Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

RideKC bus 510 K-10 Connector suspension effective May 15-Aug. 23, 2026

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Mon, 04 May 2026 19:29:37 +0000

RideKC bus 510 K-10 Connector suspension effective May 15-Aug. 23, 2026 tim.dodderidge… Mon, 05/04/2026 - 14:29 May 4, 2026

To better align service levels with available resources, RideKC bus' 510 K-10 Connector will pause operations from May 15, 2026, through Aug. 23, 2026.

This temporary suspension is necessary due to fiscal constraints which require Johnson County Transit to prioritize and allocate resources across the system efficiently while we evaluate the entire system.

At this time, the 510 K-10 Connector is scheduled to resume regular service on Aug. 24, 2026.

We understand this may impact your travel plans and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to maintain reliable service across the network.

For route and schedule information, visit jocogov.org/transit any time or contact the Johnson County Transit Call Center at 913-362-3500, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Department:

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News Releases

Johnson County to return to bus fares on transit lines June 1

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:49:07 +0000

Johnson County to return to bus fares on transit lines June 1 tim.dodderidge… Fri, 04/24/2026 - 12:49 April 24, 2026

In coordination with regional partners and in order to maintain reliable transit service, Johnson County Transit will return to collecting fares on its fixed-route buses on June 1.

The Johnson County Board of County Commissioners approved the new fare structure at its meeting on Thursday. Starting this June, bus riders will pay $2 per trip on Johnson County routes.

The county’s fare structure will align with a previously announced fare structure for Kansas City buses through the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority and align with other transit systems throughout the Kansas City metro area.

“The steps we are taking today for our transit network both align us with our regional partners and help us execute our broader strategic vision for public transit in Johnson County,” said Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Kelly. “By adopting this regional transit fare policy, we are continuing to work with the region to provide reliable and equitable transit service that benefits residents of Johnson County.”

This initial phase of adding fares will only affect fixed-route buses. A second phase anticipated for late 2026 or early 2027 will institute fares for paratransit service.

Additional information on the new system is posted on Johnson County Transit’s website.

Fare Prices

Riders on Johnson County buses will have several payment options:

Single Ride: $2
Day Pass: $4
Weekly Pass: $20
Monthly Pass: $62.50

The K-10 Connector route will have a different set of fees, with $4 for a single ride, $35 for a weekly pass and $125 for a monthly pass.

Reduced daily fares by 50% will be available for seniors and riders with disabilities, with additional details announced before fares return.

Fare capping will be available for riders buying single rides via a credit or debit card, meaning once riders reach the cost of a day pass, additional rides that day will not increase their total. See additional details on the fare capping structure and payment system on the county’s website.

How to Pay

Riders will have several options to pay:

Tap to Pay: Tap a Visa, Mastercard or Discover credit, debit or prepaid card directly on the bus validator.
Mobile App: Use the RideKCGO mobile app, which will be available from Apple and Android before June 1, to load funds and pay by tapping your phone.

Cash will not be accepted on buses. Riders without smartphones or bank cards or who prefer to purchase passes in person will have locations available in the metropolitan area to purchase passes.

FIFA World Cup 2026™ Service Fares

Separately this week, the Board of County Commissioners also authorized fares for the Johnson County United Link service that will operate during FIFA World Cup 2026™. Rates will include $5 for a day pass, $25 for a seven-day pass and $50 for a tournament pass.

In partnership with KC2026, Johnson County will charge similar rates on its Johnson County United Link service to a separate ConnectKC2026 system offering rides to the stadium and across the region. Riders will need to purchase separate passes if they want to ride both systems.

The Johnson County United Airport Drop and Ride service will operate during the FIFA World Cup 2026™ free of charge.

Department:

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News Releases

RideKC Fares Return in Johnson County – June 2026

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:08:31 +0000

RideKC Fares Return in Johnson County – June 2026 tim.dodderidge… Thu, 04/23/2026 - 11:08

Beginning in early June 2026, Johnson County Transit will resume fare collection on bus services as part of a coordinated effort with RideKC regional partners.

Riders will continue to enjoy reliable service with simple, flexible ways to pay—whether tapping a bank card, using a mobile app, or purchasing a pass.

This page outlines what’s changing, how to pay, and where to get help.

What’s Changing

For the past several years, Johnson County Transit services have operated fare-free. Beginning in June 2026, fares will return in phases.

Phase 1 (June 2026): Fares return to fixed-route bus service
Phase 2 (Late 2026 / Early 2027): Fares will be introduced for paratransit service

More information about paratransit fares, including timing and pricing, will be shared in mid-to-late summer 2026.

Microtransit services currently operate with fares and are not part of this change.

The goal of reintroducing fares is to:

Maintain reliable transit service
Provide flexible and modern payment options
Keep fares simple and predictable

The KC Streetcar will remain fare-free.

Fare Prices

Standard fares will apply to Johnson County Transit bus routes.

Single Ride: $2
Day Pass: $4
Weekly Pass: $20
Monthly Pass: $62.50

K-10 Connector Fares

The K-10 Connector operates with a different fare structure.

Single Ride: $4
Weekly Pass: $35
Monthly Pass: $125

Note: Paratransit fares will be announced at a later date.

Ways to Pay

Johnson County Transit will offer several convenient ways to pay:

Tap to Pay

Tap a Visa, Mastercard, or Discover credit, debit, or prepaid card directly on the bus validator.

Mobile App

Use the RideKCGO mobile app (available before June 1 on Apple and Android) to load funds and pay by tapping your phone.

Where to Buy Passes

For riders who prefer to purchase passes in person, the following locations are currently available:

Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO)

East Village Transit Center (13th St. & Charlotte)
KCATA Headquarters (1200 E. 18th St.)

Wyandotte County

Locations coming soon

Johnson County

Locations coming soon

Additional sales locations will be announced as they are confirmed.

Fare Capping

Fare capping automatically limits how much you pay in a day. Once you reach the cost of a day pass, additional rides that day will not increase your total.

When you use the same card payment method each time you ride:

You’ll automatically be capped at the cost of a day pass
Additional rides that day will not increase your total

No extra steps required, it happens automatically with your card payment.

Transfers

Instead of traditional free transfers, the system uses fare capping, as outlined above.

If you are riding more than twice a day, this is the option for you. It's a system designed to save you money over time. Fare Capping is only applicable for people purchasing single rides.

Reduced Fare Programs

Reduced fares will be available for eligible riders, including:

Seniors
Riders with disabilities

Additional details on eligibility and how to apply will be shared before fares return.

Additional programs are being explored.

Riders Without Smartphones or Bank Cards

For riders who prefer or need to pay with cash or passes:

Daily, weekly, and monthly passes can be purchased at the locations listed above
More options will be added across the region over time
You can use a prepaid debit card (such as a Visa or Mastercard gift card) to pay your fare, as long as it supports tap-to-pay.

Help and Support

We’re here to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

You can get help by:

Visiting jocogov.org/transit
Calling 913-362-3500
- Option 1: Dispatch
- Option 6: Feedback
Emailing johnsoncountytransit@jocogov.org

Additional outreach, videos, and how-to guides will be shared ahead of launch.

Stay Informed

As fare return approaches, updates will be shared through:

Email
Social media
On-board announcements
Community outreach

Key Dates (dates are approximate and subject to final implementation schedule)

June 2026: Fares return to Johnson County Transit bus service
Mid–Late Summer 2026: Paratransit fare details released
Late 2026 / Early 2027: Paratransit fares begin

Johnson County and its partners kick off Johnson County United

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:53:37 +0000

Johnson County and its partners kick off Johnson County United tim.dodderidge… Thu, 03/12/2026 - 11:53 March 12, 2026

Left to right: County Manager Penny Postoak Ferguson and County Commissioners Julie Brewer, Janeé Hanzlick, Chairman Mike Kelly, Shirley Allenbrand, Becky Fast and Jeff Meyers

City, county and regional partners celebrated the kickoff of the Johnson County United initiative. This effort provides residents and visitors an easy way to utilize resources, explore amenities and enjoy events throughout Johnson County during FIFA World Cup 2026™.

The Johnson County United kickoff took place at the Overland Park Convention Center. Speakers included Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Kelly, U.S. Representative Sharice Davids, KC2026 Board Vice President Neal Sharma, Johnson County Undersheriff Cindy Henson and Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog.

“The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a chance to showcase the Kansas City region on a global stage while making smart investments that benefit our communities for years to come. By working together across all levels of government, we’re making sure Johnson County is prepared to welcome visitors, support local businesses, and create lasting economic opportunities for families across the region,” said Rep. Sharice Davids.

Several cities and other county government partners staffed informational tables at the event to showcase their activities and resources planned during FIFA World Cup 2026™. Attendees had the opportunity to tour two of the buses that will be used in the Johnson County United Drop and Ride and Link transit services. These services will play crucial roles in helping residents and visitors get to and from the airport, navigate through Johnson County and access ConnectKC26, KC2026’s public transit system for travel to the FIFA Fan Festival™, Kansas City Stadium on match days, and destinations across the Kansas City region.

“The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our region, and through Johnson County United we’re working with cities, regional partners, and our state and federal delegation to make sure our community is ready,” said Mike Kelly, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “From our Link circulator service connecting seven cities and 14 destinations to our Airport Drop and Ride service linking Lenexa City Center and the Overland Park Convention Center directly to KCI, all integrated with KC2026’s ConnectKC routes, we’re creating seamless transportation and shared experiences that will benefit Johnson County long after the final whistle.”

Johnson County, its cities and its partners launched the JohnsonCountyUnited.com website, a single online resource linking residents and visitors to information about transit, upcoming events, an online swag shop with Johnson County United merchandise, the history of Johnson County and a long list of opportunities to explore some of the amenities, entertainment options and culture Johnson County has to offer.

Johnson County Park and Recreation District has set its sights on making sure visitors and residents have plenty of opportunities to engage in FIFA World Cup™ fever. From June 16 to July 19, JCPRD’s Theatre in the Park will transform into a free international soccer celebration, presented in partnership with Johnson County Government.

Department:

Board of County Commissioners

Communications and Engagement

County Manager's Office

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News

Transit Weather Services

allyson.johnson@jocogov.org — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:12:14 +0000

Transit Weather Services allyson.johnso… Fri, 01/23/2026 - 15:12

Weather Impacts/Updates

Weather conditions can affect transit service due to roadway, sidewalk, and safety conditions. Rider and driver safety is our top priority, and service may be delayed, adjusted, or temporarily suspended during severe weather.

For countywide weather information and major service announcements, visit the Johnson County Winter Weather Guide.

Transit service impacts and rider guidance are outlined below by service and weather conditions.

Service Expectations

During severe weather, riders are encouraged to reschedule or cancel non-essential trips, if possible. Please call ahead to cancel if you are unable to travel.

Service may be delayed or temporarily adjusted based on conditions. If your trip is impacted, we will contact affected riders directly.

Rider Safety Tips

Ensure a clear, safe path at pickup and drop-off locations, including curb areas and ramps.
Drivers are not able to shovel snow, clear ice, or remove debris.
Apply salt or ice melt where vehicles load and unload, especially when using a lift or ramp.
Watch for your vehicle while staying safe and avoid standing in icy, flooded, or high-traffic areas.
If conditions change and you no longer need your ride, cancel as early as possible so service can be adjusted.

Service Expectations

Bus service may experience delays, detours, or temporary stops due to weather conditions.

Bus riders should check the Transit app for the most up-to-date information, including real-time bus tracking and service alerts.

Rider Safety Tips

Allow extra travel time and check the Transit app before heading out.
Wait in a safe location, away from traffic, high winds, or slick surfaces.
Be prepared for limited shelter at some stops.
Use caution when boarding and exiting the bus, especially during snow, ice, or heavy rain.

Service Expectations

Extreme heat may affect transit operations. Service adjustments may be made to support safe operations for riders and drivers.

Rider Safety Tips

Travel earlier or later in the day when possible.
Bring water and wear light, breathable clothing.
Use shaded areas when waiting and limit time in direct sun.
If you feel dizzy, overheated, or unwell, seek shade and medical help as needed.

Service Expectations

Severe storms may require temporary service suspension or delays, including during tornado warnings, lightning, high winds, or unsafe road conditions.

Riders already in transit will be assisted to a safe location when possible.

Rider Safety Tips

Avoid travel during severe weather when possible.
Monitor local weather alerts and emergency notifications.
Follow instructions from transit staff during weather-related service interruptions.

This includes flooding, icy sidewalks, heavy rain, poor visibility, or other hazardous conditions.

Service Expectations

Service may be delayed or adjusted based on safety and roadway conditions.

Rider Safety Tips

Use caution when traveling to and from stops or pickup locations.
Choose safe waiting areas whenever possible.
Check rider communications or the Transit app for updates.

We appreciate riders’ patience during changing weather conditions. Service decisions are made with safety in mind, and conditions may change throughout the day.

Contact & Service Updates

If you have questions about your trip or need to cancel a ride, please contact Johnson County Transit:

913-362-3500
When prompted:

Option 1 – Fixed Route Bus Service
Option 2 – Paratransit
Option 3 – Microtransit
Option 4 – Transit service outside Johnson County
Option 6 – Feedback or comments

Email: johnsoncountytransit@jocogov.org

For general updates, riders can also follow Johnson County Transit on X (@JoCoTransit) and Facebook

Johnson County and city partners to offer Johnson County United Link transit circulator route to connect seven cities during FIFA World Cup 26™

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:14:52 +0000

Johnson County and city partners to offer Johnson County United Link transit circulator route to connect seven cities during FIFA World Cup 26™ tim.dodderidge… Thu, 01/22/2026 - 12:14 January 22, 2026

This summer, residents and visitors will be able to take advantage of the Johnson County United Link, which will offer public transit circulator routes connecting seven Johnson County cities and the broader ConnectKC26 regional transit plan for the FIFA World Cup 26™.

Temporary circulator routes will operate starting in early June and run through mid-July in coordination with ConnectKC26. The service will offer three routes overlapping at Oak Park Mall and connect the cities of Leawood, Lenexa, Merriam, Mission, Olathe, Overland Park and Shawnee.

The Johnson County Board of County Commissioners authorized Chairman Kelly to execute agreements with those cities today, allowing for continued collaboration on public transit service this summer. This circulator services also will connect with a previously announced Johnson County airport shuttle service pilot offering free service to and from Kansas City International Airport.

“The Johnson County United Link service positions us to maximize the economic and community benefits of FIFA World Cup 26™ by connecting residents and visitors to the unique retail, dining and entertainment destinations in the County,” said BOCC Chairman Mike Kelly. “We’re thrilled to showcase Johnson County on a global stage and to partner with our cities and KC2026 to make it easy, comfortable and convenient to experience Johnson County this summer.”

Funding Details

The funding model for the route leverages state aid, existing federal grants and city partnerships to generate the expected $5.7 million cost to operate the new service.

In an agreement approved by the BOCC today, Johnson County Government will contribute $920,000 through its transit fund, while about $2.9 million would come from existing federal transit county grants. City partners will contribute a total of $400,000, divided among the cities proportionally with their relative size. The Kansas Department of Transportation will fund the remaining $1.5 million of the program using State Transit Funds.

Johnson County Transit will operate the service and partner with KC2026 to collect and distribute fares back to cities and the county on a prorated basis.

About the New Service

The service will operate under the name “Johnson County United Link.” Johnson County United is the shared branding platform for coordinated World Cup-related efforts by Johnson County and its partner cities. The name also highlights how this new temporary transit option will link key locations together in the county.

Service is expected to operate for 35-42 days starting in early June. Exact routes, stops, hours of operation and other operating parameters of the Johnson County United Link service will be announced this spring, in coordination with the partner cities, to best meet demand.

“We’re looking forward to offering greater connectivity for everyone who wants to enjoy Johnson County this summer,” said Justus Welker, Johnson County’s Interim Director of Transit. “In coordination with the already-announced airport shuttle plans, this new route will play a key role in helping everyone navigate Johnson County efficiently and reliably during the upcoming influx of visitors surrounding FIFA World Cup 26™.”

Department:

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News Releases

RideKC bus' 510 K-10 Connector returns to regular service

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 21:03:57 +0000

RideKC bus' 510 K-10 Connector returns to regular service tim.dodderidge… Fri, 01/09/2026 - 15:03 January 9, 2026

RideKC bus' 510 K-10 Connector, that operates between Overland Park, KS and Lawrence, KS, resumes regular service on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026.

During regular service, the route will operate every 30 minutes during peak hours and every hour during middays.

The 510 K-10 Connector serves The University of Kansas via Central Station, KU Edwards Campus and Johnson County Community College. Central Station is the only stop in Lawrence for the 510 K-10 Connector.

During Spring Break, the 510 K-10 Connector will operate break service from Monday, March 16, 2026, through Friday, March 20, 2026.

The last day for 510 K-10 Connector regular service is scheduled for Friday, May 15, 2026.

The 510 K-10 Connector will operate break service from Monday, May 18, 2026, through Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, without service on Monday, May 25, 2026, and Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day and Independence Day respectively.

Break service is specified on the 510 K-10 Connector schedule and includes the summer term, school breaks, and holidays.

The first day of the Fall semester is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 24, 2026.

For route and schedule information, visit jocogov.org/transit any time or contact the Johnson County Transit Call Center at 913-362-3500, weekdays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Department:

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News

Changes coming to Johnson County Transit after BOCC adoption of strategic plan

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 22:20:05 +0000

Changes coming to Johnson County Transit after BOCC adoption of strategic plan tim.dodderidge… Wed, 01/07/2026 - 16:20 January 7, 2026

As a result of the strategic plan to better align Johnson County public transit with current travel patterns, available funding and long-term sustainability, changes are coming early this year to fixed routes and micro transit. The public has several opportunities to attend an information meeting to learn more.

Upcoming Changes Effective March 1, 2026

Fixed routes 563 (Shawnee) and 569 (South OP Express) will no longer operate.
The micro transit service area will decrease to within the I-435 loop. In addition, weekend service will end (weekday service continues Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.-8 p.m.)

Public Information Meetings

Johnson County Transit will host public information meetings to share details, review maps and answer questions.

In Person

Mon, Jan. 12, 11 a.m.-noon: Oak Park Library – Oak Park Meeting Room, 9500 Bluejacket St, Overland Park
Fri, Jan. 23, noon-1 p.m.: Central Resource Library – Carmack Community Room, 9875 W 87th St, Overland Park

Virtual Meetings (Phone Access Available)

Participants may join online or by phone — no Zoom account or app required.

Wednesday, Jan. 14: 3-4 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 20: 5-6 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 3: 6-7 p.m.

Zoom Webinar ID: 872 6180 3056
Join online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87261803056
Call in: +1 312 626 6799

The public can also get updates and share feedback through these channels:

Website: jocogov.org/transit → 2025 Strategic Plan
Phone: 913-362-3500 (Option 6)
Email: johnsoncountytransit@jocogov.org

Background Information on the Strategic Plan

The plan’s strategic goals are to:

Prioritize higher-density areas with high-quality service that is frequent, attractive, feels safe and is easy to use.
Improve transit access in Johnson County for people experiencing transportation barriers.
Ensure service is efficient, cost-effective and sustainably funded.
Seek partnerships for workforce access for economic growth and development.
Support countywide and regional goals and programs.

Restructuring the Micro Transit Zone

When Johnson County launched its micro transit service in 2019, it was the first suburban market to do so. This on-demand curb-to-curb service quickly became very popular. However, ridership patterns and operating costs have shifted, prompting a need to better focus service where it is most effective.

The Strategic Plan revises the micro transit system by prioritizing on-demand connection to existing fixed route transit service in areas demonstrating the highest need.

Realigning Fixed Route Service

Improvements to Johnson County’s fixed route service include system standardization so each route has at least one bus arriving each hour, as well as increasing frequency to be implemented gradually across the system as budget allows. In addition to the suspension of routes 563 and 569, the plan anticipates in 2027 to:

Increase the frequency of transit service on the 401 Metcalf-Plaza, 475 75th Street and 520 Strang Line Express routes.
Implement a new express route connecting the Mission Transit Center to the East Village Transit Center in Kansas City, Missouri.
Consolidate the 404 Metcalf-Downtown route with the 401 Metcalf-Plaza route.

Other Changes Planned for 2026 and 2027

Rebranding Johnson County’s transit service from “RideKC Johnson County” to “Ride JoCo.”
Returning to fares for fixed route transit and paratransit services in coordination with the region.
Providing paratransit service within ¾ of a mile of fixed route transit for eligible riders, maintaining countywide paratransit service and improving/standardizing eligibility processes.

Learn more at jocogov.org/transit.

Department:

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News Releases

Johnson County joins the celebration as our metro’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ picture becomes clearer

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 17:33:47 +0000

Johnson County joins the celebration as our metro’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ picture becomes clearer tim.dodderidge… Fri, 12/05/2025 - 11:33 December 5, 2025

Match Schedule in Kansas City

The match schedule for FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Kansas City is now available. View the schedule of games, taking place June 16, 20, 25 and 27 and July 3 and 11.

Johnson County Government shares the mounting local and global excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final Draw, which gives us a clearer picture of what next year’s massive event will look like here in Kansas City. Along with regional collaborators, we have been preparing for this once-in-a-lifetime experience for more than two years.

Johnson County United

Work has continued on Johnson County United, an initiative bringing together Johnson County and all of its cities to give visitors and residents the ultimate metro area experience during FIFA World Cup 26™. This collaborative effort will help everyone easily navigate through Johnson County and understand what the county and cities have to offer residents and visitors – before, during and after match days.

JohnsonCountyUnited.com will be a one-stop online source for information on entertainment, amenities, outdoor recreation, culture and history. Recent updates to the site include:

A collaborative video created by Johnson County and its cities to quickly introduce our global visitors to the fun, flavors, community spirit and warmth that they’ll find here.
Johnson County United branded merchandise (shirts, hats, water bottles, mugs and more) is available in our online store.
Overview on ConnectKC26’s tournament bus services connecting Johnson County cities to the FIFA Fan Festival™, Kansas City Stadium (Arrowhead), and 15 regional destinations across the metro.
Details on our just-announced Johnson County United Airport Drop and Ride public transportation service in partnership with Overland Park and Lenexa.

Other preparations and involvement

Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Kelly continues to serve on the KC2026 Board of Directors and has been an active participant in its planning and announcements, including the recent press conference to announce the ConnectKC26 transportation plan (read the Chairman’s statement of support.)
Johnson County’s medical director Dr. Bryan Beaver has been named a co-lead of the KC2026 Health and Medical Working Group.
From across the organization, leaders and staff continue to meet and plan with KC2026 and regional partners in various areas including public safety, public health, transportation, event planning, communications and more.
Johnson County Park and Recreation District is ensuring visitors and residents have plenty of opportunities to engage in FIFA World Cup™ fever here in Johnson County. Plans include viewing parties at Theater in the Park, a 16-team soccer tournament called the Kansas City Unity Cup, a Johnson County Museum exhibit celebrating the semi quincentennial entitled, “Everyday Democracy: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness in Johnson County” and the Celebration Flags Project, a new public art opportunity where ten Kansas City-area artist teams will be commissioned to create nature-inspired flags to be launched during the 2026 FIFA World Cup 26™.
Johnson County Library is joining libraries around the metro area on a collective Summer Reading theme to celebrate FIFA World Cup™.

For more information about how Johnson County Government and our city partners are working to deliver a safe, fun and welcoming experience for everyone throughout next year’s FIFA World Cup 26™ event, please visit JohnsonCountyUnited.com.

Department:

Board of County Commissioners

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News Releases

Johnson County and city partners finalize plans for an airport shuttle service pilot to take off next year

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:46:46 +0000

Johnson County and city partners finalize plans for an airport shuttle service pilot to take off next year tim.dodderidge… Thu, 12/04/2025 - 16:46 December 4, 2025

Updated April 7, 2026

Johnson County has taken the final step toward launching an airport shuttle pilot program. The Johnson County Board of County Commissioners approved an agreement with the cities of Overland Park and Lenexa to collaborate on a transit service connecting Lenexa City Center, the Overland Park Convention Center and Kansas City International Airport during the FIFA World Cup 26™.

“Earlier this week, we were very pleased to support KC2026’s announcement of its ConnectKC26 plan, which will help residents and visitors efficiently navigate the metro area during the FIFA World Cup 26™,” said BOCC Chairman Mike Kelly. “A free airport shuttle in Johnson County will supplement ConnectKC26’s efforts as we all work together to ensure that our residents and visitors from around the world can easily travel to and from the airport using convenient and comfortable public transportation. We are excited to soon announce other ways Johnson County plans to supplement ConnectKC26.”

Agreement and funding details

Lenexa, Overland Park and Johnson County each have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and committed $200,000 to the pilot program. These local contributions provide the matching funds required for a $2 million Federal Highway Administration Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program grant, which the BOCC formally accepted in February to support the shuttle’s operations. In March, the BOCC authorized a MOU with the city of Kansas City, Missouri, allowing Johnson County Transit’s use of designated curb space at KCI to pick up and drop off patrons.

The airport shuttle pilot program agreements begin on March 1, 2026. After initial beta testing, the service is expected to open to the public in May 2026. The MOUs remain in effect through December 31, 2026, with the understanding that the program will operate as long as funding allows—approximately nine months.

About the shuttle service

The shuttle will operate under the name “Johnson County United Airport Drop and Ride.” Johnson County United is the shared branding platform for coordinated World Cup–related efforts by Johnson County and its partner cities. The name also clarifies that the service is a drop-off model, not a park-and-ride; passengers will need to be dropped off at and picked up from either Lenexa City Center or the Overland Park Convention Center.

Shuttle vehicles will feature Johnson County United branding for easy identification. The service is planned to run daily, with arrivals roughly every 25 minutes between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m. The shuttle will be free of charge and available for all airport-related travel throughout the pilot period, not solely for trips related to the FIFA World Cup 26™. Data collected throughout the pilot service period will be analyzed to determine potential demand for a longer-term approach to public transportation between Johnson County and KCI.

“This announcement comes after many months of collaboration between several jurisdictions at multiple levels of government, and we are pleased that the partnership allows us to test a concept that’s never been available in Johnson County – public transportation to and from KCI,” said Josh Powers, Johnson County’s Director of Transit. “We look forward to seeing the reaction from our global visitors, as well as our community’s reaction to a new Johnson County public transportation offering.”

Department:

Board of County Commissioners

Transit - RideKC in Johnson County

Category:

News Releases