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Johnson County details free World Cup transit services, promotion hub and 'Johnson County Link'
Summary
Chair Mike Kelly outlined World Cup preparations: a free 'drop and ride' connection to MCI airport, a multi‑city 'Johnson County Link' circulator, and johnsoncountyunited.com as a local information hub, saying the county secured buses early to reduce costs and improve connectivity for visitors.
Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chair Mike Kelly described transit and promotional steps the county has taken ahead of World Cup events in the region, calling the tournament an ‘‘opportunity to transform our region.’’
Kelly said the county is about "63 days" from the first match and that organizers expect thousands of visitors and a global spotlight. In response to concerns about regional transportation, Kelly said Johnson County was the first organization in the U.S. to secure buses for World Cup service and used that procurement to reduce costs.
He announced two services: the Johnson County Link, a partnership with seven cities to provide circulator routes that overlay existing transit service and connect visitors to local destinations; and a Johnson County "drop and ride" service that provides a direct free connection between Johnson County pickup points (including Overland Park Convention Center and Lenexa City Center) and the MCI airport departures and arrivals terminals on roughly 30‑minute headways. "And this service is free," Kelly said.
Kelly directed listeners to johnsoncountyunited.com for ticketing, watch‑party and transit information and highlighted local promotion campaigns in participating cities. He framed the services as both a way to welcome visitors during the tournament and an investment that could support longer‑term transit awareness.
What was not specified: Kelly did not provide farebox, staffing or full operating‑cost estimates for the temporary World Cup services, nor is there a transcript record of formal agreements or interlocal cost‑sharing that would implement continued service after the tournament.
