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RideKC Reinstates Bus Fares to Shore Up Transit Funding

The agency says fares will help replace expiring pandemic aid and keep service running while it pursues discounted passes and other revenue options.

Overview

  • RideKC began charging fares on Monday, June 1, 2026, ending roughly six years of free bus service.
  • The new price list sets a single ride at $2, a daily pass at $4, a weekly pass at $20 and a monthly pass at $62.50.
  • Riders must pay with contactless credit, debit or prepaid cards or the RideKCGO app because cash is not accepted on board; cash purchases are available in person at the East Village Transit Center.
  • United Way of Greater Kansas City opened an application process at the East Village Transit Center on June 1 to distribute reduced fares and discounted passes for children, seniors, people on certain public assistance programs, Medicare cardholders and some people with disabilities.
  • KCATA officials say fares are needed as federal pandemic funding expires and warn that further route cuts are planned for September if the new revenue and savings do not close the agency’s budget gap.