehicle, a “Stop 100” Facebook page, Washington’s Myspace page as a tips hotline online, airing public service announcements on urban radio stations and ongoing grassroots activity.

“In a city filled with violence, it is great to see that the ATA is playing a role in urging people to come forward with tips regarding violent crimes,” said Washington. “I am confident that high profile billboards appearing on local Metro buses last year contributed to solving murders and arresting suspected killers.”

Advertisements will appear on Metro buses at the end of March. Persons can friend the “Stop 100” Facebook page by logging in and searching “Stop 100 Community.” In addition, Washington’s Myspace page receives tips daily at http://www.myspace.com/alonzo_washington.

 

2010 Employee of the Year

(Kansas City, Mo. – March 2, 2011) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is pleased to announce 30-year Bus Operator Dean Berkley as the 2010 Employee of the Year.

Berkley joined the KCATA in 1977 as a bus operator. During his 34 years at the KCATA, he has been honored with many distinguishing accolades including: Employee of the Month award in August of 1989, Perfect Attendance Award 30 times, Safe Driving Award for 30 years, and numerous Distinguished Driver Awards.

Berkley has earned the Distinguished Driver Award an astounding 24 times. The Distinguished Drivers Award is an annual award honoring drivers who have no avoidable vehicular or passenger accidents, no chargeable customer complaints, no written violations or suspensions, no missed assignments, no more than one late occurrence and the equivalent of 242 days of driving. Only two other drivers have more than 20 Distinguished Driver Awards, and no one has earned more than 24.

KCATA Superintendent Tom Morgan states, “All of his peers and supervisors respect Dean. His record speaks volumes about him. He has achieved ‘outstanding/above average’ level on all his performance reviews. He has also received numerous commendations and no complaints. Dean has not missed any work since the middle of 2005.”

Fellow coworkers describe Berkley as “quiet” and “helpful.” He assists student drivers during training classes. Berkley has a good sense of humor and enjoys fixing old cars and spending time with his family.

Employee of the Year Dean Berkley is congratulated by Transportation Director Bob Kohler.

KCATA Board Elects New Officers

(Kansas City, Mo. – Feb. 28, 2011) The Board of Commissioners of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) elected new officers for 2011.

Jackson County, Missouri, Commissioner Robbie Makinen was elected Chairman at the February 23 board meeting.  Makinen is Economic Development Coordinator for Jackson County and has served on the Board since 2007.

A.J. Dusek, commissioner representing Wyandotte County, Kansas, will continue to serve as Vice Chairman in 2011.

Marge Vogt, commissioner representing Johnson County, Kansas, will continue to serve as Secretary.

Juan Rangel, Jr., commissioner representing Clay County, Missouri, has been elected to serve as Treasurer.

Additionally, James Klobnak has been appointed by Mayor Mark Funkhouser to serve as commissioner for the City of Kansas City, Mo. Klobnak is Jackson County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney.

KCATA is governed by a 10-member Board of Commissioners, five from Missouri and five from Kansas. Commissioners are limited to two consecutive four-year terms. Responsibility for the management, control and operation of the Authority and its properties is vested in the Board. The Board exercises its responsibility by adopting all general policies of the Authority, including the adoption of annual capital and operating budgets, the establishment of the goals of the Authority, and the selection of a General Manager. The Board may delegate certain duties and responsibilities to the General Manager for the management and operation of the Authority.

KCATA Completes First TIGER-Funded Improvement

KCATA Completes First Of Many TIGER-Funded Transit Improvements

(Kansas City, Mo. – Feb. 15, 2011) The area’s first TIGER-funded infrastructure projects will be completed today by the city of Independence and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) with the installation of heaters at the Independence MetroCenter.

Last year, the region received a $50 million competitive federal grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) program for transportation infrastructure improvements.

The Independence MetroCenter in Independence, Mo., northwest corner of Truman Road and Noland Road, is a transit hub for seven bus routes serving Independence and the #24-Independence and #24X-Independence Express. Customers who are waiting for a bus or making a transfer at the MetroCenter can now be more comfortable with the newly installed heaters.

“The Independence MetroCenter includes ample seating and shelter for customers who depend on The Metro to get to work, shopping and the doctor,” said Mark Huffer, KCATA General Manager. “The addition of heaters will now make their wait even more comfortable.”

The $13,587 project was paid for with 100 percent federal funds. Installation was performed by Leath and Sons.

Upcoming Projects

The $50 million TIGER grant will fund projects in the Green Impact Zone and improvements to major transit corridors in Kansas and Missouri over the next few years.

Beginning in March, KCATA will begin engineering and design for transit improvements in the State Avenue Corridor. KCATA and the city of Kansas City, Mo., will also seek construction bids for various projects in the Green Impact Zone. Design work is complete on transit stop improvements at Truman Road and Winner Road, and at Truman Road and Osage Road in the city of Independence, Mo. Design work is in progress on the transit stop improvement at U.S. Highway 24 and Brookside Avenue, as well as at the Blue Ridge transfer center.

A photo inventory of TIGER project locations is available from the Mid-America Regional Council.

In addition to the city of Independence, other major TIGER partners are Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, Johnson County Transit and Mid-America Regional Council. Other partners include a number of local cities in Kansas and Missouri. The grant aims to improve transportation infrastructure, provide greater access and mobility to opportunities, create jobs and impact economy.

 

KCATA Hosts Info Sessions About Upcoming Troost MAX Changes

(Kansas City, Mo. – November 1, 2010) Major improvements in bus service on Troost will start Jan. 1, 2011. In the meantime, KCATA is preparing customers for the upcoming changes. Throughout November, KCATA will help customers learn more about Troost corridor improvements by providing them opportunities to Get Info. Now! at convenient locations along the Troost route.

Metro customers are invited to meet with KCATA staff and pick up detailed information and maps at the following times:

Thursday, Nov. 4:
Central Library, 14 W. 10th St., Kirk Hall, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cleaver Family YMCA, 7000 Troost Ave., 3 – 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 9:
Rockhurst Community Center, 5401 Troost Ave., 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
39th & Troost MetroCenter, 3 – 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 10:
Truman Medical Center, Lobby, 2301 Holmes, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Young Nation Youth Center, 1101 E. 95th St., (Bannister & Troost) 3 – 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 16:
39th & Troost MetroCenter, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cleaver Family YMCA, 7000 Troost Ave., 3 – 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 17:
Rockhurst Community Center, 5401 Troost Ave., 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
39th & Troost MetroCenter, 3 – 6 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 18:
Central Library, 14 W. 10th St., Kirk Hall, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 29, and Tuesday, Nov. 30:
KCATA, Breen Building, 1200 E. 18th St. (Lobby), 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The new Troost MAX bus rapid transit line from downtown to southeast Kansas City will open New Year’s Day. There will be schedule and route changes on the #25-Troost local route, #108-Indiana and #123-23rd Street. Together, the BRT and local routes will provide faster, more efficient service.

For further information, customers may contact the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Troost MAX To Open 1-1-11

(Kansas City, Mo. – Sept. 27, 2010) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has announced the opening date of the Troost MAX bus rapid transit line: January 1, 2011.

Beginning New Year’s Day, Troost MAX will serve downtown, the Crossroads district, Hospital Hill, and midtown, going south along Troost to Bannister. The bus rapid transit route will serve the city’s highest ridership corridor, including the Green Impact Zone. It will feature green technologies, such as hybrid electric buses, rain gardens, and a pervious concrete park-and-ride. North of 75th Street, Troost MAX will run every 10 minutes on weekdays.

Construction Nearing Completion
Construction of the line is 80 to 85 percent complete. Approximately two-thirds of the MAX stations are in place. The real-time signs that will show when the next MAX vehicles will arrive at a stop are being customized at KCATA headquarters. Commissioned artwork that will be featured at three locations - 31st Street, 39th Street, and 75th Street - will be in place in November. Pavement improvements on the route are nearly 100 percent complete.

One of the delays KCATA faced was waiting for the closure of the Troost Bridge and the associated reroute. In order to begin creating the MAX schedule, KCATA is measuring traffic conditions in the area and will be able to build a reliable schedule for Troost MAX and the #25-Troost.

Public Outreach Begins Soon
KCATA will conduct education and outreach to the surrounding community and current Metro riders about the differences between MAX service and regular Metro service. MAX will have different stop locations from the existing Troost route and a new schedule. The local #25-Troost service will also have changes to its route and times.

Public participation has been a vital part of developing the Troost MAX line. KCATA held numerous meetings with the City of Kansas City, neighborhoods, and nearby businesses over the last few years, making the planning process a collaborative effort.

Troost MAX, also called the Green Line, will be the second MAX route in Kansas City. Main Street MAX, or the Orange Line, began in 2005. The first MAX line has doubled The Metro’s ridership in the Main Street corridor and has experienced high levels of customer satisfaction. MAX features the latest in transit technology, including real-time arrival information at MAX stations and traffic signal priority along the route. MAX uses easy-to-identify vehicles, and stops are well-lit with highly visible information markers.

For more information about MAX and Metro service, call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

101 Operators ‘Distinguished’ As the Best in Safety and Customer Service

(Kansas City, Mo. – Sept. 27, 2010) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will honor 101 full- and part-time Metro bus operators during the 26th annual Distinguished Drivers Awards Ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 30.

The 2010 award recipients met rigid criteria that emphasize driver safety, customer service, reliability and attendance in a 12-month period from July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2010. Metro operators are eligible for the honor if they have:

• No avoidable accidents
• No chargeable customer complaints
• No written violations or suspensions
• No missed assignments
• No more than one late arrival to work
• No more than eight non-vacation days off work

The Distinguished Drivers ceremony will honor operators in four categories; Meritorious Drivers are recognized for having met the high standards required of a distinguished driver 15 years. Grand Master Driver awards are presented to operators who have earned distinguished driver status 10 years, and the Master Driver recognition will be awarded to five operators earning five years as a distinguished driver. The remaining 92 operators earned distinguished driver status during the current program year, including three operators with more than 20 Distinguished Drivers awards: Dean Berkley, Jerry Gardner and O.B. Jemerson.

2010 Meritorious Drivers
- Curtis Hammons
- Ernest Warren
2010 Grand Master Drivers
- Anthony J. Carter
- Michael Rowan
2010 Master Drivers
- Danny Dowdy
- Richard Griffin
- Ella Hussey
- Angela Sampson
- James Wells

Earlier in the week 89 employees in the Vehicle Maintenance, Procurement and Plant Management departments will receive the Maintenance Plus award.  Maintenance Plus recognizes employees for safety, attendance and reliability.

 

Ozone Alert! Issued for Thursday, August 12

(Kansas City, Mo. – August 12, 2010) Today is an Ozone Alert!

The three area transit agencies – The Metro, The JO and Unified Government Transit – will offer 75¢ bus rides tomorrow to promote healthy air quality.

Kansas Citians can help clear the air in Kansas City by riding the bus instead of driving, even for short trips.

More information and an online trip planner are available. Or call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. for trip planning assistance.

Customer Satisfaction Improves

Satisfaction Improves For Metro and MAX Transit Services

A summary of results is available in PDF format.

(Kansas City, Mo. – July 29, 2010) Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s (KCATA) recently completed Customer Satisfaction Survey shows bus riders rate Metro and MAX service higher in 2010 than in 2007.

KCATA contracted with market research firm ETC Institute to conduct the survey. Chris Tathum of ETC Institute said KCATA is bucking the trend of decreasing satisfaction with public services.

“While most public and government agencies’ satisfaction scores are going down, KCATA’s scores are higher than they were in 2007,” Tathum said.

“Overall satisfaction with KCATA services improved in almost every area that was rated, which shows the KCATA has done a great job meeting the needs of its customers.”

Of Metro customers, 70 percent rated overall bus service in 2010 as “excellent” or “very good” compared to 64 percent in 2007, which represents a five percent increase.

In addition, satisfaction ratings for MAX continue to be high. More than 75 percent of MAX customers rate all of the aspects of MAX service measured in the survey as “excellent” or “very good.”

KCATA gathered information about how customers use the service, as well as demographic data.

As in 2007, transit customers tend to be employed, 54 percent in 2010 compared to 57 percent in 2007. The slight decrease is largely accounted for by a four percent increase in riders who are using public transportation to look for a job. Unemployment among bus riders has doubled in 2010 (16 percent) from 8 percent in 2007.

“Nevertheless, work commuters and job-seekers still account for 65 percent of those surveyed,” Tathum said. “Clearly, public transit remains vital to the mobility of the labor force in Kansas City.”

While Metro and MAX customers also represent several demographic and socio-economic segments, customers tend to be younger than the general population of the Kansas City area. Twenty-three percent are 25 years or younger, and nearly half are 34 years or younger.

Customers were randomly selected and asked to rate satisfaction levels in key areas such as overall service quality, driver safety and bus information.

A total of 1,489 usable responses were collected.

 

 

Ozone Alert! Issued For Wednesday, July 28

(Kansas City, Mo. – July 27, 2010) Tomorrow is an Ozone Alert!

The three area transit agencies – The Metro, The JO and Unified Government Transit – will offer 75¢ bus rides tomorrow to promote healthy air quality.

Kansas Citians can help clear the air in Kansas City by riding the bus instead of driving, even for short trips.

More information and an online trip planner are available. Or call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. for trip planning assistance.

Ozone Alert! Issued For Saturday, July 17

The Metro Offers 75¢ Bus Rides

Kansas City, Mo. – July 16, 2010) Tomorrow is an Ozone Alert! The Metro is offering 75¢ bus rides to promote healthy air quality. The 75¢ Ozone Alert! fare is an increase from 50¢ on Ozone Alert! days in 2009.

Motor vehicle emissions are the greatest contributor to ozone pollution in greater Kansas City. By riding the bus instead of driving, people can help reduce the amount of ozone in the air. The Metro offers 75¢ bus rides during all Ozone Alerts! between June 1 and September 30.

Ozone Alerts! are issued when ground-level ozone reaches high levels. These levels are dangerous for people with respiratory problems, as well as for healthy adults and children playing, working and exercising outdoors. Since automobiles produce more than one-third of the emissions associated with ground-level ozone, reducing driving is a good way to help improve air quality.

To plan a commute by bus call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. today. You can also visit http://www.kcata.org to look up routes and schedules or use the Trip Planner.  The ozone forecast is available at (913) 383-7557 and http://www.marc.org; local weather forecasts feature a color-coded SkyCast, with alerts declared for Red and Orange days.

Poster Contest Winners Announced

During Earth Week, the ATA sponsored the Every Day is Earth Day Poster and Poetry Competition for students in the Kansas City area. The contest called for posters and poetry around the theme, Every Day is Earth Day, to raise awareness of transit’s environmental benefits through creative, exciting and attention-getting interior bus signs.

Watch a video slideshow of the winning posters.

The winning submissions were drawn by students from grades 1 to 9 and feature a range of environmental themes, from riding the bus to recycling. More than 70 children from around the metro area sent in their drawings. 

Seventeen posters were selected to become interior bus signs. The works of art will be displayed on Metro buses all over the Kansas City area this summer.

ATA brought a new hybrid MAX bus to Derrick Thomas Academy (DTA) on Tuesday, June 22, for a recognition ceremony. ATA General Manager Mark Huffer spoke to the winning students, staff and parents that gathered at the school. Huffer presented the students recognition certificates and a mock-up of their posters. The event concluded with a short bus ride on the hybrid MAX bus.

Click on the poster for a closer view at the winning entries:

Noemi A.

Helene Bechtel

KyJuan Boyles, Derrick Thomas Academy

Taylor Drummer

Shelby Edwards, Kingsville R-1

Mykhel Harris, Derrick Thomas Academy

Alana Hawkins, Derrick Thomas Academy

Charlee Hodson, Kingsville R-1

Lori L.-A., Kingsville R-1

Travis Mayo, Derrick Thomas Academy

Itialya Montgomery-Smith, Derrick Thomas

Harmoni Moore, Kipp Endeavor Academy

Shelby Moses, Pleasant Lea Middle School

Monasia Payton

Anthony Rubin, Derrick Thomas Academy

Terry Standifer, Pathway Academy

Brittany S., Kingsville R-1

Governor Releases Budget, Transit Funding Reduced

The budget for the State of Missouri has been finalized by the Governor. The one-time appropriation of $3 million that was requested by the Missouri House and Senate has been restricted indefinitely, making the release of the funds dependent on the state’s economic condition. Additionally, the Governor is restricting over $600,000 that is currently received from the state of Missouri on an annual basis under the State Transit Assistance Program. The reduction to this program will affect all recipients. Rural transit will receive approximately $158,000, down from $1 million to; urban transit will be restricted to $400,000, a reduction from $2.6 million.

We understand the extraordinary pressures in the State budget and the very difficult decisions Governor Nixon is facing.  Under these conditions, we are not necessarily surprised at the outcome. However, we continue to be disappointed that Missouri funding for public transportation is among the lowest state funding in the nation.

KCATA has a reserve that may assist in avoiding severe service cuts immediately. However, the reserve can only sustain transit service for a short time, and Kansas City may be faced with drastic public transit service reductions in the future if a new and significant alternative funding source is not identified.

Public transit is key to economic recovery, stability and growth, in that it provides Kansas City residents with access to jobs and provides employers access to the labor market.  Without transportation to jobs, new job creation is not fully effective.  For these reasons, it is in Missouri’s best interest to give public transit first priority should state revenue exceed budgeted amounts. 

KCATA Constructs Kansas City’s First Pervious Concrete Parking Lot

(Kansas City, Mo.—May 19, 2010) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is building the first pervious concrete parking lot in Kansas City, Mo., as part of the new MAX on Troost bus rapid transit (BRT) line.  The park-and-ride lot at 31st & Troost will also include new landscaping, lighting, passenger seating, and public art.

Pervious concrete reduces the runoff of polluted water. Rainwater soaks through the pervious concrete, replenishing natural aquifers and protecting streams.  Storm water runoff from parking lots includes oils and other hydrocarbon liquids that can be filtered through the pervious concrete.

“KCATA is incorporating several green technologies such as rain gardens, electric hybrid vehicles, and solar lighting, on the new MAX on Troost BRT line,” said Dick Jarrold, Senior Director of Engineering and System Development. “The pervious concrete park-and-ride lot is one of these green solutions that will benefit both the air quality and the water quality while providing a convenient midtown park-and-ride.” 

BRT Project Administrator Keith Sanders said, “After the community gets a chance to see how the pervious concrete performs at the 31st & Troost Park-and-Ride lot, we expect to see greater use of this green paving material around the city.”

Pervious concrete allows up to eight gallons per square foot per minute to drain through. According to the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, pervious concrete also improves air quality by lessening the heat island effect of parking lots. The lighter color of the concrete and lower density lets the concrete capture less heat than a conventional concrete or asphalt parking lot.

The pervious concrete was placed at the 31st & Troost Park-and-Ride lot last week and will be shown to the public at Troost Festival on Saturday, May 22.

About MAX

KCATA implemented its first BRT line on Main Street in July 2005. The success of MAX on Main paved the way for a second BRT line that will open on Troost Avenue in 2011. MAX on Troost will not only provide an exciting transit upgrade for The Metro’s highest ridership route, but will also contribute to revitalizing the Troost corridor. This investment is intended to improve service and amenities for existing riders, but also to attract new riders.

Metro Service To Kansas City Zoo Main Entrance Starts May 16

(Kansas City, Mo.—May 14, 2010) On your next visit to the Kansas City Zoo, consider taking The Metro. Bus service to the Zoo starts Sunday, May 16 on the #53-Armour-Swope Park route.
The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority recently revised Armour-Swope Park service so that Metro buses will serve the Zoo’s main entrance every hour, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
Customers can catch the bus downtown, Crown Center, midtown and on the southeast portion of the route for direct service to the Zoo. Customers can also transfer to the #53-Armour-Swope Park from many other Metro buses at major intersections along the route. 
“Whether you are a tourist or a KC resident, The Metro’s Armour-Swope Park route offers a convenient, affordable way to get to the Zoo,” said Anita Cobbins, KCATA Marketing Manager.
The schedule for #53-Armour-Swope Park is available online and in schedule racks. For more information about the route, fares, and transfers, customers can call the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays.

Missouri House and Senate Approve Funding For KCATA Operations

Both the Missouri House and Senate have approved an appropriation for KCATA in their budget bills. The Missouri House approved a $5 million appropriation, while the Missouri Senate approved a $2 million appropriation.

A conference committee of House and Senate members will meet to negotiate the amount that will be put in the Missouri state budget. The budget will then go to Governor Jay Nixon.

Our thanks go to the Kansas City area Senators and Representatives who fought hard to make sure this request remained in the budget. If approved, this funding will help preserve Metro service. Due to declining sales tax revenues, which is KCATA’s primary funding source, KCATA is facing serious budget challenges.

New Federal Guidelines For Small Starts Projects

The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced a dramatic policy change that could be good news for the future of Kansas City transit.

In January, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood proposed new funding guidelines for major transit projects such as light rail, streetcars, and bus rapid transit. Under budget restrictions issued by the Bush Administration in March 2005, the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) funding decisions for the New Starts and Small Starts program were based on how much a transit project shortened commute times in comparison to the project’s cost. Due to relatively low traffic congestion in the Kansas City area, many possible projects would not have been eligible for federal funding.

“Our new policy for selecting major transit projects will work to promote livability rather than hinder it,” said Secretary LaHood. “We want to base our decisions on how much transit helps the environment, how much it improves development opportunities, and how it makes our communities better places to live.”

The criteria for the New Start and Small Starts program will now include:

• Economic development
• Mobility improvements
• Environmental benefits
• Operating efficiencies
• Cost effectiveness
• Land use

The new approach will allow for a fuller picture of how proposed transit projects will serve their communities.

 

$50 Million for Transit, Green Impact Zone Improvements Announced

$50 Million for Transit and Green Impact Zone Improvements Announced by U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood

(Kansas City, Mo. – Feb. 18, 2010) U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood announced that Kansas City will receive $50 million as part of the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program. This money will create jobs while providing improvements in key transit corridors and the Green Impact Zone of Missouri.

Public transit improvements will occur along several major transit corridors:

• Bus stop and pedestrian improvements along North Oak in North Kansas City, Gladstone and Kansas City, Mo.
• Bus stop and pedestrian upgrades within the Linwood/US 40 corridor, from midtown Kansas City to eastern Jackson County.
• Independence, Mo., Transit Center improvements, and enhancements to bus stops between Kansas City, Mo., and Independence.
• State Avenue in Kansas City, Kan., improvements will include two new transit centers and additional upgrades along State Avenue.
• Enhancements along Metcalf Avenue and Shawnee Mission Parkway in Johnson County, Kan., including sidewalk improvements.

Within the Green Impact Zone, transit enhancements will include sidewalk repair and construction, concrete bus pads and pullouts, and new passenger amenities. At 39th & Prospect, bus pullouts and shelter upgrades are planned to improve traffic flow creating a safer and more comfortable environment for Metro customers waiting to board buses. Along the MAX bus rapid transit route on Troost, reconstruction of the Troost Bridge over Brush Creek by the City of Kansas City, Mo., will receive $8 million in funds. In addition, funds are allocated for street improvements, traffic signal upgrades, and traffic signal interconnectivity.

KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer said this project further strengthens transit’s role in providing vital services to the Kansas City community.

“This is an infrastructure improvement to make Metro service more attractive to customers who currently use the bus and to attract people who do not yet use The Metro,” Huffer said. “These funds will help us create transfer centers, erect benches and shelters and construct or repair sidewalks at key stops throughout the region. Projects from these funds will enhance transit’s connectivity to where people live, work, and shop. We are delighted that the Secretary recognized the positive transit improvements already implemented in our region, and chose to fund additional projects to keep the positive momentum going.”

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood stated these discretionary grants are a good investment on the part of the federal government.

“TIGER grants will tackle the kind of major transportation projects that have been difficult to build under other funding programs,” LaHood said. “This will help us meet the 21st century challenges of improving the environment, making our communities more livable and enhancing safety, all while creating jobs and growing the economy.”

Proposed by U.S. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II, the Green Impact Zone initiative was hailed by President Obama in July for its focus on “transforming a low-income community into a national model of sustainability by weatherizing homes and building a green local transit system.”

The Kansas City project was selected from more than 1,400 applications, totaling over $60 billion in requests, were submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Awards throughout the country will total $1.5 million. The Kansas City Regional TIGER application was submitted to USDOT by the Mid-America Regional Council. The TIGER program required that projects be shovel ready and be able to generate short- and long-term economic impacts, generate added outcomes of livability, promote safety, and involve innovative technology and financing.

How-To-Ride Videos Pass 10,000 Views Milestone

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KCATA “How-To-Ride” Videos Pass 10,000 Views Milestone; Series Now Enhanced With Closed Captioning

(Kansas City, Mo. – January 26, 2010) In May 2009, the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority launched its online “How-To-Ride” videos. Since then the video series that features instructions on riding The Metro has reached a milestone. It surpassed 10,000 views this month, and the series has now been upgraded to include subtitles.

The YouTube.com videos cover topics from finding your route to using the on-bus bike racks to paying your fare. The Metro’s YouTube channel is online at http://www.youtube.com/RideTheMetro. The how-to’s are also online in the Rider Guide section.

“This milestone tells us more people are turning to the web to learn how to ride The Metro,” said Director of Marketing Cindy Baker. “New customers can take their time and see how easy it is.”

From the YouTube.com website, viewers can share the videos on social networking sites such as Facebook.com or via email.

To make the videos even more accessible, The Metro has recently added closed captioning to the video series.

The benefits go beyond being accessible for people who are hearing impaired. Now people can watch the subtitled videos when they are in an environment where noise may disturb others, such as a library or office. The captions are also helpful for people who may have challenges with understanding spoken language or understanding accents.

To turn on closed captioning on The Metro’s YouTube.com videos, look for the “CC” symbol that appears in the lower right hand corner of the video screen when the video starts. Click on the symbol, and the captions will appear at the bottom of the video.

 

New Audio Ads Generate New Revenue For KCATA

As most customers know, in 2009 KCATA reduced service in Kansas City, Mo., due to declining transit sales tax revenue. KCATA continues to look for new sources of revenue to help offset declining sales tax revenue.

One of these new strategies is the sale of audio ads on Metro buses. We have been testing the audio ads for a couple of months and are now airing the first paid advertisement. The ads are linked to the GPS system, and are broadcast inside buses based on the location of the bus and/or the time of day. In addition to broadcasting paid advertisements, The Metro will also use audio ads to publicize route announcements, programs and other Metro news. 

So far, the ads have received mixed reviews from customers. Some people have expressed their appreciation for the effort to increase revenue, while others have found the ads intrusive to their ride time. It is our goal to generate revenue with the audio ads, but to do it in a balanced manner. Below are a few guidelines for the audio ads:

• Stop announcements will ALWAYS take priority over paid ads
• Ad frequency will be limited to approximately 10% of bus stops
• Ad volume will be calibrated so that it is consistent with the stop announcements
• Audio ads will be professionally recorded.

Since these messages can be customized based on the location and time of day, we hope that they will be relevant to customers. For example, advertisers can create special offers for bus riders who show their transfer or pass. Additionally, the audio ads are affordable for small businesses that could not otherwise advertise in more traditional media. 

If you have any questions about the new audio advertising program, please contact us at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

KCATA Launches New Online Initiatives

WebWatch, Facebook and Twitter Will Keep Customers Connected

(Kansas City, Mo. – August 26, 2009) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) announced several new initiatives today that will help customers stay informed about Metro bus service.

Customers can now track their buses online with the help of WebWatch, a new website feature that debuted today at the agency’s Board of Commissioners meeting. Metro customers can look up the route they want to catch, and see where the bus is in real time and when it is expected at scheduled timepoints.

The new tool uses KCATA’s satellite and GPS technology to track the location of any bus serving a fixed route. Web pages on WebWatch get new, up-to-date information from Metro buses every minute. This feature will help customers know when to arrive at their stop. Customers can log on to WebWatch at work, school, home, or any other internet-friendly environment to get the next bus’ arrival time.

Customers can follow their bus on a map, get predicted arrival times for timepoints, and receive notifications via email of bus arrivals at any Metro stop. ADA accessible information is also available.

Find The Metro On Social Media Websites

Other new initiatives will allow customers to connect to The Metro through two popular social networking websites, Twitter and Facebook.

Twitter is a micro-blogging website that allows users to read and send short messages or tweets. Users can send and receive tweets via the Twitter.com website, cellphone messaging services or other external applications. KCATA is using the service to primarily alert customers about temporary and permanent changes to Metro routes, and to post contests, promotions and other passenger information.  To find KCATA on Twitter, visit www.twitter.com/KCATAMetro or search for “KCATAMetro.”

Facebook is an online gathering place where friends share thoughts, photos and experiences with each other. Facebook users can easily become a fan of KCATA and share their thoughts and experiences with public transit. Customers can find The Metro on Facebook here.

 

Public Transportation Is Safe

From the American Public Transportation Association

Public Transit Systems Have Precautionary Procedures In Place

The millions of people who take public transportation should continue to do so, knowing that public transit systems already have procedures in place to deal with seasonal flu outbreaks and are closely monitoring the H1N1 virus (swine flu) outbreak.

“People should continue to ride public transportation.  Buses and trains are as safe as any other public area,” said American Public Transportation Association (APTA) president William W. Millar.  “Public transit systems deal with large numbers of people on a regular basis and already have precautionary procedures in place for both riders and employees.”

Transit systems regularly clean facilities, vehicles, and fare vending equipment with high-grade germicidal solutions and will take additional measures as appropriate.

Coordination on this issue is happening between transit systems and federal agencies. Representatives of U.S. public transit systems are receiving alerts from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and can also participate on conference calls with the Department of Homeland Security.

“There is a good line of communication going on between the federal government and the public transportation industry,” said Millar. “If we do reach the level of pandemic flu, APTA and its members will follow the lead of the federal government in implementing necessary steps for public transportation.”

Public transit employees and customers should be mindful of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) which recommends the following actions to be taken no matter where you are.  Found at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/, these recommendations are as follows:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.  Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.  Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.  Germs spread that way.
• Stay home if you get sick.  CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Public transportation systems remind employees to practice good hygiene and regularly wash their hands, and may also caution their customers through vehicle advertising or announcements. 

Representatives from public transportation systems nationwide will be meeting in Seattle next week at the 2009 APTA Bus and Paratransit Conference.  A session on how public transportation systems are dealing with the H1N1 virus (swine flu) will take place on Monday, May 4 at 4:00 p.m. PST.

#    #    #

APTA is a nonprofit international association of nearly 1,500 member organizations including public transportation systems; planning, design, construction and finance firms; product and service providers; academic institutions; and state associations and departments of transportation. APTA members serve the public interest by providing safe, efficient and economical public transportation services and products. APTA members serve more than 90 percent of persons using public transportation in the United States and Canada.

Investment in Public Transportation Yields Jobs

From the American Public Transportation Association

Two Out of Three Jobs Created by Public Transit Investment Replace Jobs Hardest Hit by Economic

New study shows $1 billion investment in public transportation yields 30,000 jobs.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 29, 2009

WASHINGTON, DC – A new study released today shows that investing in public transportation provides jobs to the American workers who may need them the most.  Job Impacts of Spending on Public Transportation: an Update shows that two-thirds (67 percent) of the jobs created by capital investment in the public transit industry replaces lost blue-collar jobs with “green jobs” in the public transit sector.  The Economic Development Research Group prepared the study for the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). 

Overall, the study shows an investment of one billion dollars in public transportation supports and creates 30,000 jobs in a variety of sectors.  Based on these projections, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), which provides $8.4 billion for public transportation projects, will create approximately 252,000 jobs for Americans and help transit systems meet the steadily growing demand for public transit services.  APTA released the study at the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing Recovery Act: 10-Week Progress Report for Transportation and Infrastructure Programs.

“The ultimate goal in any economic recovery plan should be to not create just any type of job, but rather to invest in and focus on areas particularly hit hard by the economic downturn,” said William W. Millar, APTA president.  “The investment in public transit not only produces green jobs but also provides for a more sustainable transportation system that will help reduce our dependence on foreign oil and lessen the transportation sector’s impact on the environment.”

The study reveals that two out of three (67 percent) of these new construction and manufacturing “green jobs” resulting from public transit capital investment typically fall in the category of Blue-Collar Semi-Skilled (59 percent) and Blue-Collar Skilled (8 percent).  These jobs include positions in manufacturing, service, repair worker, drivers, crew, ticket agents and construction. 

In addition, 33 percent of the new jobs as a result of public transit investment fall in the White-Collar Skilled (32 percent) or White Collar Semi-Skilled (1 percent) category.  These jobs include clerical, managerial and technical engineers.

In his testimony, J. Barry Barker, APTA vice-chair of government affairs and executive director of the Transit Authority of River City in Louisville, KY, discussed how the funds from the Recovery Act impacted his agency and the Louisville region.  He noted it resulted in the construction of an environmentally-friendly maintenance annex; acquisition of ten hybrid buses; re-roofing of a 200,000 square foot bus barn; construction of a 1200-kilowatt emergency generation facility and important preventative maintenance activities.
 
“This is yet another example of how investing in public transportation is good for the economy, good for Americans, and good for the country,” said Barker.  “While public transportation has an answer for many of the challenges facing America today – perhaps none are more urgent than its ability to put people back to work with good, green jobs.”

To view the full report click here:  http://www.apta.com/research/info/online/jobs_impact.cfm

# # #

APTA is a nonprofit international association of nearly 1,500 member organizations including public transportation systems; planning, design, construction and finance firms; product and service providers; academic institutions; and state associations and departments of transportation. APTA members serve the public interest by providing safe, efficient and economical public transportation services and products. APTA members serve more than 90 percent of persons using public transportation in the United States and Canada.

Board Elects New Officers

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority Board Elects New Officers

(Kansas City, Mo. – January 28, 2009)  The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority Board of Commissioners recently elected new officers. Serving a two-year term as chairman is Gary Mallory of Cass County, Mo.; A.J. Dusek, Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Ks., serves as vice chairman; Margaret Vogt of Johnson County, Ks., is secretary; and Donovan Mouton, of Kansas City, Mo., will continue to serve as treasurer.

Mallory has been active in politics for several years, serving as City of Belton Alderman for three years, Mayor for 10 years, Cass County Clerk for 12 years and is currently the Presiding Commissioner of Cass County. He is currently chair of Mid-America Regional Council’s board. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Little Blue Valley Sewer District, Cass County Corporation of Economic Development, Missouri Association of Counties, Allen Bank & Trust Company,  and Missouri Transportation and Development Council. Mallory was appointed as a Commissioner of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority in 2005 by Governor Matt Blunt.

The Board of Commissioners includes five commissioners from Missouri and five from Kansas. The Commissioners serve four-year terms, with a two-term limit. The Board of Commissioners meets monthly.

Fare Proposal F.A.Q.

Additional Information, updated Jan. 28:

Metro Funding Sources: Passenger fares account for approximately 17% of The Metro’s operating revenue. [PDF, 109 KB]
Missouri Funding: Funding from the state of Missouri has dropped in the past 10 years. [PDF, 110 KB]
Sales Tax Revenue: The proposed budget for the City of Kansas City has a 14.6% decrease in funding for KCATA. [PDF, 143 KB]
Fares In Other Cities: Fares in Kansas City would still be lower than fares in many other cities. [PDF, 150 KB]
Proposed Fares: The $3 Day Pass will remain the same price, while single ride fare would go to $1.50 and a monthly pass would cost $50.

What will the new fares be if this proposal goes into effect?
Base fare for local service - $1.50
Half fare for reduced farecard holders - $0.75
Monthly Pass - $50
Reduced fare Monthly Pass - $25

When would the fare increase go into effect?
A 25-cent fare increase has been proposed to go into effect March 1, 2009.

When did local bus fares last increase?
The last fare increase was three years ago in February 2006.

Why is a fare increase being proposed at this time?
KCATA’s primary funding sources are tax revenues derived from a sales tax levied in Kansas City, Mo. This tax has been growing at a rate of 2.1% annually for nearly a decade. Additionally, investment in public transit from the state of Missouri this year is $832,000 in 2009, compared to over $2,400,000 in 1996. KCATA does not have a reliable revenue stream that is experiencing growth.

Passenger fares only provide about 17% of the cost of transit service. As costs rise, which they have done in the last three years since the 2006 fare increase, it is important that revenue from passenger fares increase as well.

In addition, like many public and private organizations, KCATA is impacted by the current economic crisis affecting the national and local economy. Sales tax collections are down substantially, which will have a significant impact on KCATA operations.

The city of Kansas City, Mo., has released its proposed budget for its fiscal year beginning May 1, 2009. KCATA’s budget assumes funding of $50.4 million from Kansas City, Mo. Unfortunately, the city’s preliminary budget proposes funding that is approximately $8.2 million less.

Didn’t voters just pass a transit tax in April 2008?
The sales tax in April 2008 was a renewal of an existing tax established more than six years ago to stabilize the system. The 2008 election did not provide additional monies.

How does KCATA’s proposed fare compare with other cities?

Even with the 25-cent fare increase, Metro fares will be equal or lower than most peer city transit systems.

                                                                                                                                       

City	Base Fare
Salt Lake City	$2.25
St. Louis	$2.00
Milwaukee	$2.00
Philadelphia	$2.00
Pittsburgh	$2.00
Cleveland	$2.00
Denver	$2.00
Indianapolis	$1.75
Minneapolis-St. Paul	$1.75
Nashville	$1.60
Dallas	$1.50
Memphis	$1.50
Cincinnati	$1.50
Des Moines	$1.50
Charlotte	$1.50
Little Rock	$1.35

How much money will be generated by the new fare?
The increase in fare will produce approximately $1.7 million in additional revenue, assuming ridership holds at current levels. Passenger fares represent approximately 17% of the cost of Metro service.

How do I provide comments about the fare increase?
The comment period closed on Feb. 3.
Public meetings on Jan. 23, Jan. 27, Jan. 28 and Feb. 3

Will this new fare also apply to Unified Government of Wyandotte County bus service?
KCATA is proposing this local bus base fare on all local bus services operated by KCATA (The Metro), including Metro routes in Kansas City, Ks. The Unified Government is considering a similar fare for their services and will discuss this at the public meeting on Jan. 27, at the Kansas City, Ks., City Hall. 

 

2008 Ridership Increase

KCATA ANNOUNCES 2008 RIDERSHIP INCREASE

(Kansas City, Mo. – Jan. 5, 2009) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has announced that 2008 Metro ridership is projected to exceed 16.5 million trips, the highest annual ridership in nearly two decades.

“Kansas City has not experienced this level of ridership in many years,” said Mark Huffer, KCATA general manager. “Certainly as prices at the pump soared, so did ridership. However, as gasoline prices went down, ridership remained steady.”

The ridership numbers for November and December are preliminary and will be certified over the next month.

Several initiatives aimed at educating new riders contributed to the increased ridership. For the first time, How-To-Ride Clinics were held throughout the metro area. KCATA offered two online trip planners, including the popular Google Transit, where people could try out travel plans in the comfort of their home or office. GPS capabilities ensure that Metro buses are on time nearly 93% of the time. All of these features have attracted new customers to the system.

For more information, visit http://www.kcata.org, or call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660. The center’s hours are 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fare Increases For Share-A-Fare Effective August 3

(Kansas City, Mo. – July 30, 2008) On Sunday, August 3, the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will implement a 25¢ increase to the ADA paratransit fare. 

In 2006, the fixed-route bus fare was increased from $1 to $1.25. Federal guidelines allow ADA paratransit fares to be twice the fare of bus fare. However, until now the fare has stayed at $2. The new fare for Share-A-Fare rides is $2.25. Customers must have exact fare; the drivers do not issue change.

Share-A-Fare (SAF) is a transportation program that serves people who need door-to-door transportation because a disability prevents them from independently using bus service. The service provides Complementary Paratransit trips as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act throughout The Metro bus service area, as well as some other transportation services for eligible persons in Kansas City, Mo. Most people using the program are 65 years old or older or have a disability. Share-A-Fare customers must submit an application to determine eligibility.

For questions about applications and eligibility, call the Share-A-Fare office at 816-346-0810. More information about Share-A-Fare is available online.

###

Open House Meetings for MAX on Troost, April 28 & 29

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is holding open houses to invite the community to learn and provide input about the new MAX Bus Rapid Transit service coming to Troost Avenue. The route will start downtown, continue along Troost Avenue to Hospital Hill, then continue to the Bannister redevelopment area.

Monday, April 28, 2008
6-8 p.m.
Cleaver Family YMCA
7000 Troost

Tuesday, April 29, 2008
6-8 p.m.
Metro Center
3827 Troost

KCATA hopes to make it as convenient as possible for the public to provide input on such issues as station design and locations, integration into surrounding neighborhoods and opportunities for station enhancements.

We planned these public meetings as open houses so that people can stop in for 15-20 minutes and get a good idea of the whole project without having to take a lot of time out of their day,” said Keith Sanders, KCATA project manager.

MAX Bus Rapid Transit was first introduced in Kansas City in the Main Street corridor in July 2005. MAX is helping to change the face of transit in Kansas City, being held up as a national model by the Federal Transit Administration. Ridership has grown more than 40% in the Main Street MAX corridor. Part of MAX’s success has been the unique branding of MAX buses and stations, featuring real-time arrival signs.

“We are excited to be associated with this transit project in the Troost corridor,” said Leonard Graham, president of Taliaferro & Brown, Inc., a local engineering firm that is leading the design effort. “We believe that this effort will not only provide an exciting transit upgrade for The Metro’s highest ridership route, but will be yet another contributor to revitalizing the Troost corridor.”

The Metro Joins Google Transit™

(Kansas City, Mo.—April 21, 2008) Kansas Citians can celebrate Earth Day by committing to ride The Metro. Planning a bus trip is now easier with Google Transit™.
In honor of Earth Day, April 22, the Kansas City Transportation Authority (KCATA) is launching a partnership with Google™ to offer trip planning at maps.google.com.
“By partnering with Google, KCATA further demonstrates its commitment to technological innovation that benefits transit customers,” KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer said.
“Having service information available in Google MapsTM allows The Metro to reach a broader audience, introducing them to the convenience of public transit,” said Jessica Wei, Strategic Partner Development Manager at Google. “It is great to see Metro join Google Transit for Earth Day. We hope this will encourage more use of public transportation.” 
KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer says this partnership will benefit tourists, new and veteran customers.
“For current Metro customers, the site complements The Metro’s trip planner by providing maps and stop location information,” Huffer said. “Visitors and new riders will appreciate how easy it is to search for the starting and ending locations, and the step-by-step instructions.”
Downtown Council President and CEO Bill Dietrich said that the new partnership between KCATA and Google Transit exemplifies the innovative approaches being taken by KCATA to enhance accessibility of transit services in Kansas City.
“This initiative removes barriers and makes it easier to access KCATA services that provide people an energy- and cost-efficient alternative for their transportation needs,” Dietrich said. “This partnership enhances the quality of life for Kansas City residents, workers and visitors.”
Many Metro customers have used Google Transit to plan trips in other cities, including Cody Christensen.
“Google Transit makes it easy for a person to access transit information,” MAX rider Cody Christensen said. “You simply type in where you are and where you want to go and the website creates a complete itinerary that tells you how long to walk to the bus stop, what bus to take and what time to catch it.  It’s really great. You don’t need to know how to navigate each transit agency’s website; the format through Google Transit is all the same.”  There are already nearly 30 transit agencies throughout the country with transit information available through Google Transit.
KCATA introduced its redesigned website in March. http://www.kcata.org features a vibrant new look and information that is easier to find, including rider bulletins, recent news and a rider guide. 
Google Transit uses the same scheduling data used by The Metro’s Trip Planner at http://www.kcata.org. The service was created at no cost to the agency.
Google Transit has information on public transit options for nine countries in 11 languages and is accessible for visually-impaired users.  Google MapsTM mapping services also include driving directions, local search, and high-quality imagery.
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Open House Meetings for New MAX on Troost Bus Rapid Transit Service

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is announcing three open houses to invite the community to learn and provide input about the new MAX Bus Rapid Transit service coming to Troost Avenue. The route will start downtown, continue along Troost Avenue to Hospital Hill, then continue to the Bannister redevelopment area.

The first three open houses are below. There will be future meetings at other times of the day in the coming months.

Monday, March 31, 2008
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Truman Medical Center
2301 Holmes, Ground Floor, Conf. Room 3 & 4
Kansas City

Tuesday, April 1, 2008
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Cleaver Family YMCA
7000 Troost
Kansas City

Thursday, April 3, 2008
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
United Believers Community Church
7546 Troost
Kansas City

KCATA hopes to make it as convenient as possible for the public to provide input on such issues as station design and locations, integration into surrounding neighborhoods and opportunities for station enhancements.

“We planned these public meetings as open houses so that people can stop in for 15-20 minutes and get a good idea of the whole project without having to take a lot of time out of their day,” said Keith Sanders, KCATA project manager.

MAX Bus Rapid Transit was first introduced in Kansas City in the Main Street corridor in July 2005. MAX is helping to change the face of transit in Kansas City, being held up as a national model by the Federal Transit Administration. Ridership has grown more than 40% in the Main Street MAX corridor. Part of MAX’s success has been the unique branding of MAX buses and stations, featuring real-time arrival signs.

“We are excited to be associated with this transit project in the Troost corridor,” said Leonard Graham, president of Taliaferro & Brown, Inc., a local engineering firm that is leading the design effort. “We believe that this effort will not only provide an exciting transit upgrade for The Metro’s highest ridership route, but will be yet another contributor to revitalizing the Troost corridor.”