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Johnson County adopts transit strategic plan prioritizing frequency, rebranding and targeted route changes
Summary
The board unanimously adopted a strategic plan to increase frequency on main corridors, right‑size the fleet, reintroduce fares, suspend two low‑ridership commuter routes and pursue future route improvements; staff said the plan will be implemented within existing budget constraints and may be phased around the World Cup.
Johnson County commissioners voted unanimously to adopt a multi‑year transit strategic plan that aims to boost frequency on key corridors, rebrand county service as JOCO, and adjust services to improve reliability while staying within current budget constraints.
Josh Powers of county transit told the board: "The focus of the strategic plan is to improve our system but remain within our existing budget." He said the plan anticipates suspending two low‑ridership commuter routes effective Jan. 1, 2026, reducing the microtransit service area to within the I‑435 loop, and then introducing increased frequency on fixed routes, a new express connection between the Mission Transit Center and East Village Transit Center in Kansas City, Mo., and complementary ADA paratransit as demand grows. Powers cautioned that planned start dates (an August start and an earlier Jan. 1 suspension) could slip because of World Cup operations and labor considerations.
Heidi Thummel, chair of the Johnson County Transit Council, told the board the JC T C supports adoption and highlighted consensus areas including increased frequency on main corridors, a right‑sized fleet, and future route improvements when funding allows: "Public transit is a vital resource that connects people to jobs, education, health care, and essential services." Commissioners debated implementation timing and phasing; several said a phased approach or a later 2027 start may be preferable.
Commissioner Hanslick moved to adopt the plan, Commissioner Myers seconded, and the clerk recorded a 7‑0 vote in favor. The board asked staff to return with memoranda of understanding for regional pilot programs and with public‑notice plans for any service suspensions.
