NEXT STOP: THE KANSAS CITY RIVERFRONT Crews to Break Ground on the KC Streetcar Riverfront Extension

Posted on: Feb 23, 2024

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (February 22, 2024) – Exciting things are happening on the Riverfront and on Friday, March 1, Kansas City will celebrate one more addition – the KC Streetcar.

Kansas City is invited to take part in the groundbreaking for a monumental transportation project that will completely transform how the community connects to the Riverfront. Join with project partners – City of Kansas City, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), Kansas City Streetcar Authority (KCSA), and PortKC- as they get ready to mark the start of construction for the KC Streetcar Riverfront Extension. This momentous event will kick off the $61 million project, setting the stage for a new era of connectivity, showcasing Kansas City’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that benefits residents, businesses, and visitors.

WHAT: KC Streetcar Riverfront Extension Groundbreaking Ceremony & Community Open House

WHEN: Friday, March 1, 2024, at 10:00 am

WHERE: Riverfront Drive and Berkley Plaza (just north of the Port KC offices at 110 Berkley Plaza) Attendees are encouraged to carpool, bike, or take public transit to the event. RideKC Route 210 Front Street serves the Riverfront, with about a 5-minute walk.

Following the ceremony, there will be a community open house at the Port KC office, providing an opportunity for residents, businesses, and stakeholders to meet the construction team, engage with project leaders, and learn more about this transformative project.

The KC Streetcar Riverfront Extension will cover 0.7 miles, connecting from the streetcar line at 3rd & Grand to the midpoint of Berkley Riverfront Park, and just steps away from CPKC Stadium. The project is made possible through a collaborative public and private partnership and funded with a combination of federal and local dollars: $35.2 million in federal funding and $25.9 million in local funding.

For more information about the KC Streetcar Riverfront Extension construction, please visit http://riverfrontkcstreetcar.com or find the team online on X (@kcriverfront), Instagram (@kcriverfront), and Facebook (@kcstreetcarriverfront). Contact the construction team by email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

MEDIA: Project team members will be available for media opportunities Friday, February 23 and the week of February 26, 2024.

For questions, please contact Donna Mandelbaum with the KC Streetcar Authority at 816.877.3219 (cell) or email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or Cindy Baker with the KCATA at 816.510.2874 (cell) or email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). The KC Streetcar is also online at www.kcstreetcar.org and on Twitter (@kcstreetcar), Facebook (@kcstreetcar) and Instagram.

UG Launches Flexible, On-Demand Transportation Service to Improve Connectivity and Community Access

Posted on: Feb 26, 2024

Kansas City, KS – The Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, KS (UG) Transportation Department has launched an innovative new microtransit and paratransit service to provide passengers with more efficient, responsive public transportation in our community. The IRIS application, provided by RideCo, is a cloud-based service that enables riders to improve their overall experience in planning, reserving, and paying for their rides in a single application. Both services operate under the RideKC brand.

Paratransit is an auxiliary service that provides an equitable origin-to-destination alternative to fixed-route public transportation services. Eligibility is determined by a person’s functional inability to travel to or from a bus stop, get on or off a ramp-equipped bus, or safely travel to and from a destination due to a disability. Microtransit is an on-demand shuttle service that operates within specified zones, connecting fixed route transit lines to large employers and other key destinations in Wyandotte County and is available to any community member.

“IRIS allows us to improve performance and service, identify driver trends, increase shared rides, and ensure on-time performance,” said Transportation Director Deasiray Bush. “We are encouraged by the initial feedback on the quality of these services as more equitable transportation options in our community.”

With the IRIS app, riders can now request same-day service for rides with either paratransit or microtransit services. Paratransit services are available throughout Wyandotte County. Microtransit services have been launched in Midtown KCK and Southwest Edwardsville with plans to introduce an additional service area in the Northeast/Fairfax area later this year.

“Teaming up with the Unified Government, we're enthusiastic about our role in modernizing the paratransit service," stated Prem Gururajan, Co-Founder and CEO of RideCo. "Our partnership ensures riders receive the high-quality service they've come to expect, now with the added convenience of on-demand accessibility. RideCo's cutting-edge technology has streamlined operations behind the scenes, enhancing overall efficiency.”

Microtransit services are $3.00/ride and can be paid through the IRIS mobile application, IRIS booking website, or by calling UG Transportation Dispatch at 913-573-8351. Riders can apply to be pre-qualified for paratransit service by calling 816-842-9070 or submitting the online form to the UG Transportation Department and KCATA. Paratransit services are currently FREE. More information about both services can be found wycokck.org/Transportation.

About UG Transportation: The Unified Government Transportation Department offers multimodal transit services such as fixed routes, microtransit services, and paratransit. We operate under the RideKC regional brand as we collaborate and contract with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) for additional services and coordinate with other regional transit providers to make the transit experience user-friendly for everyone.

About Ride Co.: RideCo is the leader in rider-centric on-demand transit technology, with the most adopted cloud-based paratransit and microtransit solution among the 10 largest cities in the United States. Trusted by agencies, as well as fleet operators and technology companies, the platform powers the largest on-demand transit services in North America including Los Angeles and Philadelphia. Houston and San Antonio have also adopted RideCo’s transformative software, rooted in proprietary continuous optimization technology, and supported by the industry’s best customer service, including a 95% plus retention rate.

RideKC Transit Official Statement

Posted on: Feb 16, 2024

RideKC Official Statement Regarding the Recent Tragedy

Yesterday started out full of celebration and comradery as RideKC Transit (Streetcar, Bus, and Bike) carried thousands of excited fans to the Chiefs Super Bowl Parade and Rally. Unfortunately, things took a tragic turn, resulting in the heartbreaking death of one Kansas Citian and injuring at least 22 others, including innocent children.  Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by the senseless act of gun violence that transpired that day.

The Ride KC Transit team joins our City, and our entire community, in mourning this shattering loss, and we stand united in our commitment to fostering a safe and secure environment for everyone who utilizes Kansas City’s public transportation services. We recognize that events like this impact the fabric of our society, causing grief and leaving lasting scars on the affected families and the community at large.

Gun violence has become an insidious epidemic, affecting communities nationwide and leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. It is incumbent upon us, as responsible stewards of public safety, to recognize the urgency of this issue and collectively work towards lasting solutions.

Our commitment to creating a safe community extends beyond our transit services. We pledge to work collaboratively with our passengers, neighbors, and City, County, and elected officials to ensure that our shared spaces are secure and welcoming. Together, we can cultivate an environment where everyone feels protected, supported, and free from the threat of violence.

Download PDF version

RideKC Shuttles to the Chiefs Parade

Posted on: Feb 13, 2024

The Chiefs Kingdom Champions Parade will be held in downtown Kansas City on Wednesday, Feb. 14th. The parade begins at 11am, with the Rally following at approximately 12:45pm.  The Parade Shuttles will serve fans at five free Park & Ride locations.

See the complete schedule and shuttle locations at RideKC.

Cyber-Attack hits KCATA. Communications affected.

Posted on: Jan 24, 2024

A ransom cyber-attack hit the KCATA early Tuesday, January 23. We have contacted all appropriate authorities including the FBI.

All service is operating, including fixed-route buses, Freedom and Freedom-On-Demand paratransit service.

The primary customer impact is that regional RideKC call centers cannot receive calls, nor can any KCATA landline. Freedom and Freedom-On-Demand Paratransit customers should call these numbers to schedule a trip:

Fixed-route bus customers can log on to RideKC.org or use the Transit app for bus schedule information.

KCATA is working around the clock with our outside cyber professionals and will have systems back up and running as soon as possible.

Voters Say YES to Bus Tax Renewal

Posted on: Nov 08, 2023

(Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 8, 2023) – Kansas City voters say yes to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and the 3/8-cent sales tax for the next 10 years. 

“Thank you to the voters of Kansas City for once again renewing this critical transit tax to keep our buses rolling,” said Frank White, III, KCATA president and CEO. “If there was ever any doubt about the broad-based community support for public transportation in Kansas City, it was eliminated by a margin of 73% yesterday.”

The 3/8-cent sales tax supports approximately 30% of the RideKC bus system in Kansas City, Mo. The sales tax was originally passed by KCMO voters in 2004. It was renewed in 2008 for 15 years and is set to expire in March 2024.

More than 1 million trips are taken on RideKC every month.

“We would like to thank our many supporters who worked on behalf of this ballot initiative, beginning with our labor partners ATU 1287,” White said. “Our union brothers and sisters, along with many other advocates, worked every day for the last few weeks ensuring people understood that failure was not an option.”

Contact: Cindy Baker cbaker@kcata.org for media inquiries

KCATA Welcomes Two Industry Leaders to Board of Commissioners

Posted on: Oct 26, 2023

KCATA Welcomes Two Industry Leaders, Julie Lorenz & Bridgette Williams, to Board of Commissioners

(Kansas City, Mo. | October 24, 2023) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is pleased to announce two new members of the 10-person Board of Commissioners.  Julie Lorenz, who joined the governing body in June 2023, represents Johnson County, and Bridgette Williams, who joined in October 2023, represents Wyandotte County.

Julie Lorenz

Julie Lorenz

Julie was appointed Secretary of KDOT and Director of the Kansas Turnpike Authority in January 2019. While at KDOT, she launched the Kansas Infrastructure Hub in support of IIJA, spearheaded the development and passage of the $10 billion Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program and  led the Kansas Recovery Office, responsible for administering over $1billion in CARES Act COVID-19 relief funding in six months. She was honored to receive the George S. Bartlett Award for leading development of a national vision for transportation for state DOTs, which was unanimously approved by all 52 state and territory departments of transportation in October 2022.

Ms. Lorenz joined 1898 & Co., the business and technology consulting arm of Burns & McDonnell, as a principal consultant in  January 2023. With more than 25 years of experience, she’s known as a national leader in policy development, collaboration and implementing vision initiatives.

“I am very honored to represent Johnson County and contribute my knowledge and experience in this meaningful way,” said Lorenz. “I believe in regionalism, serving a public sector mission and working on challenging problems through collaboration, which makes this appointment a good fit. There are game changing opportunities for transit in the region.”

Bridgette Williams

Bridgette Williams

Bridgette Williams serves as Executive Director of the Heavy Constructors Association of Greater Kansas City. As the Executive Director of the Heavy Constructors, Williams is the first African American and the first female to hold the top position in an AGC chapter in the country.

Founded in 1950, the Heavy Constructors Association has been at the forefront of transportation, public works, infrastructure issues, and campaigns in the Greater Kansas City Area, and in the states of Kansas and Missouri. Ms. Williams has over 30 years of experience in the fields of transportation, construction, economic development policy, problem-solving, contract negotiations, and people management. She began her career right out of college as a part-time receptionist at the Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO. She worked in various positions within the organization.

Ms. Williams was elected President of the Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO and served in that capacity for over 15 years. She was the first African American, the first female, and the youngest elected to the position in the country. The Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO is the umbrella organization for all Organized Labor in the Greater Kansas City area representing over 100,000 working men and women.

“Easily accessible, reliable and affordable transportation is the lifeblood of our region,” said Ms. Williams. “I fully embrace the KCATA’s mission    to provide equitable access to jobs, education, medical care and housing. I’m honored to represent the great people of Wyandotte County in this  capacity and to bring a diverse set of skills and experience to the table.”

Commissioners are limited to two consecutive four-year terms.

Contact: Cindy Baker .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) for media inquiries

KCATA Issues Transit Oriented Community (TOC) Request for Qualifications (RFQ)

Posted on: Apr 14, 2023

RFQ ISSUED: Addendum #2

This New Release reflects Addendum #2 that has been updated for proposing parties to review regarding updates to the calendar and timeline for RFQ responses that can be found on links below.

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and RideKC Development Corporation (RKCDC) issued a Transit Oriented Community (TOC) Request for Qualifications (RFQ) soliciting Development Team and Concept proposals tailored to TOC development outcomes for a 16.44 acre property at 2821 Vivion Road, and associated parcels.

The Pre-Proposal Conference held by RideKC Development Corporation and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority has been changed from April 20th and will be held now April 24th, 2023 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the offices of NNI, located at 5340 N. Chouteau Trafficway, Kansas City, Missouri   64119.

Please click the link below or scan the QR Code to access to the RFQ, and associated Attachments and updated Timeline, including Zoom Webinar to inform and guide parties to submit their response to the RFQ.  Questions will be taken in writing and are subject to being shared with all public and responding parties.

Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1MuAPnHArBe-YnH-ymM-9xZm6Lv7x6Xdd?usp=share_link

 

RideKC Shuttled 70,000 Chiefs Fans to Parade

Posted on: Feb 22, 2023

 Could Nearly Fill Arrowhead Stadium

(Kansas City, Mo., February 22, 2023) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is pleased to announce that regional RideKC transit shuttled more than 70,000 to and from five park-and-rides to the Chiefs Kingdom Champions Parade. That’s enough to nearly fill Arrowhead Stadium! This compares to 55,000 in 2020. Shuttle service was provided before and after the parade and rally from:

The busiest park and rides were Oak Park Mall and Worlds of Fun, providing more than 40,000 trips combined.  

“Public transportation is the lifeblood of our community,” said Frank White III, CEO of KCATA. “In times of celebration and in times of challenge, RideKC connects people to opportunities, like jobs, education, health care, housing, and yes, Super Bowl Parades.”

The successful shuttle service was made possible by regional RideKC operators and by contracting with local school bus companies. Approximately 130 public transit buses and 300 school buses were deployed. In addition to the shuttles, KCATA-RideKC served even more parade-goers on buses that replaced KC Streetcar service that was not operating during the parade.  

“Special event transportation is often the first introduction to public transportation in a city like Kansas City,” said White. “RideKC drivers and staff thrive on these opportunities to put our best foot forward. When special event customers have a champion experience, they will come back for more."

# # #

RideKC East-West Transit Study Progresses Forward

Posted on: Jan 31, 2023

Second Round of Public Meetings Scheduled for the RideKC East-West Transit Study 

(Kansas City, Missouri | Jan 31, 2023) - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and KC Streetcar Authority (KCSA), in cooperation with several project partners, announce the next round of public meetings for the RideKC East-West Transit Study. 

During these meetings, the project team will introduce proposed transit scenarios, including routes and modes, for the RideKC East-West Transit Study. There will be in-person presentations and a question-and-answer session for the public to provide feedback. The same information will be presented at both meetings. 

Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Presentations start at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Habitat for Humanity of KC, 1423 Linwood Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64109

Thursday, February 9, 2023
Presentations start at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Our Savior Lutheran Church, 4153 Rainbow Blvd., Kansas City, KS 64103

Public feedback is critical to ensure the future of high-capacity transit in Kansas City is equitable and transformative. Since the study began in April 2022, the project team has conducted more than 150 one-on-one or in-person micro meetings, held three public meetings, and issued two community surveys to gain feedback from the community about their transit needs. 

This study is unique because it’s a multi-party, bistate effort to analyze the technical and financial feasibility of high-capacity east-west transit connections across the state line. The corridor includes connections to the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension as well as north-south RideKC MAX Bus Rapid Transit and bus services on both sides of the state line. Building on previous studies which have identified specific corridors as potential transit opportunities, the project study area is from Rainbow Boulevard to the west and the Truman Sports Complex to the east, and 31st Street to the north and 43rd Street to the south.

RideKC East-West Transit Study project partners include the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA); the Kansas City Streetcar Authority (KCSA); the City of Kansas City, Mo. (KCMO); Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas (UG); and the University of Kansas Hospital Authority.

###

MEDIA: For East-West Transit study questions, please contact Alex Miller at alex@parsonkc.com or by phone at 816-601-0137. To learn more about the RideKC East-West Transit study, visit the project webpage at www.eastwesttransit.org.  

KCATA Announces Frank White III as CEO – no longer interim – to Lead Bi-State Authority

Posted on: Jan 26, 2023

(Kansas City, Mo. | Jan. 25, 2022) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is pleased to announce Frank White III, as the permanent President and CEO.

In August of 2022, White was unanimously named to the interim CEO position by the 10-member KCATA Board of Commissioners. With this new appointment, he is the first African-American to lead the organization as CEO.

In the past six months as the interim CEO, White has worked to add transparency to operations, as well as a deeper integration of data and analytics. He has sought out and engaged experts in mobility, land use, transit data and economic activity in order to drive innovation across the agency. At RideKC Development Corporation, White continues to be instrumental in engaging the community and building relationships to create a transportation-oriented development model that fits the region’s unique needs.

Additional select achievements over the last six months include:

“Frank has proven he’s the right leader for the job,” says Melissa Bynum, Chair of the KCATA Board of Commissioners. “His vision, commitment and tenacity has fueled new life into the organization, not to mention his qualifications are spot on. The board is aligned with Frank’s leadership approach and we look forward to working with him to achieve KCATA’s mission.” 

Frank was hired at KCATA in 2016 as a Senior Marketing Manager and quickly ascended the ranks of the agency, including roles of Chief Marketing Officer, Director of Strategic Planning and Development, and Vice President of RideKC Development Corporation. Across these roles, White led the agency to award winning work in both marketing and diversity. He accelerated expanded service offerings, including micro transit options.

“Over the last several months in this leadership position, we’ve made significant progress at a local and national level to start meeting our goals,” says White. “I’ve been and will remain committed to rebuilding relationships, restoring funding, and holding not only myself, but my team, and the organization accountable for our actions. There’s more work to be done, so I’m greatly appreciative for the opportunity.” 

In July of 2022, KCATA RideKC was named the top public transit agency in North America for
midsize agencies, earning the prestigious 2022 American Public Transportation Association
Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award.
 

RideKC Increases Service On MAX Lines, Improves Connectivity On Several Routes

Posted on: Dec 15, 2022

(Kansas City, Mo. | Dec. 15, 2022) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is pleased to announce a number of improvements in RideKC service starting Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. Fifteen routes are changing, with big improvements coming to MAX lines and connections in downtown.

“We enter 2023 with a renewed momentum,” said Frank White III, KCATA CEO. “It’s been a challenging couple of years. We are now in a position to make this important first step to restoring some service. We are especially excited about the increase in MAX service.”

Service on RideKC’s MAX lines will increase by 50 percent. Main MAX and Troost MAX will offer service every 20 minutes instead of every 30 minutes on Weekdays and Saturdays.

Three routes extend further into downtown. 47 Broadway and 101 State Ave. will now travel all the way across downtown to the East Village Transit Center at 12th & Charlotte downtown. 106 Quindaro-Amazon will extend its downtown route northward, traveling to 3rd & Grand in the River Market. These changes provide better connections to even more bus routes and the KC Streetcar. 201 North Oak adds a handful of limited stop trips between Boardwalk Square and East Village.

Several routes that serve 12th & Wyandotte change their route's endpoint and have minor time adjustments: 12 12th Street, 18 Indiana, 23 23rd Street. Other changes include: 63 63rd Street will improve access to housing; 104 Argentine and 107 7th Street-KU Med have a reduction in Saturday service only; Prospect MAX, 9 9th Street, 11 Northeast-Westside, and 35 35th Street will have time adjustments. 

For more information about these changes, customers can visit RideKC.org any time or call the RideKC Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. We offer translation assistance for trip information in more than 50 languages. 

Public Meetings Slated for RideKC East-West Transit Study in October

Posted on: Sep 16, 2022

(Kansas City, Mo. | Sept. 16, 2022) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), in coordination with several project partners, will host two in-person meetings and one virtual meeting in October for the KCATA East-West Transit Study. The RideKC East-West Transit Study will evaluate a high-capacity transit connection between the area around the University of Kansas Health System campus in Kansas City, Kansas, and the area around the Rock Island Corridor/Truman Sports Complex (Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium) in Kansas City,  Missouri.

The public meetings mark the first opportunity for the community to help narrow route options to ultimately arrive at a single recommendation. In addition to the meetings, there will be an interactive map that will enable people to provide feedback, weigh in on preferred screening criteria, and influence alignment options.  The same information will be provided at all three public meetings.

Public Meetings - three opportunities. Choose one or all to attend.

5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Drexel Hall
3301 Baltimore Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64111


5-8 p.m. on Thursday, October 6, 2022
Linwood YMCA/James B. Nutter, Sr. Community Center
3800 Linwood Blvd.
Kansas City, MO 64128
12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 11, 2022

Virtual Meeting. Register at eastwesttransit.org

RideKC East-West Transit Study project partners include the Kansas City Streetcar Authority (KCSA); the City of Kansas City, Mo. (KCMO); Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kans. (UG); and the University of Kansas Health System.

This study is unique because it’s a multi-party, bistate effort to analyze the technical and financial feasibility of high-capacity east-west transit connections across the state line. The corridor includes connections to the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension as well as north-south RideKC MAX Bus Rapid Transit and bus services on both sides of the state line. Building on previous studies which have identified specific corridors as potential transit opportunities, the project study area is from Rainbow Boulevard to the west and the Truman Sports Complex to the east, and 31st Street to the north and 43rd Street to the south.

For more information about the RideKC East-West Transit Study, visit the project website at www.eastwesttransit.org. For RideKC East-West Transit Study questions, please contact Alex Miller with Parson & Associates at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or at 816.601.0137.

Media Contacts:
Cindy Baker, VP Marketing, Communications, Customer Service, cbaker@kcata.org

Donna Mandelbaum, KC Streetcar Authority, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

KCATA Announces Executive Promotions

Posted on: Sep 07, 2022

KCATA Announces Executive Promotions

(Kansas City, Mo. | Sept. 6, 2022) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is pleased to announce several promotions, following the hiring of Frank White III as the new interim CEO.

Terri Barr-Moore has been promoted to Vice President Government Relations/Interim Chief of Staff. She was formerly KCATA’s Executive Director of Government Relations. Prior to that she worked for Senator Claire McCaskill for 15 years.

Richard Jarrold has been promoted to Interim Deputy CEO. Jarrold has been with KCATA 25 years and has been critical to the successful implementation of bus rapid transit, regional capital transit improvements and building relationships throughout the region.

Bruce Beatty has been promoted to Interim Chief Financial Officer. Beatty retired from the city of Kansas City, Mo., and brings 33 years of public sector budget and finance experience to the team.

“We are assembling a leadership team that is diverse and qualified,” said White. “We are here to serve the public, and we are making realignment and hiring changes that will ensure a better customer experience for our customers.” 

In July, KCATA RideKC was named the top public transit agency in North America for midsize agencies, earning the prestigious 2022 American Public Transportation Association Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award.  

KCATA Announces New Interim CEO to Lead Bi-State Authority

Posted on: Aug 10, 2022

(Kansas City, Mo. - Aug. 10, 2022) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is pleased to announce Frank White III, as the new interim President and CEO. White will be transitioning out of his role of Vice President of the RideKC Development Corporation (RKCDC), an organization he helped create to facilitate transportation-oriented development along the region’s transportation corridors. The 10-member KCATA Board of Commissioners voted unanimously in favor of White.  

“Frank is the ideal choice,” says Melissa Bynum, Chair of the KCATA Board of Commissioners. “To say he has earned this role is an understatement. He’s led ridership growth, created new partnerships, driven workforce development, advised public policy, developed new transit programs – the list is long. Now he gets to put it all together for the entire agency.”

Frank was hired at KCATA in 2016 as a Senior Marketing Manager and quickly ascended the ranks of the agency, including roles of Chief Marketing Officer, Director of Strategic Planning and Development, and Vice President of RideKC Development Corporation. Across these roles, White led the agency to award winning work in both marketing and diversity. He accelerated expanded service offerings, including micro transit options. 

“I’m excited about this opportunity, but this really isn’t about me,” says White. “We serve the public and our role in their lives is critical, they depend on us and we must deliver on our promises. That’s my immediate top priority. Going forward, I’m committed to rebuilding relationships and restoring the funding necessary to serve our 32,000 daily riders.”

Throughout White’s career at KCATA, he has worked to add transparency to operations, as well as a deeper integration of data and analytics. He has sought out and engaged experts in mobility, land use, transit data and economic activity in order to drive innovation across the agency. At RKCDC, White has been instrumental in engaging the community and building relationships to create a transportation-oriented development model that fits the region’s unique needs.

In July, KCATA RideKC was named the top public transit agency in North America for midsize agencies, earning the prestigious 2022 American Public Transportation Association Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award.

“In my six years at the KCATA, I've had the honor of working with some of the most dedicated and hardest working people in our industry,” said White in response to the award. “This recognition is a testament of our commitment to being customer-focused and connecting people to opportunity. I've been blessed and fortunate to play a small part at the Authority. For that, I am grateful.”

Recently KCATA Board of Commissioners approved the first two TOD facilities using the agency’s START Policy, which stands for Sustaining Transportation and Reinvesting Together. “This is a significant milestone that will add riders and residents to KC,” says White. “Even more, the revenue generated by RKCDC will be reinvested to provide even greater access to jobs, housing, healthcare and education.”

# # #

Board accepts resignation of CEO

Posted on: Jul 27, 2022

The following is a statement from the KCATA Board of Commissioners.

At its July 27, 2022 meeting, the Board of Commissioners for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) approved an agreement under which the Board accepted the resignation of Robbie Makinen as CEO for KCATA. The Board wants to express its appreciation for Robbie’s service to KCATA, first as a Commissioner and then as its CEO. Under Robbie’s leadership, KCATA has been an innovator in public transit, expanding the mission of KCATA beyond bus service to include things like the RideKC Bike+Scooter program, and the Zero Fare initiative that all but eliminated fares for those using KCATA buses. These programs have led the nation in trying to arrest the effects of a changing climate, while also providing an equitable system for those who are most reliant on KCATA’s vehicles to get to their jobs, medical appointments, and other needed destinations.

KCATA’s Board wishes Robbie nothing but the best in his future endeavors.

RideKC Wins Top Honor in North America

Posted on: Jul 15, 2022

(Kansas City, Mo. | July 15, 2022) RideKC has been named the top public transit agency in North America for midsize agencies, earning the prestigious 2022 American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award.  

“Over the past three years COVID has deeply affected transit systems across the country. One constant from my conversations during this time is that KCATA is always mentioned in discussions about leaders in equitable fare policies and diversifying mobility options," said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. "While facing a changing landscape as we return from COVID, it is also admirable to see they have recovered 80% of their pre-pandemic ridership. I congratulate you on this well-deserved award.”

The selection criteria was based on three years of quantitative data, such as ridership, vehicle revenue miles and operating costs, and qualitative evaluation including safety, accessibility, financial management and community relations.

“This national recognition is shared by the RideKC team at KCATA, as well as all of our regional RideKC partners at the Unified Government, Johnson County, Independence, KC Streetcar and BikeWalkKC,” said Melissa Bynum, Chair of the KCATA Board of Commissioners. “We will take a moment to celebrate – our RideKC employees deserve that – continuing to prepare to meet the regional transportation challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With this RideKC regional board and team, I have total confidence we will succeed.”  

“This entire region is being recognized for advancing the industry dialog around innovation and equitable fare policy,” said Jameson Auten, KCATA Deputy CEO/COO.  “Kansas City and all RideKC partners continue to be impactful in shaping transit nationally, from regional branding, mobility options, app-based ride sharing, and of course, zero fare. Not to mention that ridership in Kansas City has recovered at a faster pace than many other cities.

“RideKC is comprised of people who truly want to serve this community and are invested in its long-term health and sustainability,” said Auten. “Our team’s dedication over the past three years to providing equitable, accessible service has been exemplary and we’re honored to receive this national recognition.”   

While the COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges to RideKC and the Kansas City community, KCATA did not let it stop our progress towards modern, equitable transportation. RideKC’s Zero Fare was fully implemented in 2020, in part as a response to COVID protocols, after a series of zero fare programs for targeted groups of transit riders.  

Another area of innovation has been "micromobility.” In 2015, KCATA launched the nation’s first app-based partnership with Bridj and Ford. While this project was shuttered after the pilot program, it led to the 2016 creation of RideKC Freedom On-Demand for people with disabilities, and later to Micro Transit in Johnson County (2019) and Wyandotte County (2020). RideKC shared its experience and knowledge with the industry over the past several years to help them shorten their learning phase and growing pains.

The American Public Transit Association will formally honor RideKC at the APTA Transform Annual Meeting and EXPO this October.

 

RideKC Kicks Off East-West Transit Study

Posted on: May 18, 2022

The Project Team Wants to Hear From YOU! 

(Kansas City, Mo.) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), in cooperation with several project partners, announces the launch of the RideKC East-West Transit Study to evaluate an east-west, high-capacity transit connection between the area around the University of Kansas Health System campus in Kansas City, Kans. and the area around the Truman Sports Complex (Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium) in Kansas City,  Mo.  

RideKC East-West Transit Study project partners include the Kansas City Streetcar Authority (KCSA); the City of Kansas City, Mo. (KCMO); Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kans. (UG); and the University of Kansas Hospital Authority. This study is unique because it’s a multi-party, bistate effort to analyze the technical and financial feasibility of high-capacity east-west transit connections across the state line. The corridor includes connections to the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension as well as north-south RideKC MAX BRT and bus services on both sides of the state line. Building on previous studies which have identified specific corridors as potential transit opportunities, the project study area is from Rainbow Blvd. to the west and the Truman Sports Complex to the east, and 31st St. to the north and 43rd St. to the south. 

Map of East West Transit Study

The project team is seeking community input to help determine the needs and priorities for the study in order to build a better-connected regional transit system. Feedback is critical to ensure the future of high-capacity transit in Kansas City is equitable and transformative. In addition to public and community meetings, the project team will host a series of one-on-one interviews, advisory committee meetings, and presentations throughout the study in order to keep the public connected.  

“Community input is critical to fill existing east-west transit gaps in our region,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “We want to understand the community's needs first, and then use the feedback we receive to help guide the study.” 

“With the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension under construction and the Riverfront Extension estimated to break ground in 2023, the time to plan future connections is now,” said Tom Gerend, Executive Director, KC Streetcar Authority. “The Main Street extension will serve as the spine of the region’s transit system, building connections to a multitude of Kansas City’s communities. But that work can only be done successfully by working with our communities to build a transit system that matches their needs and goals,” continued Gerend.   

There are several opportunities for people to provide feedback during the East-West Study: 

To learn more about the RideKC East-West Transit study, visit the project webpage at www.eastwesttransit.org. 

RideKC Shows Love to RideKC Flex Customers with New App

Posted on: Feb 23, 2022

RideKC public outreach teams will be onboard RideKC Flex vehicles and at transit centers Monday to share information with customers about booking their trips using the new mobile app, RideKC Flex.

Flex vehicles pick you up where you are and take you where you want to go, unlike traditional bus service that only makes stops along a fixed route. All Flex trips must be booked within the boundaries of separate service zones. Customers can connect to other RideKC bus routes to travel throughout the region. Each Flex zone has a transit center or focal point where multiple bus routes come together for easy connections. All Flex services are currently zero fare.

Flex service operates at specific hours of the day and certain days of the week, depending on the zone. These five Flex zones can now be booked in the new RideKC Flex app:

99 South Kansas City Flex – serves 3-Trails Transit Center

297 Tiffany Springs Flex – serves Boardwalk Square Park & Ride

298 North Kansas City Flex - serves bus stops along Burlington/MO-9, Armour Road, and Chouteau Trafficway

299 Gladstone-Antioch Flex - serves Antioch Crossing

399 Raytown Flex - serves Blue Ridge Crossing and 3-Trails Transit Center

These Flex services are operated by the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority and funded in cooperation with the cities of Kansas City, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Raytown.

Introducing the RideKC Flex App

The new RideKC Flex app, powered by Spare Labs, can be used for all Flex zones in Missouri. The new app allows customers to book and cancel trips, which was previously only offered by phone. Download the free RideKC Flex app in the Google Play and App Store.

KCATA Unveils Zero-Emission Buses Sponsored By Evergy

Posted on: Apr 08, 2021

Dignitaries On-Site for Official Unveiling 

(Kansas City, Mo. – April 7, 2021) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and Evergy are pleased to announce the unveiling of the first two electric buses to be used in RideKC public transit service in the Kansas City region. Evergy is sponsoring the vehicles with specially branded graphics that will be unveiled at the event. (Attendees will be required to have their temperatures taken and wear a mask.)

The event will be live streamed at 10 AM at the following links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EvergyPower/posts/10159492640585680
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMl-ft_LTh8

REMARKS:     

“This is just our first step into zero-emission vehicles,” said KCATA CEO Robbie Makinen. “We are committed to the region’s Climate Action Plan which calls for transitioning to an electric bus fleet. Zero fare electric buses will improve the financial and environmental health of our community.”

“Evergy is excited to partner with KCATA to bring electric buses to Kansas City. Electric buses provide emission-free transportation and can help make our electric grid more efficient with overnight charging,” said Kim Winslow, Senior Director of Energy Solutions, at Evergy.

The two 40-foot electric buses from GILLIG LLC, the leading manufacturer of heavy-duty transit buses in the United States will be put in service later this spring. In addition to a smoother, quieter ride and a reduced carbon footprint, the new GILLIG buses offer enhanced passenger comfort and safety features. These include easy-to-clean vinyl seats, USB charging ports at all seats, high definition cameras, drivers’ protection barriers, and passenger information monitors.

Bus charging will be supported by new ChargePoint charging stations installed at KCATA. The project is funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and matching funds from Kansas City’s ½-cent transportation sales tax.

One of the electric vehicles will operate on MAX lines and the other will travel along other local routes so customers throughout the community will be able to enjoy the environmentally friendly benefits and quieter ride.

The vehicles are powered by six onboard batteries, with a battery capacity of 444 kWh, providing an estimated range of 150 miles. The buses utilize energy recovered from a regenerative braking system and feature a direct-drive traction motor with peak torque of 3500 Nm (2,582 lbs.-ft.). They are equipped with state-of-the-art Cummins electrified powertrain. Because they are built on GILLIG’s low-floor bus platform, the new electric buses ensure parts and training commonality with KCATA’s existing GILLIG fleet.

“We’ve been partnering with KCATA for more than 20 years to provide safe, reliable, high-quality transportation,” said Bill Fay, GILLIG Vice President of Sales. “We are pleased to provide the first GILLIG battery-electric buses in Kansas City.” 
 

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Newly Appointed KCATA Board Members Attend March Meeting

Posted on: Mar 24, 2021

The Board of Commissioners of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) welcomed two new commissioners at the March 24, 2021 board meeting. The newly appointed commissioners, Reginald Townsend and Janee Hanzlick attended their first board meeting since being appointed.  

Governor Mike Parson appointed Reginald Townsend to the KCATA Board of Commissioners in February. Townsend is the current Mayor Pro-Tem for the Raymore, Mo. City Council. He’s been a member of the Raymore City Council since 2017.

Townsend serves as a Financial Management Analyst for the Programs and Resources Department with the United States Marine Corps. He also currently serves as Cass County Liaison Committee Member for the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC). Previously, he was an Information Systems Specialist for the Farm Production and Conservation Business Center with the United States Department of Agriculture. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Baker University in Overland Park, Kansas. 

Janee Hanzlick currently serves on the Johnson County Board of Commissioners. She is the former CEO of the Safehome domestic violence agency. Hanzlick’s passion for transit comes from her background in social work. She says public transportation is vital to help victims of domestic violence start a new life without their abuser.

Hanzlick is a member of the Overland Park Rotary Club. She was in the Leadership Overland Park, Class of 2007 and Past-President of the Johnson County Community Violence Action Council. She earned a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC and has been a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Kansas for the past 28 years.

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 CEO. The Board may delegate certain duties and responsibilities to the CEO for the management and operation of the Authority.

KCATA Awarded Certificate Of Achievement For Excellence In Financial Reporting

Posted on: Mar 24, 2021

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year that ended December 31, 2019. The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) awarded KCATA with the honor in early March. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. This is the second year in a row KCATA has received the award.      

“KCATA is proud to receive this recognition of our efforts to provide transparency in our budgeting process and to ensure that regulatory compliance, accurate financial reporting, and good stewardship of taxpayer funds and organizational assets is achieved,” said KCATA President and CEO Robbie Makinen. “This certificate of achievement shows the great strides KCATA has made in our social responsibly and accountability to our customers, our partner agencies, governmental bodies and our board of commissioners."

The GFOA established the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program (Certificate Program) in 1945 to encourage and assist state and local governments to go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles to prepare comprehensive annual financial reports that evidence the spirit of transparency and full disclosure and then to recognize individual governments that succeed in achieving that goal.  

The award-winning financial report can be found on KCATA.org.  

KCATA Board of Commissioner Elects New Officers; Adds Two New Appointees

Posted on: Jan 27, 2021

(Kansas City, Mo. – Jan. 27, 2021) The Board of Commissioners of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) elected new officers at the Jan. 27, 2021, board meeting. The current Board Chair, Commissioner David Bower of Jackson County, Mo., will continue as Chair and Commissioner Melissa Bynum of Unified Government of Wyandotte County-Kansas City, Kan., was re-elected Vice Chair. Commissioner Louie Wright of Clay County, Mo., was elected Treasurer and Commissioner Joe Peterson of the Unified Government was elected Secretary. The KCATA Board of Commissioners is made up of five people from Missouri and five from Kansas. Officers are nominated at the end of the year and officially elected in January of each year.

KCATA also welcomed two new commissioners to the board.

Tamika McClaine, small business owner, blogger and speaker, will represent Unified Government of Wyandotte County-Kansas City, Kan. McClaine has been a transit advocate for public school children for nearly a decade. She started in public service on her local school’s PTA Board. While working on the board of the Kansas City, Kan. PTA council, she pushed for parent involvement and safer routes to schools. She also served on the board of Drive Wisely - Wyandotte and was integral in helping get infrastructure improvements near local schools. 

John Stamm, Chief of Staff to Mayor Quinton Lucas, joins as the representative to Kansas City, Mo. Born and raised in KC, he graduated from UMKC with degrees in Philosophy and Business. While at UMKC, he founded a nonprofit tutoring company, helping hundreds of low-income students improve their ACT and SAT scores. After several positions in the nonprofit sector in St. Louis and New York City, he returned to his hometown to manage Quinton Lucas’ campaign for Mayor. In his current role, he has had the privilege to help lead Kansas City’s response to COVID-19, guide the office of the Mayor in responding to several crises, and provide direction on the long-term policy goals of the administration.

In 2021, KCATA Board of Commissioners meetings will be held bi-monthly.  Until further notice, all regular meetings, committee meetings and special meetings of the Board will be held via teleconference. For more information about the Board, visit our webpage for Board of Commissioners.  

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KCATA Wins KDOT Innovation and Technology Grant to Improve Public Transit Integration

Posted on: Dec 14, 2020

Micro Transit to be available in the Transit app starting mid-2021 

(Kansas City, Mo. – Dec. 10, 2020) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has been awarded a $59,000 innovation and technology grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation to integrate micro transit into Transit, RideKC’s official app for bi-state regional transit.

Based on nearly two years of micro transit operations, there is evidence that customers are transferring between micro transit and fixed-route services. Currently, two micro transit zones on the Kansas side – one in Johnson County and one in Wyandotte County – are not yet integrated in the Transit app. This grant from KDOT will enable riders to use the app to plan multimodal trips that combine micro transit with fixed-route service, beginning in mid-2021. Transit is RideKC’s official app to plan trips and track the location of buses throughout the Kansas City region.

“Micro transit ridership is growing rapidly on the Kansas side of the metro with financial commitments from local governments,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “Currently users in Johnson and Wyandotte counties must toggle between two separate smartphone apps to integrate their micro transit trips with fixed-route transit service. This integration will improve access to jobs, health care, education and equitable opportunities.”

“This micro transit integration is going to have a macro impact,” said David Block-Schachter, chief business officer at Transit. “By adding micro transit to its official app with fixed-route, RideKC will help its customers make the most out of both services. We’re excited to kick off work with TransLoc and bring RideKC riders an easy way to integrate micro transit into their commutes.”

KDOT funded the 2020 expansion of micro transit in Johnson County. Both Wyandotte and Johnson counties are looking at possible expansion beyond the current micro transit zones. 

The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce has identified micro transit as a way to meet the needs of their members and increase access to jobs.

For more information on micro transit service, go to RideKC.org.

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About Transit: Transit solves the urban commute in more than 200 cities worldwide. Users can easily navigate public transit with accurate real-time predictions, simple trip planning, step-by-step navigation and quick, easy payments. The app also integrates additional transport modes — bikesharing, scooters, carsharing and ridehail — so users can mix-and-match their options with public transit to determine the best way to get from A to B. The company is based in Montréal, QC. Learn more by visiting [url=http://www.transitapp.com]http://www.transitapp.com[/url].

AboutTransLoc: TransLoc is a subsidiary of Ford Mobility. We are part of a broad suite of mobility solutions intended to enhance both public and private transit agencies. Together, we are working to solve the world’s mobility challenges and usher in the future of modern transportation in every part of the globe.

RideKC Reduces Service Due to Staffing Shortages Related to COVID-19  

Posted on: Dec 07, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo., December 7, 2020) – The Kansas City Area Transportation announces a temporary reduction in RideKC transit service starting Monday, Dec. 14, due to staffing shortages among the operator workforce and increasing community spread of COVID-19. RideKC transit should be used for essential trips only, effective Nov. 18. 

The following routes will be temporarily discontinued effective Dec. 14: 

These changes are in addition to previous changes that were implemented Nov. 23, 2020. Other routes will maintain current schedules at this time.  However, if regional impacts of COVID-19 or staffing levels get worse, additional changes may be necessary.  Customers are encouraged to sign up for RideKC Notify to receive a text, email or voice message about changes affecting specific routes.  It’s easy to sign up and select notification preferences. 

These changes are designed to retain access to jobs, education, healthcare and equitable access for low-income residents who need public transportation most. 

“RideKC will continue to provide essential service to riders at zero fare,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “If customers must make essential trips, they can have confidence that RideKC is continuing all of the safety protocols that have been in place consistently throughout the pandemic, such as a mask requirement, rear door boarding and limiting the number of seats available.”

Essential Trips Only  

Consistent with the Safer At Home orders and recommendations issued by area counties and municipalities, KCATA recommends transit riders only make essential trips, such as: 

RideKC COVID guidelines  

See more about the current status of transit at RideKC.org/bulletins/covid 

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

 

RideKC Reduces Bus Service Due to COVID-19 Impact

Posted on: Nov 17, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo. – Nov. 17, 2020) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will temporarily roll back some RideKC transit service starting Monday, Nov. 23. This is due to the increasing community spread of COVID-19, which is resulting in higher than normal absenteeism among KCATA’s operator workforce.

Consistent with the Safer At Home orders and recommendations issued by area counties and municipalities, KCATA, in partnership with the city of Kansas City, Mo., recommends transit riders only make essential trips going forward, such as:

“RideKC will continue to provide essential service to riders at zero fare,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “If customers must make essential trips, they can have confidence that RideKC is continuing all of the safety protocols that have been in place consistently throughout the pandemic, such as a mask requirement, rear door boarding and limiting the number of seats available.”

Transit operators are on the front line seven days a week and we’re proud of the work they are doing during this challenging time. Contact tracing indicates employee exposure is mostly due to activities and risks from outside of the workplace.

In general, most RideKC core routes operating every 15 minutes will continue at that level of service. Low frequency routes will be temporarily canceled to allow the remaining operators to focus on the core network, where the need is greatest.

For the latest schedule updates and RideKC news, please check our website and follow us on social media

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KCATA Holds Public Online Meetings To Share Transit Redesign Developed By Customers, Stakeholders

Posted on: Nov 10, 2020

KCATA Holds Public Online Meetings To Share Transit Redesign Developed By Customers, Stakeholders

(Kansas City, Mo. – Nov. 9, 2020) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority will hold virtual public meetings to present the RideKC Next transit plan developed by customers and stakeholders over the last year and a half. Customers are encouraged to attend the online meetings to provide valuable input about this next phase of the RideKC Next plan in Kansas City, Mo.

“The RideKC Next plan reflects the needs and desires of the community,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “We listened and are responding with a plan that provides better access to jobs, health care, education and social equity. It is a plan that addresses community needs for the next 20 years, not the last 20. And, we are providing it zero-fare for riders.”

The RideKC Next plan provides the same amount of service, reallocated to expand access to jobs, health care, education and social equity. The goal of the revised plan is to provide a simpler, easier and more efficient network that connects more people to opportunities. The proposed restructuring includes establishing a frequent grid in the core of the transit network, while also providing flexible service that covers larger areas and provides access to the system.

KCATA has been zero fare since March 2020 to better meet the needs of customers who rely on transit to connect to jobs, essential services, and other opportunities. A single parent with two children saves $2,100 a year, which will be invested elsewhere in the local economy. 

Upcoming Meetings 

There are six RideKC Next informational Zoom sessions scheduled over the next month. Attendees may drop in and out during a session to learn about planned changes and provide input. To join the meeting, click on the provided link. When prompted, select “Run” to launch the meeting. Please wait for RideKC to admit you. A Zoom account is not necessary to attend a meeting. The meetings can also be attended by calling in to an access number. Those call-in details are available at ridekcnext.org.

What’s proposed in the RideKC Next plan? 

A frequent grid to connect more people to opportunities.

A simpler, easier and more efficient network.

The proposal represents input from extensive public outreach obtained in early 2020, as well as analysis of travel patterns and needs during the 2020 pandemic. In addition to the meetings being held now, RideKC will offer personalized travel training in the spring of 2021 leading up to planned implementation in July 2021.

Customers may ask questions or submit a comment by calling 816-346-0300 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

To review plan materials in advance of the public meetings go to ridekc.org. Maps and hours of service by route will be available online by Nov. 12. 

RideKC Transit App Provides Transit Directions To Polling Places on Election Day, Nov. 3, 2020

Posted on: Nov 02, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo. – Nov. 2, 2020) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is reminding voters that they can easily take RideKC transit to their polling place for free. All polling places for the Nov. 3 election are available on RideKC’s official app, Transit.

Approximately 52% of regional polling places are located within ½-mile of public transit. To get started, simply download the Transit app to plan a trip to your polling place. Blue checkmarks indicate a polling place. Viewers may need to zoom out to see polling places.

Don't know which polling place is yours? Visit [url=https://ridekc.org/blog/election-day]https://ridekc.org/blog/election-day[/url] for links to confirm your voter registration and polling place.

KCATA will also provide free shuttle service on RideKC buses from the East Village Transit Center at 12th & Charlotte in downtown Kansas City to Arrowhead Stadium on Election Day. The shuttle will run between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. approximately every 30 minutes on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. The stadium will be available for registered Kansas City, Mo., voters who live in Jackson County.

RideKC fares have been suspended due to COVID.

In addition, RideKC Bike is offering two free rides to help people vote. Use code BIKETHEVOTE20 on the RideKC Bike app Nov. 3.

For complete route and schedule details going to the polls and advance voting sites, go to ridekc.org.

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KCATA Partners with Alphapointe to Roll Out New Transit App for Visually Impaired

Posted on: Oct 28, 2020

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), in partnership with Alphapointe and Sensible Innovation, has developed a wayfinding app to help blind and visually impaired transit customers use transit more safely and accurately. It is the first application of its kind to be applied to an entire transit corridor in the United States.

The RideKC Navigator mobile app is a custom platform to help individuals with vision impairment or blindness navigate select transit stops. Anyone can download the free RideKC Navigator app on their mobile device (iOS and Android) to receive location-specific audio instructions to help navigate 51 bus stops, East Village Transit Center, 75th Street Transit Center and 31 intersections in Kansas City, MO.

The project, which was developed as part of KCATA’s Prospect MAX Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) 10-mile corridor project runs from the 75th and Prospect Transit Center at Alphapointe, north on Prospect to 12th Street, and west along 12th Street into downtown Kansas City.

“Our partnership with Alphapointe was critical to the testing and deployment of RideKC Navigator,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “Our visually impaired experts at Alphapointe navigate the real world on a daily basis. Their help in orientation and mobility instructions, testing and tutorials was invaluable.”

Alphapointe is the largest employer of blind and visually impaired people in Missouri, and one of the largest in the nation, according to Reinhard Mabry, president and CEO of Alphapointe.

“This app will open up the community to people who are blind,” Mabry said. “It will prepare people who have visual impairment to navigate spaces and areas of the community that they may not have been comfortable with previously because they didn’t know enough about their surroundings.”

“To have this app in Kansas City is an incredible, innovative experience,” said Jim Fettgather, who is visually impaired and assisted with development and testing.

Key points along the Prospect MAX route include East Village Transit Center at 12th & Charlotte with connections to multiple bus routes, Independence plaza, ReDiscover Crisis Center, East Patrol Division Station, Linwood Shopping Center, Research Medical Center and 75th Street Transit Center at Alphapointe.

KCATA Partners with Kansas City Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes’ 15 and the Mahomies Foundation to Provide Free Shuttle to Arrowhead on Election Day, Nov. 3

Posted on: Oct 27, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo. – Oct. 27, 2020) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will provide free shuttle service on RideKC buses from the East Village Transit Center at 12th & Charlotte in downtown Kansas City to Arrowhead Stadium on Election Day. The shuttle will run between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. approximately every 30 minutes on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020.

The stadium will be available for registered Kansas City, Mo., voters who live in Jackson County. The service is being provided in partnership with the Kansas City Election Board, and with donations from the Kansas City Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes’ 15 and the Mahomies Foundation.

RideKC also serves dozens of Election Day polling sites and advance polling locations in Kansas City, Johnson County and Wyandotte County with regular transit service. Fares have been suspended due to COVID, although RideKC traditionally offers free rides on Election Day.

Find links to your local election board here: ridekc.org/blog/election-day. 

Hours and dates may vary by polling place. Check the links for more details. Advance voting locations are listed below if they are served by RideKC transit. Additional in-person voting options may be available. 

Advance Voting Options

Find links to your local election board here: ridekc.org/blog/election-day. 

Hours and dates may vary by polling place. Check the links for more details. Advance voting locations are listed below if they are served by RideKC transit. Additional in-person voting options may be available. 

Kansas City Election Board (Jackson County only): See up-to-date hours and locations. 

Johnson County Advance Voting: See up-to-date hours and locations. 
Take 499 Micro Transit to get to these locations. 

Wyandotte County Advance Voting: See up-to-date hours and locations.
Election Office: 850 State Avenue: Take routes 101, 104, 106, 402. 

RideKC on Election Day, Nov. 3 

Use our guide to confirm that you are registered to vote and find your polling place.

Then, if you need to find out what route to take to your polling place, all polling places in Jackson County, Johnson County and Wyandotte County will be included in Transit, RideKC's official app, by Oct. 29. 

In addition, RideKC Bike is offering two free rides to help people vote. Use code BIKETHEVOTE20 on the RideKC Bike app Nov. 3.

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KCATA Receives $600K Innovation Grant for Precision Guidance Sensors

Posted on: Aug 31, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo. – August 31, 2020) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) today announced that it will receive $600,000 in funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Accelerating Innovative Mobility (AIM) initiative to support mobility and innovation in the transit industry.

KCATA will use the funds to test an advanced driver assistance system that uses precision guidance sensors to dock at stations and provide level boarding across the RideKC MAX bus rapid transit system. The project will improve accessibility and reduce dwell time, providing a better customer experience.

“I want to thank the U.S. Department of Transportation and our entire congressional delegation for their continued support of our MAX Bus Rapid Transit system,” said Robbie Makinen, president and CEO of KCATA. “This AIM initiative will demonstrate further innovative technologies that we are integrating into the MAX system. The project will enhance the customer experience for everyone while going beyond ADA-compliance.”

"As we face this public health emergency, investments in innovation are critical for transit agencies to better meet rider expectations and adapt to changes in our transportation system," said FTA Deputy Administrator K. Jane Williams. "We are pleased to collaborate with these grant recipients to develop new service methods to improve safety, increase access, develop more efficient operations, and enhance the transit experience for all."

“Robotic Research is honored to partner with Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) to provide an innovative and cost-effective solution for ADA-compliant level boarding on KCATA’s Prospect MAX BRT,” said Alberto Lacaze, President of Robotic Research. “Our advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technology will assist BRT drivers to precisely dock buses and maintain ADA-compliant gaps at all stops, ensuring access for all customers, including persons with disabilities.”

FTA today announced 25 projects in 24 states and Guam will receive a share of $14 million. Nine of the projects directly address innovations to help alleviate issues related to COVID-19-, including contactless payment, social distancing, innovative scheduling, real-time information to reduce crowding and contact tracing.

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RideKC Partners with Swiftly to Launch Improved Real-Time Information

Posted on: Aug 17, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo. – Aug. 17, 2020) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has partnered with Swiftly, Inc., a San Francisco-based big data platform for public transit and mobility services, to bring improved real-time transit arrival and vehicle crowding predictions to RideKC. These improvements were tested internally at KCATA in 2020 and are now fully implemented. 

As part of this project, Swiftly is leveraging existing GPS data from onboard broadband routers and the agency’s dispatch system, Trapeze’s TransitMaster. Swiftly leverages this vehicle position information to more accurately predict when the next bus will arrive, rather than relying solely on the existing dispatch system. Customers and RideKC staff can now access more accurate bus arrival and position information right from their phone, via the free Transit app. This will also improve accuracy of real-time information available at digital displays, including those along Prospect MAX and at 3-Trails, East Village and 75th & Prospect transit centers.

Swiftly gives customers more frequent location updates every few seconds, instead of every 30 seconds. When a bus is traveling at 30 miles per hour down a major thoroughfare, that can be the difference between missing the bus and the bus being a block away.

Transit app is using the same feed to provide real-time vehicle crowding information using existing Automated Passenger Counters (APCs) onboard select vehicles. Eventually, the entire RideKC fleet will be capable of providing this information, which has been widely adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are pleased to roll out another innovative partnership that will result in a better customer experience,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “Swiftly is like a protein booster to a smoothie…it gives riders information that is more accurate and reliable than it is today.”

Swiftly’s CEO Jonny Simkin shares RideKC’s enthusiasm. “We’re proud to work with RideKC to make their transit system more efficient, reliable and seamless. This partnership will empower passengers with highly accurate real-time information and will enable the RideKC staff to leverage big data for enhanced decision-making.” 

Mobile App 

RideKC’s official app is Transit. The free Transit app offers many features to help riders get around the region, including quick access to accurate real-time transit information and live maps with vehicle locations and crowding information. In addition, Transit app also contains a trip planner to help users compare the travel time and price of a variety of transportation options, including walking, biking, transit, rideshare and more. Riders can download the Transit app from the Apple® App Store for iOS devices, Google Play™ for Android devices, or by visiting https://transit.app/. 

Performance Monitoring and Reporting 

In addition to real-time arrival predictions, RideKC administrative staff has access to Swiftly’s robust dashboard for advanced and intuitive reporting and performance analysis. Staff can view real-time bus location for the entire fleet, view historical location information, compare on-time performance of routes, evaluate run times, and analyze the bus speed for all routes. This information is invaluable for transit planners when considering passenger requests and service modifications.

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RideKC Improves Service August 2; New East Village Transit Center Opens

Posted on: Jul 28, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo. – July 27, 2020) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) announces good news for RideKC customers beginning Sunday, Aug. 2, 2020. First, the newly built East Village Transit Center at 12th & Charlotte will open for bus service. Second, starting in August, several routes will restore weekday service, or add trips where crowding has been occurring.

“These improvements will allow workers and other residents to get to essential services,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president & CEO. “RideKC has taken several steps to ensure the safety of our customers and operators, including suspending fares, and requiring masks, social distancing and rear boarding. Together, we can all keep public transportation safe.”

East Village Transit Center Opens

The East Village Transit Center will open as the main downtown transit facility, replacing the 10th & Main location that has become too small for RideKC’s needs. The facility at 10th & Main will close to transit Aug. 2. East Village provides frequent east-west connections to the core of downtown and serves as the downtown anchor for the new 10-mile Prospect MAX line. The transit center will be accessible for people with disabilities and will include one-step level boarding, bike racks, RideKC Bike rentals, and show real-time arrival information. Future improvements include free public WiFi. An indoor waiting area is expected to open when COVID-19 is no longer a local threat. The Customer Service Lobby at 18th & Forest will relocate there at that time. Nearly 20 MAX, local and express routes will serve the East Village Transit Center.

RideKC Bus Service Restored, Improved

In line with RideKC’s Service Restoration Plan, regular weekday service will be restored on select routes effective Aug. 2, 2020. This expanded service is based on a detailed review of current ridership patterns, the need to maintain social distancing, and restoring access to essential jobs and services in areas with no other coverage.

Several routes will have regular weekday service restored. Several additional routes will maintain existing service, with Saturday schedules operating on weekdays, but with added trips in the early morning. Some routes may have time changes. Many routes will now travel to East Village Transit Center as the 10th & Main Transit Center closes.

Routes operated by the Unified Government, Johnson County, and the City of Independence are not impacted.

Detailed maps and timetables are available at ridekc.org. For more information, call the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays

RideKC Announces Transit as Its New Official App

Posted on: May 06, 2020

Riders have a go-to app for real-time information, trip planning, and payments

(Kansas City, Mo. | May 6, 2020) RideKC announces Transit as Kansas City’s official mobility app. Riders can use the app to plan their trip, track their ride in real time and make multimodal connections to RideKC bikeshare, scooters, Uber and Lyft. Plus, on trips that include fares, RideKC riders will soon be able to use Transit to pay for their journey. Transit replaces the RideKC app, which will no longer be supported after May 6, 2020.

Thousands of Kansas City riders already use Transit, the leading transport app in North America with millions of active users in more than 200 cities worldwide. During and after the coronavirus outbreak, Transit provides up-to-date transit information to everyone who relies on public transit for critical trips.

Upon launching Transit, RideKC users see nearby transit options and departure times in big text and bright colors. Users can navigate the region, aided by accurate real-time tracking, trip planning, and step-by-step navigation with Transit’s GO feature. They can subscribe to service alerts for their favorite transit lines and receive notifications with the latest updates. Users can also see the availability of RideKC bikes and scooters in real time on the home screen, or book and pay for an Uber or Lyft ride directly in the app.

Download the app

iOS App Link    Android App Link 

RideKC has currently suspended fare collection due to the COVID-19 outbreak. As fare collection resumes on a limited number of routes, riders will be able to purchase fares in the app, providing a safe and easy solution to minimize physical contact between drivers, riders, and shared surfaces. As a result of its partnership with Transit, RideKC will also receive anonymous, aggregated data and customizations to better serve the public, such as the ability to send important information directly to riders on Transit’s home screen.

RideKC joins dozens of other transit agencies across North America that have partnered with Transit, including Boston’s MBTA, St. Louis Metro, Baltimore’s MDOT MTA, Tampa Bay’s PSTA and Silicon Valley’s VTA.

"The new Transit app will take RideKC's customer experience to a new level," said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO of KCATA. "It's a one-stop-shop connection to regional transit, giving customers more choices and control over their mobility options."

“We want to make it easy for people to hop aboard RideKC. Partnering with a single app that prioritizes transit makes it clear to riders where they can go for information,” said David Block-Schachter, Chief Business Officer at Transit. “During and after the coronavirus response, people depending on public transit need to know where they can turn for accurate information and latest service updates. We’re excited to work with RideKC to make public transit more reliable, and see more people using Transit as part of their daily routine.”

Transit is available to download for iPhone and Android at www.transitapp.com.

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Features of Transit App.

Sound the Horn for Transit Workers: April 16

Posted on: Apr 16, 2020

RideKC is joining transit agencies across the nation to “sound the horn” for transit workers and other front line workers who are keeping communities going during the COVID-19 pandemic.

At 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 16 RideKC bus operators will honk their horns twice, in recognition of #HeroesMovingHeroes on the front lines of this crisis. Transportation workers continue to provide critical service for healthcare workers, first responders, childcare workers, grocery store employees and other heroes who are performing critically essential work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

RideKC is joining transit agencies from coast to coast in sounding their horns, including the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City, Amtrak and many others.

We encourage everyone to sound off with their support for front line staff and all who keep going to work while the rest of the world stops. At 2:00 p.m., you can also make some noise in person or online, with a honk, whistle, or a virtual shout out.

Share a message, photo or short video of your tribute. Use the hashtags #soundthehorn or #heroesmovingheroes and tag RideKC: @RideKCTransit on Twitter or @RideKC on Instagram and Facebook.

Sound the Horn image

RideKC Reduces Bus Service in KCMO Due to Stay-at-Home Order

Posted on: Apr 07, 2020

UPDATE 4/10:  Johnson County announces a reduction in transit service levels to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 while maintaining access to essential businesses and services for riders. 

In response to the Stay-At-Home order issued by area counties and municipalities, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) in partnership with the City of Kansas City, Mo., will reduce transit service starting Sunday, April 12, 2020. Bus routes originating in Kansas City, Mo., will run on modified service with most routes using a Saturday schedule that will end at 9 p.m. Many routes that don’t run on Saturdays will now be added to a Saturday schedule to accommodate our regional partners’ transit needs. All Sunday routes will run as normal but will now end at 9 p.m.

Other RideKC regional services will operate on the schedules below:

Our average daily ridership has taken a sharp decrease since the Stay-At-Home order was issued. We are experiencing higher than normal absenteeism – more than 120 operators daily.  Even with a decline in ridership and higher absenteeism we hope to keep all of our full-time Bus Operators employed during this crisis. Unfortunately, we had to lay-off about 66 part-time operators.

With the region under stay at home orders, KCATA continues to deliver a vital public service to health care workers, pharmacy employees, grocery store employees and others employed in essential jobs. Transit operators are on the front line seven days a week and we’re proud of the work they are doing during this challenging time.

 For the latest schedule updates and RideKC news, please check our website and follow us on social media and at RideKC.org.

KCATA April 6 COVID-19 Update

Posted on: Apr 06, 2020

KCATA continues to deliver a vital public service to health care workers, pharmacy and grocery store employees, and others working or traveling to essential destinations. Transit operators are on the front line seven days a week and they deserve special recognition for their commitment and service during this challenging time. With the region under stay-at-home orders, residents are encouraged to use public transit for essential trips only.  

Absenteeism has continued to be higher than normal, averaging more than 120 bus operators absent daily. As of April 6, eighty employee absences are directly related to COVID-19, with 71 self-quarantined, eight with childcare issues. On Monday, April 6, 2020, we were notified that one of our employees tested positive.

 “The health and safety of our KCATA employees is paramount,” said Robbie Makinen, President & Chief Executive Officer, KCATA. “We will continue to take proactive measures to protect our employees and community as we weather the impacts of COVID-19.”

We encourage everyone to exercise caution and take all appropriate health and safety measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

RideKC Regional Transit Services Response to COVID-19

Posted on: Mar 19, 2020

(Kansas City, Mo. – March 19, 2020) – In an effort to protect transit operators, customers and the general public, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) announces that all RideKC regional transit services have taken a variety of proactive measures in response to the spread of the novel coronavirus.

“As our community faces this crisis, we can’t lose sight of the impact it is having on so many individuals,” said KCATA President & CEO Robbie Makinen. “With every closure that is announced, there are hard-working people on the other end feeling the impact, not to mention those dependent on access to medical care and essential jobs.  We’re not going to run away from the people who need us most. We’re going to run toward them. RideKC encourages our customers to practice social distancing and only travel as necessary. Our partners at the KC Streetcar, RideKC Bike & Scooter and our transit partners on both sides of the state line are teaming up to make our broad-based communities safer.”

RideKC Transit Suspends Fares Temporarily

RideKC regional transit partners will temporarily suspend fares on public transit effective immediately. Suspending fares will improve safety by reducing the handling of cash and touching surfaces by so many people. Participating transit partners are KCATA, Unified Government Transit, Johnson County, Kan., the cities of Kansas City, Mo., Independence, Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Riverside, Gladstone, Raytown, Liberty, Unity Village and Grandview.

“I care first and foremost about the health and safety of all Kansas Citians and urge all residents to practice social distancing and to stay home unless absolutely necessary,” said Kansas City, Mo., Mayor Quinton Lucas. “I also understand that there are many in our community—those who work in essential jobs, or have to make necessary trips to purchase groceries, supplies, or obtain medical treatment—who rely on public transportation to get them there. By eliminating bus fares, coupled with several other health and safety measures KCATA has already implemented, we are better protecting our bus drivers and riders alike. This is a positive example of our regional collaboration to fight for equity in the wake of this public health pandemic.”

 “On behalf of Wyandotte County, we appreciate the efforts of RideKC to accommodate the needs of our residents, as all of us must continually adapt to an ever developing situation,” said David Alvey, Mayor/CEO  of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kan.

“We are glad to cooperate with KCATA and our other metro partners in this effort,” said Ed Eilert, chairman, Board of County Commissioners, Johnson County, Kan.

 “It’s times like this that we see how strong and how caring our region is,” said Independence Mayor Eileen Weir. “We see medical professionals on the front line, but let’s not forget our transit operators who are also on the front line continuing to serve our communities every day. I think we owe them a big thank you at this very uncertain time in our nation.”

RideKC Taking Measures to Protect Customers on Board

RideKC fleets are sanitized nightly with either a misting sanitizer using aqueous ozone or wiping down surfaces with a sanitizer. Hand sanitizer is available for passengers. Educational information encouraging social distancing, frequent hand washing, avoiding face touching and covering sneezes and coughs have been shared for weeks across all of our media channels. Customers are encouraged to let us know if they see an unhygienic surface on the vehicles or at a shelter or station by telling the operator, another transit employee or calling customer service at 816-221-0660.

Misting sanitizers used by RideKC: The misters use stabilized aqueous ozone. The compound is H203. H203 is food-grade safe and there is no chemical harm. Stabilized aqueous ozone is a safe, sustainable alternative to traditional chemical cleaners and sanitizers. It has been used to sanitize drinking water, produce and surgical instruments. 

Please follow our social media channels and monitor our website at RideKC.org for the latest information.

RideKC Streetcar Reduces Hours Temporarily

In response to COVID-19, the KC Streetcar will temporarily operate with reduced hours, ending service at 8 p.m. nightly. Starting on Friday, March 20, the KC Streetcar will operate from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, and 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The KC Streetcar will continue to operate three streetcars, seven days a week providing important access to grocery stores, critical employment centers, medical facilities, and pharmacy services.

This shift aligns with recent changes in downtown activity levels and allows the KC Streetcar team additional time to clean all streetcar vehicles and stops as well as providing staff important time with their families. 

“This schedule modification responds to, and supports, Mayor Lucas’ Emergency Declaration related to the closure of restaurants, bars and downtown activity centers, and aligns our service-levels appropriately. We are encouraging all streetcar riders to limit trips to those that are necessary and respect the social distancing guidelines put forward by the CDC,” said Tom Gerend, executive director, KC Streetcar Authority.  

As part of the daily maintenance routine, all KC Streetcars receive a mid-day cleaning and a thorough cleaning at the end of every day. The cleaning products are effective against numerous bacteria and viruses, including the Human Coronavirus and Influenza Type A Virus. Other proactive measures include installing hand sanitizer dispensers on every KC Streetcar vehicle, automatically opening all streetcar doors for riders, and operators being equipped with gloves, hand sanitizer, Clorox wipes and Lysol, which is sprayed onboard every time a streetcar arrives at the Union Station streetcar stop.

For up-to-date information about the KC Streetcar's response to the Coronavirus, visit our website at www.kcstreetcar.org/clean. 

RideKC Bike & Scooter Announces Free Rides and Free Use for Business Delivery

We are now providing free unlimited 20-minute rides to everyone in our community. Simply download the Drop Mobility app on your smart phone to get started. Use promo code "GOKC" to redeem your free rides. In addition, RideKC Bike and Scooter announces free unlimited use of bikes and scooters for businesses that want to provide their own delivery service via RideKC electric-assist bikes or scooters. Please send an email to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) with the name of your business and they will respond with details. Note: Each person using a bike will need their own account since a smart phone is required to unlock and lock bikes.

RideKC Bike and Scooter is actively disinfecting all devices, but riders should take some steps to be proactive as well. Wash your hands thoroughly after riding and avoid touching your face until you have washed your hands.

“We are committed to the health and safety of our customers and riders should feel confident that their ride is clean and sanitized,” says Eric Vaughan, director of bike share and business services. “Bikes and scooters are a great way to get around town while getting a little exercise during these times of social isolation.” Visit [url=http://www.ridekcbike.com]http://www.ridekcbike.com[/url] to learn more.

COVID-19 Information

UMKC Research Shows Economic Impact of Zero Fare Transit

Posted on: Feb 27, 2020

KCATA collaborated with the Center for Economic Information at the University of Missouri Kansas City to better understand the economic impact of the proposed zero-fare policy. Their analysis states the regional Gross Domestic Product will increase between $13 million and $17.9 million as a result of ZeroFare KC. For those living paycheck to paycheck, as most Americans are, even the $50 income they would have spent on a monthly bus pass will improve the quality of life in the Kansas City area. Read the final report here.

Transit's Promise to Missouri

In 2019, the Missouri Public Transit Association (MPTA) released the findings of a six-month study showing the economic impact of public transit in the State of Missouri. On an average annual basis, spending by the public transit industry, its employees and riders in the Kansas City Area supports 6,310 direct and indirect jobs. On an average annual basis, $786.4 million in economic output is generated in the Kansas City Area by direct and indirect public transit operations. Read the final report.

Transit Research

RideKC Schedules Pop-Ups for Customers to Take Redesign Survey

Posted on: Feb 24, 2020

March 11 Update: The survey deadline has been extended to March 31. 

RideKC released a draft plan of the RideKC Next system redesign and invites citizens to give their thoughts about the proposed changes in an online survey. The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) redesign is one of the largest system redesigns in the agency’s history. The redesign evaluated every bus route in the system to come up with a draft plan created from direct engagement with stakeholders and the community’s responses to the summer 2019 survey.

The draft plan proposes more fast and frequent service, more frequent weekend routes and better East-West connectivity. RideKC wants to hear from you! You can take the online survey about the draft plan at ridekcnext.org. Request a paper copy by email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or by calling 816-346-0300.

Survey responses will be used to craft the final plan which will be submitted to the KCATA Board of Commissioners for approval in late summer. The changes will go into effect in the fall.

Customers Can Attend Pop-Up Meetings to Take Survey

Tuesday, February 25, 4 to 6 p.m., Kansas City Public Library - Central Branch, served by multiple routes downtown

Thursday, February 27,  4 to 6 p.m., Mid-Continent Public Library, Antioch Branch, near route 238

Friday, February 28, 7 to 9 a.m., 75th Street and Wornall Park and Ride, served by the Main MAX, 75, 475, 57, and 495

Tuesday, March 3, 4 to 6 p.m., Kansas City Public Library - Central Branch, served by multiple routes downtown

Thursday, March 5, 7 to 9 a.m., Boardwalk Square, served by the 229, 201, and 234

Thursday, March 5, 4 to 6 p.m., Kansas City Public Library, Lucile Bluford Branch, served by the Prospect MAX, 71, and 31

For trip planning assistance to one of the locations, call the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

KCATA Reveals Honor Plaque Recipients

Posted on: Feb 11, 2020

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) reveals the names of 10 influential African American Kansas Citians as part of the Paving the Way Honor Plaque Program. The program honors local icons who helped shaped Kansas City. Each recipient will have their name engraved on a granite tile at one of the Prospect MAX platforms along the Prospect Corridor. In addition to the plaques, a bio and video of the honorees will play on the kiosks starting in February. The following honorees were selected by a subcommittee of the Prospect MAX Advisory Committee, which included more than 40 people who offered guidance and feedback about the Prospect MAX project:

Alvin Brooks                                         Gregory & Prospect Northbound

Bernard Powell                                     27th & Prospect Northbound

Dr. Samuel U. Rodgers                        12th & Prospect Westbound

Horace M. Peterson III                          Truman & Prospect Southbound

Lucile Bluford                                        18th & Prospect Southbound

Ray Harris, Jr.                                       Swope Parkway Northbound

Rev. A.L. Johnson, Sr.                          Swope Parkway & Prospect Southbound

Rev. Dr. Wallace S. Hartsfield, Sr.           31st & Prospect Northbound

Fred A. Curls                                         31st & Prospect Southbound

Willie Arthur Smith                                 23rd & Prospect Southbound

“We’re proud to honor these 10 pioneers who fought for social equity, justice and equality to make Kansas City the diverse place it is today,” said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO of KCATA. “It’s because they were willing to take a stand and leave their comfort zone that they were able to create the history we celebrate today.”

Prospect MAX BRT will inject $56 million worth of street and sidewalk upgrades, transit stop infrastructure and advanced technology along Kansas City’s 10-mile Prospect Avenue corridor from downtown to 75th Street. It will have boarding stations every four to six blocks. The new BRT line will enhance the transit experience for existing riders by offering more frequent service, traffic signal priority, fewer stops, free public WiFi and uniquely branded red buses. The stations will offer no-step levelboarding for customers and conductive concrete, which melts snow and ice from the sidewalks and platforms.

RideKC Announces Shuttle Service For Chiefs Kingdom Champions Parade

Posted on: Feb 04, 2020

RideKC is providing shuttle service from five park-and-rides to the Chiefs Kingdom Champions Parade tomorrow. To celebrate the Chiefs victory and make traveling easier for all customers, RideKC will offer free fares all day.

Fans can catch a RideKC Shuttle from five park-and-rides throughout the region. The first shuttle leaves each park-and-ride at 7 a.m. Shuttles continue running until 11:30 a.m. After the parade, shuttle service will be provided until approximately 6 p.m. Buses will only return fans to park-and-rides.  Fans should board return shuttles where they were dropped off before the parade. The shuttle bus destination will be displayed on the overhead sign. The Shuttle Park-and-Rides are below:

HyVee Arena (KCMO): Buses will drop off and pick up in downtown at 18th and Troost.

Worlds of Fun (KCMO): Buses will drop off and pick up in downtown at Truman and Lydia.

Oak Park Mall (Overland Park, Kan.): Buses will drop off and pick up in downtown at 25th and Southwest Blvd.

47th & State Transit Center (Kansas City, Kan.): Buses will drop off and pick up at Gillham and 31st. 

Swope Park/Zoo Parking Lot (KCMO/Jackson County): Buses will drop off and pick up in downtown at 31st and Main.

The shuttles will not pick up or drop off passengers at any other stop.

Coolers, lawn chairs, alcoholic beverages, weapons, fireworks and any other items prohibited by the RideKC Code of Conduct will not be allowed on buses. Strollers must be folded prior to boarding. Additional recommendations and restrictions for the parade and celebration can be found at ChiefsParade.com.

Due to the major impact of the parade, regular RideKC service will be significantly impacted. Only 10 routes will run, most with significant detours. The three MAX lines will run every 30 minutes, and seven local routes will run hourly. Service will start at 6 a.m. More route details are available at ridekc.org.

KCATA Board of Commissioners Elects New Officers

Posted on: Jan 27, 2020

The Board of Commissioners of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) elected new officers at the Jan. 22, 2020 board meeting. The new Board Chair is Commissioner David Bower of Jackson County, Mo. Commissioner Melissa Bynum of Wyandotte County, Kan., was elected Vice Chair. Commissioner Anne Post of Kansas City, Mo., was elected Secretary and Commissioner Jim Allen of Johnson County, Kan. was elected Treasurer. All the new officers held positions on the board last year. Commissioners are nominated at the end of the year and officially elected in January of each year.

 

In 2020, the Board meetings will be held bi-monthly at KCATA headquarters at 1200 E. 18th Street, Kansas City, Mo. 64108. The board meetings start at noon and are open to the public. For more information about each commissioner, visit our websit at kcata.org.  

 

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 CEO. The Board may delegate certain duties and responsibilities to the CEO for the management and operation of the Authority.

RideKC Ready for Forecasted Snow and Ice

Posted on: Jan 09, 2020

Kansas City, Mo. -  The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) anticipates the forecasted snow and ice storm may cause hazardous travel conditions and affect our transit service during the Friday evening rush hour and on Saturday.

Based on when the storm hits, there could be potential for service suspensions. This could impact the availability of afternoon commuter express trips, as well as all other service. Paratransit service will likely be affected and customers may want to consider rescheduling non-essential trips.

If temperatures dip lower than 10 degrees, a RideKC warming bus will stationed at 10th and Main for customers.

The best way to find out about schedule changes and reroutes is on our website [url=http://www.ridekc.org]http://www.ridekc.org[/url]. RideKC also distributes notices about system-wide delays through Twitter. Customers can follow RideKC at www.twitter.com/RideKCTransit and www.facebook.com/RideKC. RideKC service operated by KCATA offers real-time bus information through WebWatch. 

Customers can find their individual routes and see where buses are on a real-time map at http://ridekc.org/rider-guide/track-your-bus. The RideKC App is available for Apple and Android smartphones and can be downloaded at http://ridekc.org/fares/mobile-payment-app.

The Regional Call Center, 816-221-0660, will be open Saturday morning from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

New Year’s Eve Revellers Can Ride Fare Free

Posted on: Dec 31, 2019

(Kansas City, Mo. I December 31, 2019) – RideKC is offering free rides after 4 p.m. on New Year’s Eve to help riders get home safe.

Fares on all RideKC bus routes serving Kansas City, Johnson County, Wyandotte County and Independence will be free from 4 p.m. to service ends after midnight. KCATA and Johnson County paratransit will also be free to ride after 4 p.m. 510 and Micro Transit are not included. 

RideKC will use a Sunday/Holiday schedule on New Year’s Day.

Riders can plan a trip at [url=http://www.ridekc.org]http://www.ridekc.org[/url], using the trip planner on the home page. Customers can get help planning a trip by calling the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

RideKC Kicks Off Prospect MAX BRT Line With a Party On Prospect

Posted on: Dec 04, 2019

RideKC will celebrate the launch of the transformational Prospect MAX Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019 with a party on Prospect – Prospectacular from 12 to 3 p.m. in the Sun Fresh Market parking lot at 3110 Prospect.

Prospectacular – The Kickoff Celebration

Prospectacular will be a family-friendly event for customers and the many stakeholders who have worked for years to see this project completed. There will be free food (while supplies last), games, Prospect MAX giveaways and the Marching Cobras will perform. The official program starts at 1:30 p.m. when Mayor Quinton Lucas will make a major announcement about the new service. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver and City of Kansas City, Mo. Councilmembers will be there to celebrate this long-awaited $56 million transit investment. 

The Maiden Voyage – Customer Appreciation

Prospect MAX will officially start service at 4:13 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 9, 2019. The first customer on board will get a special gift. Then from 6 a.m. to noon, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) staff will be stationed at various Prospect MAX platforms along the route to welcome customers, hand out Prospect MAX themed gifts and to educate riders about the new route amenities.

“This is a premiere BRT line that we’ve been planning for years to enhance one of our busiest routes,” said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO of KCATA. “We’ve put a lot of high-tech amenities along the corridor and we want customers to enjoy all the upgrades to this important route for the City’s Eastside.” 

Prospect MAX – RideKC’s Third BRT MAX Line

Prospect MAX BRT will inject $56 million worth of street and sidewalk upgrades, transit stop infrastructure and advanced technology along Kansas City’s 10-mile Prospect Avenue corridor from downtown to 75th Street. It will have boarding stations every four to six blocks. The new BRT line will enhance the transit experience for existing riders by offering more frequent service, traffic signal priority, fewer stops, free public WiFi and uniquely branded red buses. The stations will offer no-step level-boarding for customers and conductive concrete, which melts snow and ice from the sidewalks and platforms.

KCATA already operates two MAX BRT lines: Main MAX (opened 2005) and Troost MAX (opened 2011). Prospect MAX is projected to be 100% complete by Spring 2020.

RideKC Announces Start Date of $56 Million Prospect Max Route

Posted on: Oct 23, 2019

After years in the making, opening day for RideKC’s new Prospect MAX Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line is finally announced - Dec. 9, 2019. The transformative BRT route will inject $56 million worth of street and sidewalk upgrades, transit stop infrastructure and advanced technology along Kansas City’s 10-mile Prospect Ave. from Downtown to 75th St.

“This is a win for the region, but more so for the people who live along Prospect,” said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO of KCATA. “We are thankful to the Federal Transit Administration and the local construction firms and many partners who’ve collaborated to bring this innovative BRT technology to Kansas City’s eastside.”

Prospect MAX will offer frequent service, uniquely branded MAX stations and vehicles, traffic signal priority and fewer stops for faster service. High ridership stations have level boarding, so no steps for customers; and conductive concrete, which melts snow and ice. Prospect MAX stations offer touchscreen technology and free WiFi. Local firms built and repaired more than 40,000 feet of sidewalks along the route. The DBE participation goal was set at 15%. KCATA surpassed that with 26% participation from local minority firms.  

The 75th & Prospect Transit Center at Alphapointe will also open Dec. 9, and the East Village Transit Center will open in Spring 2020.

Prospect MAX schedule

Weekdays, 4 a.m. – 1 a.m.: Every 10 minutes during the day, every 30 minutes at night

Saturdays, 5 a.m. – 1 a.m.: Every 15 minutes during the day, every 30 minutes at night

Sundays, 5:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.: Every 30 minutes

MAX is RideKC’s brand for Bus Rapid Transit. KCATA already operates two MAX BRT lines: Main MAX (opened 2005) and Troost MAX (opened 2011). Prospect MAX is projected to be 100% complete by Spring 2020.

Look for future RideKC media alerts for the following Prospect MAX events over the next few weeks leading up to the launch:

-Level Boarding Demonstration and Bus Amenity Showcase   

-Honor Plaque Program

-Prospect MAX Grand Opening Celebration

KCATA Honors Transit Heroes at Annual Rosa Parks Awards Ceremony

Posted on: Sep 03, 2019

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) recognized eight local leaders at the 2019 Rosa Parks Spirit Awards at the Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland on August 27, 2019. KCATA’s 7th annual signature event honors local individuals and organizations who are making a positive impact on the region’s transit industry.

“The Rosa Parks Spirit Awards is not about the shiny award but more about the shining example each honoree shows in the region,” said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO of KCATA.  “The awards highlight their journey and why they are so passionate about touching the lives of the folks who depend on public transportation.”

While all the awards are presented in the spirit of Rosa Parks, this was the first year KCATA presented an actual “Rosa Parks” award. The inaugural Rosa Parks Award was presented to Gwendolyn Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City for her tireless work for equality and social justice. Her legacy includes improving public transportation to provide access to opportunities through jobs, education, shopping and medical care throughout the region.

“Just as Rosa Parks was a trailblazer in her time, Gwen Grant is that trailblazer for Kansas City," said Robbie Makinen. “Gwen really pushes you to be uncomfortable with the injustices in this country. It’s that push that holds us accountable to provide equity and dignity in public transportation. KCATA is proud to honor Gwen with this award.”

Other 2019 winners include:

RideKC Award

Brian McKiernan, Commissioner, Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas.

The RideKC Award is presented to an individual or organization who has demonstrated great strides in building a more integrated regional transit system. Commissioner Brian McKiernan from the Unified Government has been a steady supporter of bi-state public transportation and was instrumental in uniting the region under one umbrella. He continues to be a voice for transit as co-chair of the Regional Transit Coordinating Council and as an elected official.

“It’s very humbling to receive this award,” said McKiernan. “Especially since it’s named after someone who was such a pioneer in ensuring that all of us had access to safe and affordable public transportation.”

Community Partner Award

Dr. Mark Bedell, Superintendent, Kansas City Public Schools

Dr. Yolanda Cargile, Superintendent, Hickman Mills C-1 Public Schools

Dr. Michael Weishaar, Interim Superintendent, Center Public Schools

The Community Partner Award was presented to a trifecta of outstanding school superintendents.  They were each recognized for launching a pilot program that enables their high school students to ride regional transit at no cost to them. “We didn’t do this expecting an award,” said Dr. Mark Bedell. “The impact is more important for me and our students can easily speak to the difference this is making in their lives.” Because of their leadership, 60,000 trips were made by district students accessing jobs, internships and after school activities.

Business Partner Award

Scott Smith, HNTB (retired) and Mike DeBacker, Burns & McDonnell

Co-Chairs of the KC Chamber’s Big 5 Transportation Initiative

The Business Partner Award was presented to Scott Smith, retired from HNTB, and Michael DeBacker, Burns & McDonnell, co-chairs of the Greater Kansas City Chamber’s Big 5 Transportation Initiative. The duo was recognized for their leadership in support of transportation, innovation, and workforce movement in the Kansas City region. “It’s their combination of professional experience and passion for the community that drives them as co-chairs and they are driving the business industry’s interest and engagement in this,” said Joe Reardon, President and CEO of the Kansas City, Mo., Chamber of Commerce. They worked to bring a broader spectrum of business leaders to the table to really understand how their business success depends on good public transportation. “When you look at the impact that Rosa Parks had, not just on transportation but on culture and society and on the United States moving forward, those are big impacts,” said Smith. “It’s a great honor to receive a reward in her name and it makes us raise our sights very high.”

Regional Leadership Award

Daniel Serda, Project Manager, KC-CUR, LISC

KCATA also presented Board Chair, Daniel Serda with the Regional Leadership Award for his decades of commitment to advocating for one regional transit system. For over 20 years, Serda has worked to push the idea of a strong bi-state collaboration which would enforce the value of a robust public transportation system in the region. “There are a lot of people standing on the shoulders of Daniel Serda and the work he started with the Regional Transit Alliance,” said Makinen. Serda continues to push for community involvement and transparency as Chair of the KCATA Board of Commissioners.

 Lathrop Gage sponsored the 2019 Rosa Parks Awards. 

RideKC Combats Rising Temperatures with Cooling Bus

Posted on: Jul 17, 2019

RideKC will host a cooling bus at the 10th and Main Transit Center from 11:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. today to help customers beat the heat. Temperatures are forecast to exceed 100 degrees today. When temperatures soar above 100 degrees, RideKC dispatches a cooling bus at 10th and Main. When temperatures drop below 10 degrees, a heating bus is stationed at the same location.

Passengers will not be charged a fare to board the cooling bus.

Free RideKC Shuttles Will Move Thousands of KC Air Show Fans

Posted on: Jul 05, 2019

Buck O’Neil Bridge closed to all vehicles except RideKC Shuttles

(Kansas City, Mo. I July 5, 2019) - RideKC shuttles will transport thousands of fans to the 2019 KC Air Show on Saturday, July 6 and Sunday, July 7 at the Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport. The free shuttles will start at 8 a.m. and will continue until 6:30 p.m. on both days. Shuttles will arrive and depart from three free parking locations, 7th and Baltimore (J.E. Dunn Garage), Hy-Vee Arena (old Kemper Arena) and 11th and Oak (Ed Wolf Garage). There will be volunteers stationed at each location to help fans navigate to the Air Show using the shuttles. 

The Buck O’Neil Bridge will be closed to all traffic and only RideKC shuttles will be able to drive over the bridge. RideKC is providing 80 air-conditioned buses for shuttles. Please plan to arrive at the shuttle locations early as there may be long lines waiting to load the buses. The Downtown Streetcar will be running during the event. Attendees can use the North Loop stop at 7th and Main to exit the KC Streetcar and get on the shuttle at 7th and Baltimore. Downloadable maps of the parking locations are available on the KC Air Show website.

Gates open at 9 a.m. on both show days. Aerial performances are scheduled to start at approximately 10:30 a.m. Gates will close at approximately 5 p.m. each day.

The famed Blue Angels are performing, as well as the U.S. Army Golden Knights, A-10 Demo Team, Patty Wagstaff, Julie Clark, and many more. Fans will see two days of world-class aerobatic performances, military jet demonstrations and thrilling entertainment for the entire family.

Bus with KC Air Show advertisement, showing the Blue Angels

RideKC Cuts Route to Southwest Johnson County

Posted on: Jun 25, 2019

RideKC will eliminate the 596 3-Trails-Edgerton route, which takes passengers from south Kansas City, Mo. to southwest Johnson County, Kan., on July 1, 2019. The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) grant that funded the route during its first year of operation will end and no new funding has been identified.

“The 3-Trails-Edgerton route was a partnership with KDOT using one-time funding to explore the demand for commuter transit service in an area not previously served,” said Josh Powers, business liaison for Johnson County. “Now that the pilot has ended, the ridership wasn’t sufficient to include the route as a permanent part of our system.”

Service to Gardner, Kan., and Edgerton, Kan., will still be provided by the 595 Gardner-OP Express route. This route is accessible from 3-Trails Transit Center by taking either the Troost MAX to downtown Kansas City or by taking the 75 75th Street route to the Waldo MAX station (Broadway at 74th Terrace) and then either the 475 Quivira-75th Street or the 495 95th Street to Oak Park Mall. These options will significantly increase travel time for passengers currently using the 596 route from 3-Trails Transit Center.

KCATA Launches System Redesign Asks Community to Take Survey

Posted on: Jun 06, 2019

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has initiated one of the largest system redesigns – RideKC Next – in the agency’s history. The goal of the project is to make sure the network reflects the needs, priorities and values of the people who live and work in Kansas City today.

“This system redesign differs from past initiatives as it will draw from a menu of mobility options, not just bus service,” said Robbie Makinen, president and CEO of KCATA. “This first step is the community’s opportunity to take a survey that will help KCATA build an innovative transit network for the next 20 years, not the last 20.”

The RideKC Next project includes an analysis of current transit operations’ efficiency and effectiveness, consideration of new mobility options, a look at public/private partnership opportunities, and public outreach and engagement.

RideKC Next has three steps. Step one is to review existing transit service and conduct initial public outreach. An online survey is vital to this process and will help shape options for the future. Residents can take the survey in English or Spanish at ridekcnext.org through July. The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete.

Step two is presenting the draft plan and seeking additional public comment.

Step three is submitting the final plan to KCATA for review and approval by the Board of Commissioners.

For more information about RideKC Next, please visit http://ridekcnext.org/.  To request a printed copy of the survey call 816-346-0300 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

KCMO Voters Can Ride to the Polls for Free on June 18

Posted on: Jun 06, 2019

RideKC is offering voters heading to the polls in Kansas City, Mo., free rides on election day June 18, 2019. 

Fares on KCATA RideKC bus routes serving Kansas City, Mo., will be free all day. KCATA paratransit offered by KCATA will also be free to ride. 

To find your polling place and check your voter status, Kansas City residents in Jackson County can visit the Kansas City Election Board website, [url=http://www.kceb.org/]http://www.kceb.org/[/url]. For other locations in Missouri, start with the Secretary of State’s website, [url=http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/govotemissouri/]http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/govotemissouri/[/url].

Customers can plan their travel early. For help planning your trip, call 816-221-0660 and be ready to provide the starting address and the address of your polling place. Customers can also plan a trip with Google Transit trip planner, available on the home page of RideKC.org. The Regional Transit Call Center is also open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m

May 28: Pride + RideKC = PrideKC

Posted on: May 21, 2019

Media Alert

The RideKC transit team is showing off their pride this June

WHAT: During the month of June, RideKC will be PrideKC as we invite you to ride along on the PrideKC vehicles and celebrate diversity, inclusion and safety all month long.  
PrideKC will kick-off with an event that will unveil the PrideKC illustrated public transit vehicles, as well as have music, refreshments, photo opportunities with the rainbow-wrapped vehicles, free on-site health assessments, PrideKC details and future events, and how you can get involved.  Limited edition PrideKC swag will also be available for purchase.

WHEN:  The PrideKC kick-off is Tuesday, May 28, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The event is open to the public and will take place rain or shine. 

WHERE: The Union Station KC Streetcar stop on the west side of Main Street and north of Pershing Road.  

WHO: Special guests include members from the Office of Congressman Cleaver and the Office of Congresswoman Sharice Davids, Mayor Sly James, City Councilmembers, the Kansas City Health Department, the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce, KC Regional Transit Alliance, PrideKC sponsors,  RideKC team members and many more. 

WHY: The month of June is celebrated nationally as Pride Month for the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as Safety Month through the National Safety Council. We want to share the message that RideKC welcomes everyone and strives to provide a safe and inclusive place for our employees, customers and region. We stand together against violence and discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, race or religion, and work together to make all modes of transportation a safe and enjoyable experience. 

PrideKC is made possible by the generous support of our local sponsors and community partners: The Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce; KC Regional Transit Alliance; Burns & McDonnell; PortKC;HNTB; Quintessential Events; River City Rebar; WeWork; WSP; TranSystems; and TREKK Design Group. A special thanks to Union Station for helping to host this event. 

For PrideKC media inquiries, please contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). The KC Streetcar is online at www.kcstreetcar.org.  Also visit RideKC at www.ridekc.org. 

RideKC Expands Free Student Pass Pilot Program to North Kansas City

Posted on: May 13, 2019

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) is expanding its Student Pass pilot to the four North Kansas City High Schools starting in the Fall of 2019. KCATA will welcome the new school district to the program in a pep-rally style news conference at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at Oak Park High School at 825 NE 79th Terr., Kansas City, Mo. 64118. The Student Pass Program kicked off last year with three school districts south of the river. Due to its success, the program will now expand to Oak Park, Winnetonka, Staley and North Kansas City high schools.

“Talent knows no zip code; but opportunity does,” said Robbie Makinen, CEO of KCATA. “We want students to have access to transit whether they live north or south of the river. They all deserve access to transit.”  

The pilot partnership between KCATA, Kansas City Public Schools, Hickman Mills C-1 School District and Center Public School District will continue for the upcoming school year. High school students in the pilot program took 40,000 trips so far.

“We are so excited about this partnership with KCATA. This will open up a variety of opportunities for many NKCS students for whom transportation may have been a barrier,” said Dr. Dan Clemens, Superintendent North Kansas City Schools. “The student bus pass program will be another tool our students can use to further their success in our district and beyond.”

For more information regarding RideKC service, please visit RideKC.org. If you have questions about your student’s participation in the program, please contact your school.

Is North Oak Ready for MAX? RideKC Seeks Customer Input

Posted on: May 02, 2019

Note: The outdoor meeting for Wednesday evening, May 8, at Boardwalk Square has been CANCELED due to predicted storms. 

RideKC is giving riders the opportunity to help shape the future of transit on North Oak in a series of pop-up meetings this month. Feedback given at the upcoming meetings will help shape the North Oak Study which will give recommendations on how transit can better serve the North Oak Corridor and surrounding neighborhoods from downtown Kansas City, through North Kansas City and Gladstone.

The study will consider the feasibility of a MAX-level transit investment in the corridor. MAX is RideKC’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service that includes high service levels, increased rider amenities, and rail-like stations. There is currently a Main MAX, Troost MAX and Prospect MAX is under construction.

Customers can give their feedback at one of the following three sessions.

Thursday, May 2, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at North Kansas City YMCA, 1999 Iron Street, North Kansas City, Mo.
Saturday, May 4, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Gladstone Community Center, 6901 N. Holmes, Gladstone, Mo.
CANCELED due to weather: Wednesday, May 8

For more detailed information or to provide feedback, attend one of the meetings, call 816-346-0300, or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

RideKC Promotes National Get on Board Day with Free Giveaways

Posted on: Apr 23, 2019

National Get on Board Day is Thursday, April 25, 2019 and RideKC is asking passengers to join in the activities and win some RideKC swag at various locations between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

RideKC is setting up four locations along the Streetcar line where riders can pick up cards and collect stickers. Passengers can use the Streetcar or take a RideKC bus to get stickers at the following locations:

RideKC Bus and MAX will be at 3rd & Grand

RideKC Bike will be at Union Station

RideKC Streetcar will be at Union Station

Once all the stickers are collected, passengers turn in the card at one of the stations to win cool RideKC swag. Employees will be at each location to show customers how to ride, how to use the bike racks on the buses, and they’ll be there to answer transit-related questions and help with trip planning.

National Get on Board Day is a day that encourages people to support public transportation and showcases the benefits it brings to communities.  34 million people use public transportation every weekday across the country.

“We support National Get on Board day and its goal of showing how important transit is to communities,” said Robbie Makinen, CEO of KCATA. “It’s about more than just putting buses on the streets; we want to continue to help change the lives of veterans, students and to connect people to opportunities.

Across the region, RideKC provides local and express routes, on-demand, bus rapid transit, paratransit, and micro transit service. RideKC operates 79 bus routes and one streetcar line providing 14 million passenger trips across the region.

“We are encouraging everyone to get on board with public transit,” said Tom Gerend, executive director with the KC Streetcar Authority.  “Public transit is about connecting people to their community, employment, activity centers and opportunities. Public transit gives people the freedom to explore the Kansas City region whether by KC Streetcar, bus or bike,” continued Gerend. 

For more information on National Get on Board Day check out APTA.com.

KCMO Voters Can Ride to the Polls for Free on April 2

Posted on: Mar 28, 2019

Voters heading to the polls in Kansas City, Mo., can catch RideKC transit for free on April 2, 2019, for the City’s elections.

“Exercising the right to vote is so important that we want to make it as easy as possible to get to the polls,” said KCATA President and CEO Robbie Makinen. “It’s about connecting people to opportunities, including the opportunity to vote for candidates that will ultimately affect their future.”

On Election Day, fares on KCATA RideKC bus routes serving Kansas City, Mo., will be free. KCATA paratransit offered by KCATA will also be free to ride. 

To find your polling place and check your voter status, Kansas City residents in Jackson County can visit the Kansas City Election Board website, [url=http://www.kceb.org/]http://www.kceb.org/[/url]. For other locations in Missouri, start with the Secretary of State’s website, [url=http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/govotemissouri/]http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/govotemissouri/[/url].

Customers can plan their travel early. For help planning your trip, call 816-221-0660 and be ready to provide the starting address and the address of your polling place. Customers can also plan a trip with Google Transit trip planner, available on the home page of RideKC.org. The Regional Transit Call Center is also open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

RideKC Welcomes Grandview to the Regional Transit System

Posted on: Mar 27, 2019

RideKC will welcome the City of Grandview to the regional transit system at a kickoff event for the start of new service extending into Grandview on Monday, April 1, 2019, at 10 a.m. in the parking lot of the Burlington store of Truman’s Marketplace at 12400 15th Street.

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) CEO Robbie Makinen, KCATA Board Vice-Chair David Bower and Grandview Mayor Leonard Jones will attend the official “opening day” of the 29 Blue Ridge Limited, which extends service into Grandview as part of a pilot program.

“This new express route connects Grandview residents to opportunities throughout the region,” said Makinen. “This partnership is yet another positive move for regional transit taking place throughout our bistate area.”

The extension will run northbound to Downtown Kansas City and southbound to Grandview twice a day, Monday through Friday in the early morning and late afternoon. Buses run every 30 minutes.

Grandview Public Works Director Dennis Randolph applied for the $250,000 grant that will fund the extended route for three years.

"In building a sustainable community we need to provide for a variety of means of transportation, which is exactly what we're doing," explains Randolph.

Grandview destinations include Truman's Marketplace, Mid-Continent Public Library and City Hall. 

Travel Downtown All Day for 3 Bucks During Big 12 Basketball Tournament

Posted on: Mar 12, 2019

RideKC offers an all-day transit pass that lets fans travel around Downtown during the Big 12 tournament at the Sprint Center, 1407 Grand for just $3. Fans can take the Main MAX from Crown Center, Westport, The Plaza and Waldo and ride to the Sprint Center for $3 all day from March 13 -16. Fans will get to ride the new Main MAX buses featuring new lighting, vinyl seats, USB charging ports and monitors.

RideKC has three fare options. Regular fare is $1.50 per ride and includes a free two-hour transfer on request. An all-day pass costs $3 and can be purchased on the bus. Three-Day Visitor Passes are available for $8 at KCATA offices, 1200 E. 18th Street. You can pay your fare with the RideKC app, available in the Apple app store and in Google Play.

Main MAX will take fans to the Sprint Center on Northbound buses from Crown Center, Westport, The Plaza and Waldo. The drop off is at 12th & Grand. Southbound buses from 3rd & Grand will stop at 11th & Grand.

Due to the closure of Grand at Sprint Center, several bus routes will detour to Oak, including Main MAX. Details are available on the RideKC website.

For further information, visit us online at [url=http://www.RideKC.org]http://www.RideKC.org[/url] or call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Free Fares For Furloughed Workers End February 15, 2019

Posted on: Feb 07, 2019

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) announces it will end free fares for furloughed federal government workers on February 15, 2019. The KCATA started the free fares on Jan. 14, 2019. Approximately 1,300 rides were taken by furloughed government employees affected by the shutdown.

KCATA Board of Commissioners Elects Officers

Posted on: Jan 31, 2019

(Kansas City, Mo. I Jan. 31, 2019) The Board of Commissioners of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) elected new officers and welcomed a new commissioner at the Jan. 30, 2019 board meeting. The commissioners re-elected Daniel Serda and David Bower to serve as Chairman and Vice Chairman respectively. Melissa Bynum will serve as Treasurer and Anne Post was elected Secretary. Commissioners are nominated at the end of the year and officially elected in January of each year.

Attorney Louie Wright Replaced Judge Sims

Louie A. Wright has been appointed to represent Clay County, Missouri on the KCATA Board, replacing retiring commissioner Judge Thomas E. Sims.

Wright operates his own law practice, Wright Law Offices, LLC, and is an Adjunct Professor at UMKC School of Law, where he teaches Labor Law. He is admitted to practice law in Missouri, Kansas and Colorado, and focuses on labor law and negotiations.

Currently, he is General Counsel to Local No. 42 of the International Association of Firefighters that represents public employees in twelve separate political subdivisions. Wright is currently Chair of Kansas City’s Health Care Trust and the City’s Workers’ Compensation Board. He also serves on the Firefighters’ Pension Board.

Wright holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. He also holds a Juris Doctor (with Distinction) from the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Law.

Wright is retired from the Kansas City Fire Department and previously served as the President of Local No. 42. He also served on the IAFF International Executive Board until 2008 representing members in Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas; and he has also served on the Executive Boards of the Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO and the Missouri AFL-CIO.

Wright resides in Kansas City, Missouri, with his wife Melinda. He has two adult children who both live in New York City.

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 CEO. The Board may delegate certain duties and responsibilities to the CEO for the management and operation of the Authority.

KCATA Honors 76 Bus Operators for Distinguished Service

Posted on: Jan 31, 2019

(Kansas City, Mo. I Jan. 31, 2019) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will honor 76 bus operators for keeping passengers safe and providing excellent customer service during the annual Distinguished Driver Awards on Feb. 1, 2019, at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. at 1350 E. 17th St.
(Media should check in with the guard post to receive instructions on where to go.)

This year’s winners will receive awards for having no avoidable vehicle or passenger accidents. The operators also exhibited great customer service and received no write-ups or suspensions. They also had good attendance and arrived on time for work every day.   

The Distinguished Drivers ceremony honors operators in several categories listed below.

2018 Meritorious Driver -This operator has earned distinguished driver status for 15 years.
- Gary Blaylock

2018 Grand Master Drivers - These two operators earned Distinguished Driver status for 10 years.
- Laverne White
- Regina Miller

2018 Master Drivers – These operators earned Master Driver status for five years.
- Michael Kolie
- Brian Dyer
- Geran McConnell
- Michael Barton
- Brenda Hinton

68 other operators will be awarded the Distinguished Driver award.

KCATA CEO Robbie Makinen and other management staff will address the award winners.

 

RideKC Celebrates First New Route in Kansas City, Kansas in Over a Decade

Posted on: Jan 07, 2019

RideKC will hold a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the new 118 18th Street Route on Jan. 8, 2019, at 10 a.m. in front of Fast Fred’s Supermarket at 1806 N. 18th Street to celebrate the first new transit service operated by the Unified Government (UG) of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kan., in over 10 years.

The route started Jan. 2, 2019 and is the first all-day route from Kansas City, Kan., to Johnson County, Kan. It gets passengers from Quindaro Blvd. to 51st Street in Roeland Park in under 25 minutes. The bus runs hourly, every weekday from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Mayor David Alvey, Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kan., UG Commissioner Harold L. Johnson, Jr., UG Commissioner Melissa Bynum and KCATA CEO, Robbie Makinen, will be available for comment at the ceremony.

“This historic new route is the result of a strong RideKC partnership committed to connecting people to opportunities,” said Makinen. “For the first time in over a decade, thousands of people along the route will now have fast, frequent and efficient access to jobs.”  

The new route will impact over 14,000 people who live within a quarter-mile of the route and will be a transit option for over 5,000 thousand jobs located within a quarter-mile of the route.

For media questions, contact Petrina Parker, Public Information Officer, at 816-946-0708 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Get Home Safe for Free With RideKC On New Year’s Eve

Posted on: Dec 27, 2018

Celebrate New Year’s Eve and get home safe with a free ride on any RideKC bus from 4 p.m. Monday until service ends after midnight. 

Fares on all RideKC bus routes serving Kansas City, Johnson County, Wyandotte County and Independence will be free. KCATA and Johnson County paratransit will also be free to ride after 4 p.m. 

Riders can plan a trip at [url=http://www.ridekc.org]http://www.ridekc.org[/url], using the trip planner on the home page. Customers can get help planning a trip by calling the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

RideKC Announces Thanksgiving Holiday Events Reroutes

Posted on: Nov 20, 2018

(Kansas City, Mo. – Nov. 19, 2018) RideKC will operate on a Sunday/Holiday schedule for Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 22. The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s Regional Call Center, administrative offices and customer service lobby also will be closed for Thanksgiving. KC Streetcar will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thanksgiving. Buses operated by Johnson County, Independence, Mo., and Unified Government Transit will not offer service on Thanksgiving. Regular weekday service will resume Friday, Nov. 23, for all RideKC service. Schedule details are available at [url=http://www.ridekc.org]http://www.ridekc.org[/url].

Plaza Lights on Thursday, Nov. 22

Customers can take RideKC to the Plaza Lighting Ceremony on Thanksgiving, with extra Main MAX service between downtown, the County Club Plaza and Waldo. Between 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., buses will run approximately every 10-15 minutes. For the rest of the day, Main MAX operates on a Sunday/Holiday schedule, providing service every 30 minutes throughout the day. The last regularly scheduled northbound bus headed toward downtown leaves the Plaza from 47th Street & Main at 12:09 a.m. The last southbound bus headed toward Brookside and Waldo leaves the Plaza from 47th Street & Main at 11:34 p.m.

Plaza service on Main MAX, 35 35th Street, and 47 Broadway will reroute around the Plaza because of expected traffic congestion. The routes will still take customers close to the lighting festivities. All of the reroutes will begin at 3 p.m. and end when traffic clears. See [url=http://www.ridekc.org]http://www.ridekc.org[/url] for detailed information about the reroutes.

Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 23

On Friday, Nov. 23, bus routes that usually serve Crown Center via Grand will be rerouted from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. due to the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The lighting ceremony starts at 5:30 p.m. Customers can call 816-221-0660 to find a nearby bus stop.

Bus service that will be rerouted include Main MAX, 23 23rd Street, 27 27th Street, 47 Broadway, 51 Ward Parkway, 77 Casino Cruiser, 85 Paseo, 201 North Oak, 404 Metcalf-Downtown, 519 Olathe Express, 535 Shoal Creek/Liberty Express, 550 Lee’s Summit Express, 563 Shawnee Express, 569 South OP Express, 570 Blue Springs Express, 571 71 Hwy Express, and 595 Gardner-OP Express.

For more information, customers may call the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

New RideKC Student Pass gives students free, unlimited access to the region

Posted on: Oct 29, 2018

Free bus rides will link students to job centers and after school activities

Kansas City, Mo. | Oct. 29, 2018 – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and three area school districts will announce a new Student Pass Program that will give thousands of ninth through 12th graders free, unlimited access to public transportation throughout the region. The pep-rally style news conference starts at 3 p.m. on Oct. 30, 2018 at Manual Career Tech Center at 1215 E. Truman Road.   

The partnership between KCATA, Kansas City Public Schools, Hickman Mills C-1 School District and Center Public School District is a one-year pilot, designed to enhance current school bus transportation and allow students to connect to opportunities for jobs, internships and extra-curricular activities outside of regular school hours.

“The KCATA is committed to breaking down barriers to learning and accessing jobs for our kids,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA President and CEO. “Students will be able to attend school sporting events and get to jobs or tutoring without the expense of a car or relying on a parent for a ride.”

Missouri State Senator, Shalonn “KiKi” Curls, said the program will help students connect with academic and after-school programs they may not otherwise get to experience. 

“We know there are students who want to get involved in after-school activities that will help them to be successful in their goal to graduate,” said Senator Curls. “This unique program knocks down one of the barriers that has kept many scholars from participating because now they will have easier access to transportation to get to those school activities and educational opportunities.”

Dr. Mark Bedell, Superintendent Kansas City Public Schools, believes the initiative will provide students with greater academic and professional opportunities.

“This is a terrific partnership between the schools and the KCATA,” said Dr. Bedell. “We are hoping more students can participate in tutoring, internships, accessing libraries and more.”

The Student Pass Program will enhance the transportation service currently offered to students to get to and from school for classes. 

"I have lived in Janesville, Wisconsin where partnerships like this enhanced the school system transportation options. This one is definitely a good thing!” said Dr. Yolanda Cargile, Superintendent Hickman Mills C-1 School District. “I am excited about this opportunity, as it is one that is extremely beneficial for our students.” 

Center School District is proud to be a part of the pilot and has already seen how the program can help students.

“We are beyond thrilled that the partnership with KCATA will serve our students by removing barriers and providing new transportation alternatives,” said Dr. Sharon Nibbelink, Superintendent of Center School District. “This will not only teach our students important life skills, but also provides access to internships and employment opportunities.” 

Cheerleaders, a mascot and a drum line from the participating schools will bring a pep rally flair to the news conference and help get students “fired-up” to get on board with RideKC to access the entire region.

For more information regarding RideKC service, please visit RideKC.org. If you have questions about your student’s participation in the program, please contact your school.

Student Pass event

Nation’s Top Transit Official to Attend Prospect MAX BRT Groundbreaking

Posted on: Oct 24, 2018

Kansas City, Mo. | Oct. 24, 2018 – The Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and the City of Kansas City, Mo., will break ground on the Prospect MAX Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project with a ceremonial groundbreaking at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, at 12th and Charlotte streets (southeast corner). The location is the future home of the East Village Transit Center, which is part of the $55.8 million Prospect MAX BRT project that will bring enhanced transit service to Prospect Avenue.

Prospect MAX BRT will be the third Bus Rapid Transit line to serve the Kansas City region. The Prospect MAX BRT route will cover nearly 10 miles from Downtown Kansas City to 75th Street with stations every four to six blocks. The new BRT line will enhance the transit experience for existing riders by offering more frequent service, traffic signal priority, fewer stops, free public WiFi and uniquely branded red buses.

Event speakers include K. Jane Williams, FTA acting administrator; Sly James, mayor, Kansas City, Mo.; and Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. The FTA approved nearly $30 million for the project. 

“The U.S. Department of Transportation, under the leadership of Secretary Elaine L. Chao, supports Kansas City and KCATA as they work to bring more efficient bus services to connect residents to work, school, and other destinations,” said Williams.

Prospect MAX BRT hopes to achieve the same economic development successes seen on the Main MAX and Troost MAX lines.  When construction is done, the Prospect MAX corridor will have improved streets, sidewalks and traffic signals, and a better pedestrian experience.  

“We’re so grateful for the support of the Federal Transit Administration and the City for making transformational projects like this possible,” said Makinen.

The first major construction project of the Prospect MAX BRT line is the East Village Transit Center. It will be the region’s premiere mobility hub, offering improved daily connections for thousands. Its unique features include level boarding, interactive real-time signs and smart kiosks, enhanced pass purchasing, indoor seating and an enhanced security presence. The transit center will provide improved regional access for those working, living or playing downtown with convenient connections to RideKC’s regional transit services for pedestrians, bicyclists, those using electric scooters and passengers transferring between routes.

MAX is RideKC’s brand of Bus Rapid Transit. KCATA operates two MAX BRT lines: Main MAX (opened 2005) and Troost MAX (opened 2011). Prospect MAX is projected to be complete in the fall of 2019.

RideKC Freedom On-Demand expands into Independence, Mo.

Posted on: Oct 09, 2018

Kansas City, Mo. | Oct. 8, 2018 - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), in cooperation with the City of Independence, Mo., is proud to announce the expansion of RideKC Freedom On-Demand paratransit services in Independence.

“We have had great success with our RideKC Freedom On-Demand in Kansas City and this is another step toward regional, comprehensive mobility services,” said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO, KCATA. “It further drives home the idea that building great value-added services for our riders and community partners will drive public transit success in the region.”

RideKC Freedom On-Demand launched in parts of Kansas City, Mo., and northeast Johnson County, Kan., in May 2017. It has expanded to Wyandotte County and Johnson Counties in Kansas since then, and has provided more than 90,000 trips for people with disabilities. Now with the expansion into Independence, RideKC Freedom On-Demand can provide paratransit users with even more options.

Ridership for Freedom On-Demand continues to grow. By the end of November, RideKC Freedom On-Demand is on track to surpass 100,000 rides. The expansion doesn’t just give users more options, but allows the KCATA to continue building on robust, innovative partnerships that drive the region forward.

“The City of Independence takes care of our people, and we are always looking for ways to improve our residents’ quality of life. Our partnership with KCATA allows us to provide Freedom On-Demand service to residents of Independence,” said Mayor of Independence Eileen Weir. “This will provide another option for riders to travel around the city.”

Riders can download the RideKC Freedom App at http://ridekc.org/mobility-services/ridekc-freedom-ondemand, or call 816-842-9070 to learn more and book a trip.

Kansas City Region Offers Free Rides on Election Day, Nov. 6

Posted on: Oct 08, 2018

(Kansas City, Mo. – Oct. 8, 2018) RideKC routes will offer free fares all day on Nov. 6 to make it easier for citizens to vote. 

Download a Resource Guide for help voting and riding.

“Exercising the right to vote is so important that we want to make it as easy as possible to get to the polls,” said KCATA President and CEO Robbie Makinen. “We are grateful to our regional transit partners in Johnson County, Independence and KCK for agreeing to again make this a truly regional transit initiative.”

On Election Day, fares on all RideKC bus routes serving Kansas City, Johnson County, Wyandotte County and Independence will be free. KCATA, Johnson County and Independence paratransit will also be free to ride. 

The deadline to register to vote is fast approaching. People in Missouri need to register or update their voter registration by Wednesday, Oct. 10. The deadline for Kansas is Oct. 16.

To find your polling place and check your voter status, Kansas City residents in Jackson County can visit the Kansas City Election Board website, http://www.kceb.org/. For other locations in Missouri, start with the Secretary of State’s website, https://s1.sos.mo.gov/elections/voterlookup/.

In Kansas, Johnson County voters can access resources at Johnson County Election Office, https://www.jocoelection.org/default.htm, and Wyandotte County election information is available at Wyandotte County Election Office, http://www.wycokck.org/election/. The above websites can provide more details. For those who live elsewhere in Kansas, information is available at Vote Kansas, http://www.voteks.org/.

Customers can plan their travel early. For help planning your trip, call 816-221-0660 and be ready to provide the starting address and the address of the polling place you will be traveling to. Customers can also plan a trip with Google Transit trip planner, available on the home page of RideKC.org. The Regional Call Center is also open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Free Election Day Rides

Johnson County and KCATA Hold Meetings About 2019 Service Changes

Posted on: Oct 08, 2018

Kansas City, Mo. | Oct. 8, 2018 – Johnson County, Kan., and Kansas City Area Transportation Authority are conducting an analysis of all bus service in the county. KCATA and Johnson County will share recommended changes to bus routes at meetings in October 2018. The goals of this project are to improve transit service and efficiency, and to implement recommendations of Mid-America Regional Council’s SmartMoves 3.0 regional transit plan.

The operational analysis of bus service has resulted in a recommendation for service changes throughout the RideKC Johnson County system. These recommendations are summarized on the RideKC.org website http://ridekc.org/bulletins/joco_transit.

We will be seeking public comments on these recommendations during October 2018 at meetings and online. KCATA and Johnson County may adjust recommendations based on public comments and provide final routes and schedules in January 2019. The changes would take effect April 1, 2019.

Meeting Schedule

Wednesday, October 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Open House at Kansas City Design Center, 1018 Baltimore Ave., Kansas City, MO
Thursday, October 11, 6-9 a.m., Pop Up meeting at Mission Transit Center, 5251 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS
Monday, October 15, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Open House at Johnson County Art & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS
Tuesday, October 16, 3-6 p.m., Pop Up meeting at Johnson County Community College – Carlsen Center bus stop, 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS
Wednesday, October 17, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Open House at Johnson County Administration Building, 111 S. Cherry St., Room LL 200 – Multipurpose Room, Olathe, KS.

At the open house and “pop up” style meetings at bus stops, people can come and go at any time during the meeting and be able to see all of the information and provide feedback.

For more detailed information or to provide feedback, visit http://ridekc.org/bulletins/joco_transit, attend one of the meetings, call 816-346-0300, or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Community Invited to Prospect MAX Public Meetings in October

Posted on: Oct 04, 2018

Join RideKC on Oct. 9 and 11

Kansas City, Mo. | Oct. 4, 2018 – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will host two public meetings next week to provide updates about the Prospect MAX Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. The $55.8 million project will bring enhanced transit service along Kansas City’s 10-mile Prospect Avenue from downtown to 75th Street.

The meetings are scheduled for:

•  4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, Blue Hills Community Services Meeting Room, 5008 Prospect Ave. (accessible by routes 55 and 71)

•  4-6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 11, Morningstar Youth and Family Life Center, 2525 E. 27th St. (accessible by routes 27 and 71)

Each meeting will include a presentation at 5 p.m. with information about Prospect MAX route benefits and features, the construction schedule, safety and traffic controls, access to businesses during construction, and temporary bus stops. Prospect MAX giveaways and refreshments will be available.

“Prospect MAX is not just a KCATA initiative, but an investment for the entire community,” KCATA President and CEO Robbie Makinen said. “It’s important that residents and businesses take a few minutes to find out what $56 million is going to look like in their neighborhood. I’m looking forward to seeing a big turnout.”

Attendees also will learn about the Honor Plaque Program, which will honor community members who made significant contributions in the neighborhoods along Prospect. A sub-committee of the Prospect MAX Advisory Committee has created a slate of 24 potential honorees. The public is being asked to help narrow the list to 10, who will be recognized with granite tile plaques and biographical information on an electronic kiosk at select stations. The public can take a survey at the upcoming public meetings or online at surveymonkey.com/r/honorplaques.

To stay current with Prospect MAX news, join the Prospect MAX Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/ProspectMAX.

Community Meeting to Provide Independence Ave. Transit Updates

Posted on: Sep 27, 2018

Kansas City, Mo. | Sept. 27, 2018 – Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will hold a community meeting to discuss its Bus Rapid Transit Planning and Feasibility Study for Independence Ave. The meeting is being held Saturday, Sept. 29, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Independence Avenue CID, 2657 Independence Ave., Kansas City, Mo.

RideKC will present route recommendations related to Independence Avenue or 24 Highway, recommended station locations, recommended enhanced passenger amenities to improve transit experience and other amenities such as bike lanes.

RideKC wants the community to weigh in on transit recommendations for Independence Ave., along with station style and material.

Transit riders can travel to the Independence CID on RideKC’s 24 Independence route.

For additional information, call 816.221.0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. or visit RideKC.org.

KC Streetcar Main Street Extension Project Advances Federal Funding Request

Posted on: Sep 12, 2018

(Kansas City, Missouri - Sept. 11, 2018) The KC Streetcar project team recently applied for federal funding for the Main Street Extension to University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), marking a crucial step in moving the street extension project towards construction. 

Late last week, the KC Streetcar project team, consisting of the KC Streetcar Authority (KCSA), the KC Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), and the City of Kansas City, MO (KCMO), submitted the formal application to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for the New Starts Capital Investment Grants Program, seeking $151 million dollars in federal funding and inclusion in the federal 2020-year budget to support the estimated $316 million-dollar project.  The New Starts grant program funds transit capital investments including heavy rail, commuter rail, light rail, streetcars and bus rapid transit systems.  Both federal and local funding are needed to move this project into design and construction. Local funding was approved by the voters in the establishment of the Main Street Rail Transportation Development District (TDD).

Throughout the summer, the KC Streetcar project team continued to work on overall project development activities, station stop location and track alignments, NEPA/environmental documentation and development of a detailed financial plan in order to apply for federal funding.  This work resulted in updated project cost estimates influenced by recent market escalations within the industry, forecasted inflation, overall market uncertainty and guidance from FTA officials.  
Streetcar figures

Total project cost for the 3.6-mile route from Union Station to 51st Street is currently estimated at $279 million in 2018 dollars, and $316 million when inflating costs to 2023 dollars, the planned year of opening, and accounting for project contingency. Overall project contingency currently stands at 33% ($104 million) of total project costs in an effort to pro-actively plan for this uncertainty and respond to recent FTA guidance in reaction to market escalations.  Importantly, this increased project cost does not reflect any change in project scope nor does it affect the local funding already in place for the extension, with no additional local funding required to support the proposed program. The KC Streetcar project team is seeking $151 million in federal funding to be combined with $164 million in local funding from the voter-approved TDD, reflecting a 48% federal funding and 52% local funding match. 

“We feel strongly that our New Starts federal grant submission will compete well with projects across the country based on our merits and the proven success of the downtown starter line,” said Tom Gerend, executive director of the KC Streetcar Authority.   “Approved TDD funds will cover the local funding needed to move this project forward, in addition to creating a sustainable source of revenue for ongoing operations and maintenance,” Gerend continued. 

KCMO will serve as the project sponsor and grantee for the New Starts program and will oversee design and construction for the streetcar expansion project. The KCSA and KCATA will serve as partners through this process as well as design, construction and operations. 

As the KC Streetcar project team waits to hear about the federal funding process, they will continue to advance the project planning for the Main Street Extension to UMKC, including work to refine streetcar stop locations, track alignment for the southern portion of the route, and advance NEPA/environmental review. The Main Street Extension to UMKC consists of an outside running track alignment from Union Station to 51 Street, an additional six streetcar vehicles, and sixteen new streetcar stops.

A full report about the analysis and design work for the proposed streetcar stop locations and track alignment, including images of streetcars traveling through midtown, are located on the KC Streetcar website, www.kcstreetcar.org/mainstreet-extension.  The New Starts grant components for the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension application are also located on the KC Streetcar website, www.kcstreetcar.org/mainstreet-extension.  

Free Rides on Election Day

Posted on: Aug 03, 2018

Kansas City Region Offers Free Fares on Aug. 7

(Kansas City, Mo. – Aug. 2, 2018) RideKC routes will offer free fares all day on Tuesday, Aug. 7, to make it easier for citizens to vote. 

“Exercising the right to vote is so important that we want to make it as easy as possible to get to the polls,” said KCATA President and CEO Robbie Makinen. “We are grateful to our regional transit partners in Johnson County, Independence and KCK for agreeing to again make this a truly regional transit initiative.”

On Election Day, fares on all RideKC bus routes serving Kansas City, Johnson County, Wyandotte County and Independence will be free. Paratransit will also be free to ride. 

“Public transportation plays a vital role connecting people to opportunities that lead to improved health and a better quality of life,” said David Alvey, Mayor/CEO of Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kan. ”Also, one’s ability to vote and participate in the electoral process is an essential right that affects every aspect of our lives.  I am grateful to the KCATA and their model transportation options they offer on Election Day. KCATA’s actions help make it easier for citizens to voice their opinions at the ballot.”

To find your polling place and check your voter status, Kansas City residents in Jackson County can visit the Kansas City Election Board website. For other locations in Missouri, start with the Secretary of State’s website.

In Kansas, Johnson County voters can access resources at Johnson County Election Office, and Wyandotte County election information is available at Wyandotte County Election Office. Kansas allows Advance Voting in person and by mail, in addition to voting at the polls on Aug. 7. The above websites can provide more details. For those who live elsewhere in Kansas, information is available at Vote Kansas.

Customers can plan their travel early. For help planning your trip, call 816-221-0660 and be ready to provide the starting address and the address of the polling place you will be traveling to. Customers can also plan a trip with Google Transit trip planner, available on the home page of RideKC.org. The Regional Transit Call Center is also open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Free fare election image

27th & Prospect Building Demolition Slated

Posted on: Jul 25, 2018

Congressman Cleaver and Others Celebrate

Kansas City, Mo. | July 30, 2018 – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority will host a ceremonial building demolition event at 10 a.m. Aug. 1, 2018, on the southeast corner of 27th & Prospect. Highlighting the event will be comments from U.S. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, KCMO Mayor Sly James, 3rd District Councilman Jermaine Reed, and others. The Youth Choir from Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church will also perform.

“KCATA’s commitment goes beyond running buses up and down the street,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president & CEO. “We are also committed to driving economic and community development by making our neighborhoods cleaner and safer. We hope this demolition demonstrates what a good neighbor transit can be in revitalizing the Prospect Corridor.”

The KCATA has contracted with MBE-DBE Excavating & Grading, based in Kansas City, Kan. The demolition of the 4,200 sq. ft. building and filling of the basement area, topped with topsoil and grass seed, should be completed in approximately two weeks. The current site represents a safety hazard. With the eventual removal of the building, it will strengthen the safety and improve the appearance of this intersection and surrounding neighborhood. The cleared property is expected to be more attractive to potential investors, particularly with new developments on the west side of the street.

“I have been committed to seeing this intersection revitalized ever since I took office,” said Reed. “You just have to look around to see the results of what leadership and commitment will produce. I appreciate the longstanding partnership with KCATA. And very soon, we’ll be celebrating the groundbreaking of Prospect MAX.”

Adjacent to the demolition site is the new $74 million Leon Mercer Jordan East Patrol Campus that opened in Spring 2016. Opposite that corner is the Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church’s Youth and Family Life Center. The center’s mission is to help families with tutoring, job-training skills, counseling, as well as health and wellness programs.

KCATA drives economic development

Joe Peterson joins RideKC Board

Posted on: May 25, 2018

Kansas City, Mo. | May 25, 2018 - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) welcomed Joe Peterson to the Board of Commissioners. Peterson was appointed to the Board by Mayor and CEO of Unified Government of Wyandotte County/ Kansas City Ks. David Alvey and started in May.

Peterson was elected council member for Bonner Springs in 2013 and held his position until 2018. Before that, he was on the Kansas City, Kansas Park Board from 2003 until 2011.

Today, Peterson is the Transportation Supervisor for Turner Unified School District. Using his background in transportation, Peterson’s goal is to provide all citizens of the metropolitan area with transportation for their needs and wants.   

Joe Peterson

Anne Post joins RideKC Board

Posted on: May 24, 2018

Kansas City, Mo. I May 24, 2018 - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) welcomed Anne Post to the Board of Commissioners. Post was appointed to the Board by Kansas City, Mo. Mayor Sly James and started in April.

Post is a respected attorney and has received multiple Best of Bar awards for her work while in private practice.

Today, Post serves on the KCATA Board of Commissioners and is the Senior Vice President, USA of Xakia Technologies.

She graduated from the University of California Berkeley with a degree in Political Science and International Relations and received her J.D. from the University of Missouri Kansas City School of Law.

Anne Post

3-Trail Transit Center To Celebrate Opening With Dedication

Posted on: May 23, 2018

Kansas City, Mo. I May 23, 2018 - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, 3 Trails West, Inc. and the National Park Service will dedicate a major transit hub which is both high-tech and historic at 12:30 p.m., May 31. The 3-Trails Transit Center is at 9449 Blue Ridge Blvd. in South Kansas City. The event is free and open to the public.

The new hub will be a major stop for six bus routes connecting riders to downtown Kansas City, Waldo, the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Hospital Hill, Raytown and other sites in the region.

The station hosts KCATA's first citypost smart digital kiosk. Riders will be able touch a screen for real-time bus information and historic  trail information.  The kiosk will feature a constant flow of information about city and community events.

The National Park Service will recognize the stop as an official national historic trail trailhead marking the area nearby where the California, Oregon and Santa Fe national historic trails converged. This event is also being held in honor of the 50 th anniversary year for the National Trails System. The trailhead has custom interpretive panels designed by 3-Trails West, Inc. and the National Park Service that illustrate the historic significance of the trails and stories of trail travelers with ties to the area. This trailhead is one of the first identified along a 47-mile national historic trail experience being planned that retraces the path of the three national trails in the Kansas City area from Sugar Creek, Mo., to Gardner, Kansas.

WHO:

WHAT: Dedication of the historic 3-Trails Transit Center and recognition of the site as the official national historic trails trailhead

WHEN: Thursday, May 31, at 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: 9449 Blue Ridge Blvd., Kansas City, Mo.

www.kcata.org I www.ridekc.org I www.nps.gov/oreg I www.nps.gov/safe I www.nps.gov/cali

3 Trails Transit Center

KCATA Partnerships Drive Rider Safety

Posted on: Mar 20, 2018

(Kansas City, Mo. – March 20, 2018) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority continues its award-winning track record as one of the safest and most secure transit authorities in the country.

Our partnerships with local and regional law enforcement set us apart in our drive to be the best in the country. “The collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies on our behalf has been great to see,” President and CEO Robbie Makinen said. “When multiple law enforcement agencies come together for the sake of our bus operators, riders, and stakeholders it’s a win-win for everyone.”

In 2016, the American Public Transportation Association, APTA, honored the KCATA with two awards.

In 2017, the American Public Transportation Association, APTA, awarded the KCATA two more awards.

“The safety of our bus operators and riders is a top priority for the KCATA,” Makinen said. KCATA is proud to continue the work of protecting our bus operators and riders with unique partnerships involving the Kansas City Missouri Police Department and the Jackson County Sheriff.

Join us on Tuesday, March 27, at 10:00 a.m. as Jackson County Sheriff Mike Sharp deputizes two KCPD officers assigned to the KCATA Transit Security Division. Meet veteran law enforcement officer and U.S. Army Aviation Hall of Fame inductee Chief Hugh Mills, who now heads up the KCATA Transit Security Division, and learn more about how deputizing the two full-time officers will further drive safety and security for everything we do.

“This lays the ground work for more collaboration between RideKC, KCPD, and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office as we continue enhancing regional transit,” said Makinen.

WHO:          

WHAT:    
Announcement of the collaboration between KCPD & the Jackson County Sheriff for transit security and, the unprecedented deputization of two KCPD officers.

WHEN:
Tuesday, March 27, at 10:00 a.m.

WHERE:
1200 E. 18th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | Corner of 18th Street & Forest

KCATA Board of Commissioners 2018 Officer Elections

Posted on: Jan 24, 2018

Allen Joins Board as Johnson County Representative

(Kansas City, Mo. – Jan. 24, 2018) The Board of Commissioners of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) has elected new officers for 2018.

Daniel Serda, representing Wyandotte County, Ks., was re-elected Chairman at the January board meeting.

David Bower, representing Jackson County, Mo., has been elected to serve as Vice Chairman.

Michael Short, representing Platte County, Mo., has been elected to serve as treasurer.

Melissa Bynum, representing Wyandotte County, Ks., will serve as Secretary.

Allen Joins Board

Johnson County Commissioner Jim Allen has been named to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s Board of Commissioners.

The Johnson County Board of Commissioners voted to appoint Allen to represent the county on the transit agency board. 

Allen has served on the Johnson County Board of Commissioners since 2009. He served as mayor of Shawnee from 1993-2004 and represented Ward 1 on the Shawnee City Council from 1989-1993 and Ward 4 from 1983-1987. Additionally, Allen retired after serving as a State Farm Insurance agent for 37 years. He has served as chairman of the Board of Directors for the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce. He also was a Grand Knight in the Shawnee Council Knights of Columbus.

He received degrees from Johnson County Community College (AA), Emporia State University (Bachelor of Arts), and Rockhurst College (MBA).

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 CEO. The Board may delegate certain duties and responsibilities to the CEO for the management and operation of the Authority.

RideKC Receives FTA Green Light to Enter Project Development For The KC Streetcar Main St. Extension

Posted on: Jan 05, 2018

(Kansas City, MO – Jan. 5, 2017) – The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), in partnership with the Kansas City Streetcar Authority (KCSA) and the City of Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO), received official authorization from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to move the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension project into the “Project Development” phase.

“Project Development” is the phase where project details will be developed including refined capital and operating costs, estimating ridership and other benefits, assessing environmental impacts, and developing a detailed funding plan for the streetcar extension.  It includes work currently being done by a team of consultants led by HDR, Inc., which is being jointly funded by the KCSA and KCATA.

“We are thrilled to work with the KCSA, Kansas City, Missouri, the recently formed Transportation Development District (TDD) and the community to move this project forward,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president & CEO. “An extension of the KC Streetcar south is an important part of the region’s plan for improved service and we’re looking forward to making it a reality.”

“KC Streetcar’s downtown starter line has proven its worth and this Main Street extension will further strengthen our investment while connecting our most dense neighborhoods and business centers in a new and exciting way,” said Tom Gerend, KCSA executive director.  “We thank KCATA for their support.”

“FTA’s authorization is an important and necessary step if federal funding is ever to be secured for the streetcar extension” said KCATA’s Richard Jarrold, Senior Vice President Strategic Planning and Economic Development.  “While it is not a commitment of federal funds, it is the U.S. Department of Transportation’s recognition of the streetcar extension project and it places Kansas City’s streetcar extension on their list of projects that could be considered for future funding.”

In addition to the FTA requirements, this phase of the KC Streetcar Main Street Extension project will also focus on:

The KC Streetcar Main Street Extension project will build upon the downtown streetcar service and will support work required to further develop and advance the southern extension towards the University of Missouri, Kansas City (UMKC).  The primary area for this effort extends from downtown Kansas City and Union Station, south to UMKC in the vicinity of 51st and Brookside Boulevard.  The area is generally bounded on the west by Broadway Boulevard and on the east Gillham Road. 

Project Timeline

Streetcar Expansion Timeline

Expansion Map

KC Streetcar Expansion Map

Christmas and New Year’s Day Transit Service

Posted on: Dec 21, 2017

Free Rides the Night of New Year’s Eve

(Kansas City, Mo. – Dec. 21, 2017) Area transit providers will observe the Christmas holiday on Monday, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day holiday on Monday, Jan. 1.

On Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, RideKC transit and KC Streetcar will use Sunday/Holiday schedules. KC Streetcar will operate a Sunday schedule, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve, KC Streetcar will operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. RideKC service operated by Johnson County, Independence and Unified Government Transit will not offer service Dec. 25 and Jan 1. The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s Regional Call Center, administrative offices and customer service lobby also will be closed to observe the holidays.

Regular weekday service will resume on Tuesday Dec. 26 and Jan. 2, for all transit service.

New Year’s Eve

To help Kansas City celebrate New Year’s Eve safely, RideKC will offer free bus rides from 4 p.m. Sunday until the end of service after midnight.

On the evening of Sunday, Dec. 31, all RideKC buses will be free to help holiday revelers get to and from their destinations safely.  Riders can plan a trip at www.ridekc.org, using the trip planner on the home page.  Sunday service includes service in Kansas City, Mo., Kansas City, Kan., and North Kansas City.

Customers can get help planning a trip by calling the Regional Call Center at 816-221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Holiday service

Leavenworth Mayor, Nancy Bauder, KCATA Board of Commissioners

Posted on: Dec 20, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – Dec. 20, 2017) Leavenworth Mayor Nancy Bauder has been named to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s Board of Commissioners.

The Leavenworth, Kan., Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to appoint Bauder to represent the county, to fill an empty commission seat. 

Bauder became mayor of the City of Leavenworth earlier this year. In addition to her role on the Leavenworth City Commission and as Mayor of Leavenworth, Bauder is owner of Bauder Arts, Inc. She was named the Business Woman of the Year by Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce.

Bauder has previously served as the Executive Director of United Way of Leavenworth County. She also has been actively involved in community development in her roles as the Executive Director of the Community Development Corporation of Leavenworth, Kan. and Executive Director of the Leavenworth Main Street Program.

Bauder has a master’s degree business and management from Webster University and a bachelor’s in science in medical technology from St. Mary’s College.

About the KCATA Board of Commisioners

The KCATA is governed by a 10-member Board of Commissioners, five from Missouri and five from Kansas. 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 President/CEO. 

Public Comment Wanted for Leavenworth County Transit Plan

Posted on: Nov 28, 2017

Final Pop-Up Meeting Scheduled; Online Survey Available

(Kansas City, Mo. – Nov. 28, 2017) There is currently no transit service in Leavenworth County. If transit service were developed over the next 20 years or more, what areas would it serve? How might Leavenworth County communities benefit from it? Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), in coordination with Leavenworth County communities and the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), is developing the Leavenworth County Transit Plan to uncover answers to these questions and others. We encourage the public to get involved by attending the last scheduled “pop-up” meeting for the project to share ideas and comments related to Leavenworth’s transit future. Online commenting is available at leavenworthtransit.digicate.com through Nov. 30, 2017.

FINAL “POP-UP” MEETING

University of Saint Mary

Thursday, Nov. 30, 2017, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Mead Hall, 4100 S. 4th Street, Leavenworth, KS  66048

During the “pop-up” meeting, community members will be able to review detailed maps of the study area and provide feedback. Staff from KCATA and the consultant team will be positioned at information tables to listen to comments and answer questions. No formal presentations will be given. Community members are encouraged to share their ideas and comments about Leavenworth County’s transit future.

Background

Transit planning is essential for improving connections to jobs, shopping, healthcare, and other services in the City of Leavenworth and the surrounding areas of Leavenworth County. Specifically, how opportunities and challenges are leveraged for transit improvements will be discovered as we work together with a Stakeholder Advisory Committee, community members, planning staff, and many others through the end of 2017. The Leavenworth County Transit Plan is funded through MARC's Sustainable Places Program. The planning effort will analyze the needs within the City of Leavenworth and connections to activity centers, not only within the City and County, but also to other nearby areas, such as western Wyandotte County and the Kansas City International Airport. The final plan will describe transit improvement options, services, and funding possibilities that will help realistically address community needs.

Additional Information

For more information about the Leavenworth County Transit Plan, the public may contact Shawn Strate at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 816-346-0349. The public may comment online at leavenworthtransit.digicate.com. Follow the project on Facebook at Leavenworth County Transit Plan and use our #LeavenworthTransit hashtag. 

Transit and Pedestrian Access Planning Is Underway for 75th & Metcalf

Posted on: Nov 28, 2017

Three Open Houses Scheduled

(Kansas City, Mo. – Nov. 28, 2017) RideKC, in coordination with the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), is hosting three public open houses for the 75th and Metcalf Transit and Pedestrian Access Improvement Plan. We will hold the meetings at the Kansas Christian College (7029 74th Street, Overland Park, Ks.) as follows:

During the open houses, community members will be able to review exhibits that describe transit and pedestrian access improvements for the 75th Street and Metcalf Avenue intersection in Overland Park, Ks. No formal presentations will be given, so the public is welcome to stop by any time during the meetings. Representatives from the planning team will be present to answer questions and discuss issues or concerns with meeting participants.

Background

Three RideKC transit routes intersect at 75th Street and Metcalf Avenue: 401 Metcalf-Plaza, 404 Metcalf-Downtown, and 475 Quivira-75th Street. Ridership on the routes is increasing. However, access for pedestrians who are walking to and from existing bus stops, nearby businesses, and other destinations at this location needs improvement. During the December 5-7 public open houses, we will explore the range of challenges and opportunities present. The feedback we gather will help shape the final transit and pedestrian access improvement plan for the 75th Street and Metcalf Avenue intersection.

Additional Information

For more information about the 75th and Metcalf Transit and Pedestrian Access Improvement Plan, contact Drew Stiehl, MARC Transportation Planner, at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 816-701-8247. The public may also comment and follow the project on Facebook at “75th and Metcalf Transit and Pedestrian Access Improvement Plan.” 

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Meeting Notice: KCATA Board of Commissioners Meeting Moves to Johnson County in November

Posted on: Nov 14, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – Nov. 14, 2017) The Nov. 15 Board of Commissioners meeting for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority will be held in Olathe. The meeting will be held at the Johnson County Administration Building,  111 S. Cherry Street, Suite 3300, Olathe, Kan., at noon on Wednesday.

The Board is moving the location of some of its 2017 monthly meetings to locations throughout the region. The regular meeting location is at KCATA, 1200 E. 18th Street in Kansas City, Mo.

To learn more about the Board and see a schedule of meetings, please visit: http://www.kcata.org/about_kcata/entries/board_of_commissioners. 

KC Streetcar completes phase one of Riverfront Extension Study, looks to secure TIGER grant funding

Posted on: Sep 29, 2017

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Rolling to the River

KC Streetcar completes phase one of Riverfront Extension Study, looks to secure TIGER grant funding

(Kansas City, Mo. -- Sept. 28, 2017) – Bringing a streetcar line to Berkley Riverfront is now one step closer. 

During today’s board meeting, the KC Streetcar Authority (KCSA) approved moving forward with the next phase of technical work for the Streetcar Riverfront Extension and Multi-Modal project.  The project management team consists of the KCSA, Port KC and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA).

“The opportunity to better connect our city to our historic riverfront through streetcar and improved transit connections is a generational opportunity that could redefine Kansas City and downtown in the years to come,” said Tom Gerend, executive director of the Kansas City Streetcar Authority. 

On August 28, the Board of the Port Authority of Kansas City (Port KC) approved the funding needed to advance the Streetcar Riverfront Extension and Multi-Modal project. The total project cost for this phase is approximately $300,000 and is fully funded by Port KC. 
“The transformation of Berkley Riverfront to a premier destination is already underway with apartments, office space, dog park/restaurant, and fitness courts to be completed in 2018. The next step is bringing a multi-modal connection to ensure everyone has access to enjoy the wonderful amenities the riverfront offers,” said Michael Collins, President & CEO of Port KC. 

The primary study area for this effort extends from downtown Kansas City, Missouri, and the River Market north to the Missouri River and Berkley Riverfront. The study area is bounded on the west by the ASB Bridge and the BNSF railroad right-of-way and on the east by the Senator Kit Bond Bridge. During the study phase, it was determined that a streetcar to Berkley Riverfront was feasible both structurally and financially. The determination was that the extension should begin at the intersection of 3rd Street and Grand Boulevard., extend over the Grand Boulevard. Bridge, travel briefly on Berkley Pkwy, and then veer to the northeast to parallel River Front Road to a stub end stop near the middle of the riverfront property.

This phase of planning will focus on completing conceptual design for the Riverfront Extension. Other work will include:

In addition to this work, the project team is pursuing federal funding through the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery program, or TIGER, for the construction of this streetcar extension. The downtown streetcar line received $20 million in TIGER funding in 2013.

The KCSA, in coordination with Port KC and the KCATA, selected the team led by Burns and McDonnell to conduct this next phase of planning for the Streetcar Riverfront Extension and Multi-Modal Feasibility Study. This work will occur simultaneously with the Streetcar Southern Extension planning. The report from phase one of this project can be found on the KC Streetcar website, www.kcstreetcar.org. 

River streetcar extension

Several Changes Coming to RideKC Routes Oct. 1

Posted on: Sep 27, 2017

(Kansas City, MO – Sept. 27, 2017) Many RideKC routes will change next week, including both MAX bus rapid transit lines. The changes will improve the overall efficiency of transit service, and provide service that better matches local transit needs.

“These adjustments will allow us to better serve customers with direct, efficient transit service,” said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. “Sustained growth in downtown and in south Kansas City, along with ridership patterns, are at the root of many of these changes.”

Main MAX changes route after 12 years

Main MAX will run on Grand from the River Market to Crown Center. This change will allow for quicker travel through downtown, allowing riders to arrive at their destination sooner. MAX will no longer run its circuitous route on Wyandotte, Main, Oak, 8th, 9th, 11th, and 12th streets. South of Crown Center, the MAX route will continue to serve midtown, Country Club Plaza, Brookside and Waldo.

New transit center to open

A new transit center will anchor bus service in south Kansas City. 3-Trails Transit Center, at Bannister and Blue Ridge, will serve as a hub for six RideKC routes: Troost MAX, 28 Blue Ridge, 29 Blue Ridge Limited (previously 28X Blue Ridge Express), 75 75th Street, 99 South KC Flex, and 399 Raytown Flex. Routes and times will change for these lines. 75 will no longer travel west of Ward Parkway Shopping Center to Overland Park during the rush hour. This service will be offered by 51 Ward Parkway during the rush hour.

Added service to south Kansas City

Another set of changes will improve access to jobs and shopping in south Kansas City. 57 Wornall will travel further south, providing regularly scheduled transit service seven days a week to an area that previously had limited Flex service that required a call ahead of time. 57 will no longer travel between the Plaza and Waldo; however, Main MAX will continue to make connections between these two areas. Flex routes 99 and 98 will combine service as 99 South KC Flex. 99 will serve Metropolitan Community College-Longview, Loma Vista Shopping Center, and Red Bridge Shopping Center.

Blue Springs Express removes one trip

570 Blue Springs Express is changing its route and reducing the number of trips from four to three. This change is due to a reduction in funding.

Changes to bus stops, route names

Select bus stops will be removed from several routes:

Several other routes will change names, consistent with RideKC’s naming plan. The new numbering system will be organized into regions and types of service. For example, Kansas City, Missouri, routes south of the Missouri River use numbers 1-99, and routes north of the river use 200-299.

New schedules are available at RideKC.org and on board buses. For help planning a trip on an affected route, call the Regional Call Center weekdays between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. at 816.221.0660.

service changes

Main MAX moving to Grand Blvd. Oct. 1

Posted on: Sep 26, 2017

Community Event to Celebrate Change

(Kansas City, Mo. – Sept. 26, 2017) RideKC will launch a new route for Main Street MAX on Sunday, Oct. 1 with a free family celebration from 2 to 4 p.m. at Washington Square Park near Crown Center.

The event will include food trucks, free inflatable games, and music from DJ Soap. There will be plenty of prizes and catch-themed giveaways. KC Streetcar, Mid-America Regional Council and B-Cycle will join RideKC at the party. RideKC will also unveil its second Scavenger Hunt, focused on destinations along Main MAX.

“Customer response to this change has been overwhelmingly positive,” said KCATA CEO and President Robbie Makinen. “Downtown has changed a lot in the 12 years since MAX started. Riders are looking forward to a quicker, easier ride on one of our most popular routes.”

Changes to Main MAX

Main MAX will run on Grand from 3rd Street in the River Market to Crown Center. This change will allow for quicker travel through downtown, allowing riders to arrive at their destination sooner. MAX will no longer run its circuitous route on Wyandotte, Main, Oak, 8th, 9th, 11th, and 12th streets. MAX will complement KC Streetcar’s frequent service on Main and will continue to connect to the streetcar in River Market. South of Crown Center MAX will not change, serving midtown, Country Club Plaza, Brookside and Waldo.

Due to this change, all times on the route will change. On weekdays during the daytime, Main MAX runs every 10 minutes between downtown and The Plaza, and every 20 minutes south of The Plaza. During weekday evenings, MAX runs every 15 minutes between downtown and The Plaza, and every 30 minutes south of The Plaza. On Saturday during the day, MAX runs every 15 minutes between downtown and The Plaza, and every 30 minutes south of The Plaza. On Saturday evenings and all day on Sunday, MAX runs every 30 minutes, with all service traveling between Downtown and Waldo.

New maps and schedules are available at RideKC.org and on board Main MAX buses. 

Event graphic

Prizes
RideKC will be giving away many fun prizes.

RideKC celebrates upgraded stop with tailgate

Posted on: Sep 11, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – Sept. 11, 2017) The bus stop at Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead has had an extreme makeover, thanks to a joint effort by the Jackson County Sports Complex Authority (JCSCA) and the KCATA.

To celebrate the improvement, KCATA will host a tailgate for transit customers and stadium employees from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2017, at the new bus stop. The Royals take on the White Sox at 1:15 p.m. that day. Dignitaries will be available from 10 to 10:30 a.m.

In 2016, the stop was a finalist for the title of “America’s Sorriest Bus Stop” in Streetsblog USA’s annual tournament. The area of Blue Ridge around the Sports Complex previously had no sidewalks. The stop on southbound Blue Ridge Cutoff was essentially a patch of dirt with a sign indicating it was a bus stop, but there was no concrete or other amenities.     

Now, getting on and off the bus is a safer, more pleasant experience. The stop moved north approximately 500 feet, near the Missouri Welcome Center at 4010 Blue Ridge Cutoff. The JCSCA built a sidewalk from the new stop into the stadium complex, as well as a paved platform for the bus stop. KCATA also added a bench and shelter to the stop.

The Sports Complex Authority is adding sidewalks throughout the stadium complex.

“Thanks to this partnership, fans and employees headed to both stadiums will have a safer, more dignified experience riding the bus,” said KCATA President/CEO Robbie Makinen. “The upgraded stop signals to stadium workers and guests that they are welcome.”

Kauffman Stadium is served seven days a week by the 47 Broadway. 28X Blue Ridge Express also travels to the Blue Ridge Cutoff stop, but with less frequent service and only during rush hours. 

Map of stadium stop

Below: Employees and visitors at the Sports Complex enjoy the new amenities. 

Employees wait for bus

New shelter

RideKC Offers Holiday Service on 2017 Labor Day Weekend

Posted on: Aug 30, 2017

 

(Kansas City, Mo. – Aug. 30, 2017) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority announces special schedules for RideKC transit service for the Labor Day holiday weekend.

 

 

Bus routes will use Sunday/Holiday schedules on Labor Day. The Regional Call Center, administrative offices and Customer Service Lobby will be closed. The RideKC Freedom paratransit office will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and paratransit service will be provided in eligible areas. Unified Government Transit, IndeBus and Johnson County will not offer service on Sept. 4.

 

 

KC Streetcar will operate a partial change in Sunday service from 7 a.m. to midnight, and operate Holiday hours on Monday with service from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Administrative offices will be closed.

 

 

For route information, contact the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. or visit RideKC.org.

Commissioner Klobnak Passes Away

Posted on: Aug 24, 2017

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is saddened by the death of one of its commissioners. James Klobnak represented the City of Kansas City, Mo., on the KCATA board.

“The loss of Jim Klobnak is felt throughout the organization,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “Not only will his leadership be missed on the board, but he was a long-time employee of the agency prior to attending law school. Jim was a staunch watchdog for the community, customers and employees of the KCATA.”

Klobnak joined the Board in December 2010, and served previously as Secretary of the Board.

Arrangements under the direction of Mt Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, Kansas City, MO.

Expanded Bus On Shoulder closer to reality in KCK

Posted on: May 19, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – May 19, 2017) Bus On Shoulder will expand in Kansas, adding a 3.6-mile section of I-35 from Lamar Avenue through Wyandotte County to the Missouri state line.

On Wednesday, May 17, Governor Sam Brownback signed House Bill 2096 into law, bringing bus on shoulder in Kansas City, Kansas, closer.  KCATA’s next step is to conduct an engineering review of the I-35 shoulder in Wyandotte County, working in conjunction with KDOT and an engineering firm. 

Since 2012, buses have successfully used the shoulder of I-35 in Johnson County, Kansas, from 95th Street to the Johnson/Wyandotte County Line near Lamar Avenue. Expansion of bus on should will reduce travel time for bus transit riders.

RideKC buses travel on the shoulder of I-35 when traffic is slower than 35 miles per hour, bypassing congested areas. Transit vehicles are limited to traveling no more than 10 miles faster than the traffic on the highway and won’t exceed 35 mph on the shoulder. For example, if traffic is moving at 20 miles an hour, buses on the shoulder will be traveling at 30 mph.

Bus operators on the I-35 corridor go through enhanced training on how to safely use the shoulder.

Routes using the shoulder are the 519 Olathe Express, the 563 Shawnee Express, the 569 South Overland Park Express and the 595 Gardner-Overland Park Express.

“We thank our Kansas legislators for continuing to provide expanded opportunities to make public transportation a viable option for commuters,” said KCATA President and CEO Robbie Makinen.

 

Team Selected to Study Southern Streetcar Extension

Posted on: May 15, 2017

(Kansas City, Missouri - May 15, 2017) – One year with the downtown KC Streetcar and plans are underway to look at expansion efforts. 

The KC Streetcar Authority (KCSA), in coordination with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), selected the team led by HDR to conduct a KC Streetcar Southern Extension study to assess multi-modal transportation needs. The KC Streetcar Southern Extension Technical Services will build upon the downtown streetcar service and will support work required to further develop and advance the southern extension towards the University of Missouri, Kansas City (UMKC). 

In addition to HDR serving as the project lead, the team consists of members from Burns & McDonnell, HNTB, Trekk Design Group, Hg Consult, Parson + Associates, VSM Engineering and Architectural & Historical Research. 

“We are thrilled to be working hand-in-hand with our partner, the KCATA, to detail specific plans for a southern streetcar extension and related bus improvements connecting downtown to the University of Missouri, Kansas City campus,” said Tom Gerend, executive director, KC Streetcar Authority. “This effort is a critical step towards advancing the region’s transit vision and completing the due diligence that will be required to make this vision a reality.”  

The KC Streetcar Southern Extension study will focus on following:
−    Data collection (utilities, current conditions, etc.) 
−    Refining alignment details (curb-running / center-running)
−    Station stop locations and terminus configuration
−    Plan for coordinated regional transit service integration and improvement  
−    Updated cost estimates
−    Initiation of federal funding process

“Today people recognize that public transit is so much more than moving people from point A to point B,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO. “It is about creating jobs, providing jobs access and providing economic development opportunities. Whether it’s by bus, bike, paratransit, taxi, walking or streetcar, we are all working together to meet the dynamic travel needs of our region.” 

The primary study area for this effort extends from downtown Kansas City and Union Station, south to UMKC in the vicinity of 51st and Brookside Boulevard. The study area is generally bounded on the west by Broadway Boulevard and on the east by Gillham Road. The KC Streetcar Authority, in partnership with Port KC and the KCATA, is already studying a streetcar and multi-modal extension to Berkley Riverfront Park.  

RideKC buses reroute for WWI Centennial Celebration

Posted on: Apr 04, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – April 4, 2017) On Thursday, April 6, buses will reroute near the Liberty Memorial, Crown Center and Union Station from 4 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. This affects a significant portion of RideKC’s routes in downtown Kansas City.

For most of the day on Thursday, streets around the National World War I Museum and Memorial will be closed, and there will be no direct access to the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Crown Center, Union Station or the Internal Revenue Service.

Detailed reroute information is online at [url=http://www.RideKC.org]http://www.RideKC.org[/url]. Routes include local bus service, as well as express routes from Johnson County, Kansas City, Mo., Liberty, Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit.

RideKC buses will provide a shuttle from the perimeter entrance at Pershing and Main to the security screening area.

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

MAX gets fans to Big 12 basketball tournament

Posted on: Mar 08, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – March 7, 2017) The Big 12 Basketball Championship is in Kansas City this week, and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) offers the no-parking transit option to get fans to the games fast and conveniently.

On March 8-11, Main St. MAX will offer frequent service throughout the tournament to the Sprint Center in downtown Kansas City, Mo.

Three fare options are available: RideKC fare is $1.50 per ride. An all-day pass costs $3, and can be purchased on the bus. Three-Day Visitor Passes are available for $10 at KCATA offices, 1200 E. 18th Street.

Please see the map below for stops.

Main St. MAX service to Sprint Center: Northbound buses from The Plaza/Waldo to 3rd & Grand will stop at the Arena station at 12th & Grand.  Southbound buses from 3rd & Grand will stop at the 11th at Grand station. The Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship will be held at Sprint Center, 1407 Grand.

For further information, visit us online at [url=http://www.ridekc.org]http://www.ridekc.org[/url] or call the Regional Call Center at (816) 221-0660 weekdays from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Main Street MAX

Johnson County Reduces Fares on Four Express Routes

Posted on: Feb 22, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. Feb. 22, 2017)  Johnson County will reduce fares on four major RideKC express routes, moving the Kansas City area toward a single, seamless transit system serving the region.

Starting Wednesday, March 1, fares on express routes running between Johnson County and downtown Kansas City, Mo. will be reduced to $1.50, a 75 cent reduction from the current fare of $2.25.

The new $1.50 fare will be available on these Johnson County routes: 519 Olathe Express, 563 Shawnee Express, 569 South OP Express and the 595 Gardner-OP Express.

The new fare for RideKC express service will be the same as the $1.50 fare for all local service offered in Johnson County and the rest of the Kansas City region.

Additionally, the price for a 31-day express pass will now be $50, reduced from $75.60 to account for the lower base fares.

The new $50 price for a 31-day pass is the same as the price of a 31-day pass for local bus service across the region.

“This is another example of how KCATA and our regional transit partners are breaking down barriers to improve public transportation in the region,” said Robbie Makinen, KCATA president and CEO.

 “The lower fare will bring added convenience to our customers,” said Steve Klika, chairman of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.

“We will now have more consistency in our fare structure across the metro area as we create a single, regional transit system that’s friendly to riders on both sides of the state line.” 

$50 Pass

New automated trip reminders available to KC paratransit riders

Posted on: Feb 15, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – Feb. 15, 2017) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is unveiling a new automated system that sends reminders to paratransit customers with disabilities about trips they book on RideKC Freedom, formerly known as Share-A-Fare.

Starting Wednesday, Feb. 15, paratransit customers can request reminders – either by phone call or text message – that they’ve scheduled a trip on RideKC Freedom. Similar to reminders they might get from a doctor or dentist, the new technology notifies customers of their reservation a day in advance.

The new system alerts riders to the origin and destination of their trip as well as their pickup times. Customers can opt into the new system when they reserve a trip on RideKC Freedom at 816-842-9070.

Another feature gives riders the ability to cancel their trip by phone 24 hours in advance of their reservation if they change their plans.

These innovations will make service more convenient for our nearly 4,000 RideKC Freedom customers. Plus, the reminders will improve efficiency by reducing call wait times and decrease the number of no-shows.  

“We are very excited about offering this new convenience to our RideKC Freedom customers,” said Robbie Makinen, president and chief executive officer of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. “This is a big win for our customers. This new technology not only makes our paratransit services more efficient, but also will means shorter waits for customers when they phone the Regional Call Center to book their trips.”

A group of paratransit riders has been testing the trip reminder system for the past few weeks. Passenger Ruby Polk calls the system “excellent.”

“As a person who is blind, I depend on RideKC Freedom to provide transportation to medical appointments, work, the grocery store and more,” said Polk. “This system will verify that all RideKC Freedom trips are correct.”   

RideKC Freedom is the new official name for paratransit services for seniors and persons with disabilities in Kansas City. What was known as Share-A-Fare in Kansas City is now RideKC Freedom with vehicles now branded with RideKC Freedom in white lettering on a blue backdrop featuring the open road, reflecting the freedom of travel.

 

Below: A sample trip reminder received via text. 
paratransit trip reminder

KCATA Clocks 1 Million Gallons With CNG Station

Posted on: Jan 27, 2017

(Kansas City, Mo. – Jan. 27, 2017) The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority reached a milestone this month: RideKC buses have used the equivalent of 1,000,000 diesel gallon equivalents (DGEs) of compressed natural gas (CNG) since starting to use the fuel in August 2014.

The move from diesel to CNG fuel is creating cost savings and environmental benefits. By reaching the milestone of 1,000,000 DGEs of CNG, KCATA reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 1,870 metric tons. This is the equivalent of taking 395 passenger cars off the road for one year. KCATA estimates it has saved $1.2 million over the cost of diesel fuel since making the change.

“The decision to switch to compressed natural gas allows us to be even better stewards of taxpayer money and of the environment,” said President and CEO Robbie Makinen. “We will continue to add look at innovative fleet options to build on this success.”

KCATA has a partnership with Clean Energy Fuels, the largest provider of natural gas fuel for transportation in North America, to monitor and maintain the fueling station. At the time it was built, the CNG fueling station was the largest fast-fill station in Missouri and is still the largest in the Kansas City region. The station allows buses to be fueled in less than seven minutes.

The agency currently has 44 CNG buses in its fleet, and is adding 20 more arriving this year.  CNG vehicles have been phased in as older diesel buses were retired. 

Photos:
Click for a high-res version.

Fueling CNG bus 
A mechanic fueling a CNG vehicle at KCATA in May 2015.

 
A mechanic fueling a CNG vehicle at KCATA in May 2015.

CNG station partial 
Part of the CNG fueling station at KCATA.