Lenexa approves $44,398 for Johnson County 'circulator' transit service during FIFA World Cup

Lenexa approved an agreement to contribute $44,398 to a Johnson County-led circulator transit service intended to move visitors and residents among event sites during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Assistant City Manager Mike Nolan told the council the Johnson County United link would run 35–42 days around the World Cup window, operate in three overlapping circulators with 30–45 minute headways and run roughly 8 a.m. to midnight during service days.

Nolan said the county transit partnership will include grant funding from KDOT, Johnson County Transit and participating cities; the city’s contribution would come from the tourism and convention fund (transient guest tax). On the possibility of fares, Nolan said the county and transit agencies are still finalizing a regional fare system and that, if fares are collected, participating cities would be reimbursed pro rata up to their contribution. "I ask that you approve the $44,000 worth of funding in the agreement with the Board of County Commissioners," Nolan said. Council members asked about likely fare amounts, technology for fare payment and whether the service would pick up teams; Nolan said teams have separate transportation arrangements and that the circulator is intended for fans, visitors and county residents.

The council approved the agreement on a voice vote after a motion by Avery and second by John Michael. The city manager’s office and municipal services staff will coordinate temporary transit-stop improvements and marketing with Johnson County and KC2026 organizers; staff said permanent improvements would be scheduled after the event.