Johnson County signs MOU with Lenexa and Overland Park to pilot MCI airport transit for World Cup
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Summary
Johnson County, Lenexa and Overland Park will partner on a pilot transit service to Kansas City International Airport during the 2026 World Cup, using a $2 million MARC grant with a $600,000 local match; the board approved the memorandum of understanding.
The Johnson County Board approved a memorandum of understanding Dec. 4 to partner with Lenexa and Overland Park to provide a pilot transit service between Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and two county locations during the 2026 World Cup.
Josh Powers of Johnson County Transit said the county previously accepted a $2 million grant from the Mid America Regional Council to operate an airport pilot service and that the grant includes a required $600,000 local match. Under the MOU, Johnson County and the two cities will each contribute $200,000 toward the match.
Powers said the project will prioritize two stop areas identified by a MARC study — Lenexa City Center and downtown Overland Park — with the pilot intended to serve both airport routes and a potential local circulator. Staff described a target frequency of about 20 minutes during peak service and said the county will beta test service levels in months before the World Cup to refine routes and frequency.
Commissioners asked about equity across other cities; Powers said the selection followed a MARC study and that additional transportation opportunities are planned with leased buses for broader county coverage. The item is positioned as a pilot meant to assess long‑term viability after the event.
Commissioner Hanzlick moved approval of the MOU; Commissioner Allen Brand seconded. The board approved the agreement.