RideKC Prepares for Winter Forecast, Encourages Riders to Plan Ahead
(Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 3, 2025) – RideKC transportation throughout the region is planning for winter weather and wants transit customers and the public to be aware of possible service interruptions. Winter weather is expected Saturday–Monday, with impacts possibly lasting into next week. The safety of our operators and customers will drive decisions throughout this winter event. Customers should check frequently for the status of transit service as it may change.
Customers should expect delays on regular fixed-route bus service, and RideKC on-demand services. Depending on the severity of the winter event, adjustments will be made and communicated through RideKC Notify, social media, ridekc.org, call centers and local media.
Riders Should Stay Connected
- This is an ideal time for riders to sign up for RideKC Notify to receive a text, email or voice message about changes affecting specific routes or on-demand services. To sign up for RideKC Notify go here: http://ridekc.alertmedia.com/public
- Web information is available 24/7 at RideKC.org.
- Social media will be updated several times a day throughout the weather event. Follow us on Twitter@ridekctransit or Facebook.com/RideKC or tune into local media.
- The Regional Call Center for RideKC Bus and Streetcar will offer special hours this Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will operate regular hours Monday-Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 816-221-0660. We offer translation assistance for trip information in more than 50 languages.
- RideKC Freedom and on-demand Call Center for paratransit services is 816-842-9070 from 7 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. weekends.
- IRIS Call Center is 816-205-8221 open 24 hours.
On-Demand Services
- Plan ahead. Cancel or reschedule non-essential trips early to avoid disruptions. Because this service extends into neighborhoods and side streets, it may take longer for streets to be cleared.
- Expect delays as we prioritize safety first.
- If snowfall exceeds 3 inches, services may be delayed or suspended.
- Clear paths are required. Make sure travel paths are free of snow and ice; we cannot assist with shoveling.
Warming Centers/Buses
RideKC - KCATA will open the lobby of the East Village Transit Center (12th & Charlotte) on Sunday, for this winter event only, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The transit center lobby is not typically open on weekends. Other adjustments to the lobby hours may be made throughout the winter. There is no restroom available.
Most warming centers throughout Kansas City, Mo., and Kansas City, Ks., are served by existing bus routes so customers will have easy access to safe shelter.
RideKC Johnson County Winter Weather Plan: January 4–8, 2025
To ensure the safety of our operators and riders, we are planning for the following weather-dependent service adjustments:
Paratransit Services
- RideKC Freedom and Swift Services: A delayed start is planned for Monday, January 6, at 9 a.m., subject to road conditions. Riders are encouraged to cancel any non-essential trips as soon as possible.
Micro Transit
- Saturday, January 4: Service is scheduled to operate regular hours (6 a.m.- 8 p.m.), weather permitting and subject to change.
- Sunday, January 5: No service on Sundays.
- Monday, January 6: A delayed start at 9 a.m. is planned, but service will only begin if road conditions allow.
Fixed-Route Services
- Conditions will be monitored Sunday, January 5, and any modifications will be posted through the Transit App, RideKC Notify and X (@jocotransit).
Warming Bus at Mission Transit Center
- A warming bus is scheduled to be stationed at the Mission Transit Center on Monday, January 6, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., dependent on staffing, vehicle availability and road conditions.
Riders can stay updated in several ways:
- Sign up for RideKC Notify for texts, emails, or voice messages about service changes.
- Follow us on social media: Twitter (@JoCoTransit) and Facebook.
- Check for updates at www.jocogov.org/transit and RideKC.org (regional updates).
- Download the Transit App for real-time updates https://bit.ly/4gW5u9Q
Contact:
Cindy Baker, Senior Director Marketing & Communications
816.510.2874 | .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)