By now, you’ve likely heard that ThinkTransit is headed to Kansas City in March 2025. And before you ask, “Kansas or Missouri?” (yes), let’s take a moment to spotlight our host agency Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA). Thanks to our friends at Transit Unplugged, we have podcast and Transit Unplugged TV episodes to share so you can immerse yourself in the full KC experience before you arrive.
A Distinct Agency in a One-of-a-Kind City
Kansas City spans both Kansas and Missouri, which might typically complicate transit operations. But Kansas City is anything but typical—and so is its transit system. KCATA was established through an interstate compact in 1965-66 between the two states and Congress, designed to deliver transit services across seven counties and the city itself, bridging both states.
As Frank White, III, CEO of KCATA, explains onTransit Unplugged, KCATA is more than a transit provider—it’s a regional transportation authority with a broad mandate to enhance and manage mobility throughout the region. Central to this mission is a strong focus on transit-oriented development (TOD), aimed at improving quality of life for all residents.
And that commitment to TOD is already yielding positive results across the region.
One of the most notable features of KCATA (and RideKC) is its fare-free service for buses and streetcars. While on-demand microtransit services still charge fares, the fare-free initiative, launched just before the pandemic in early 2020, was designed to ensure that transportation would not be a barrier for anyone needing to get to work, school, or essential services. Today, KCATA stands as one of the largest fare-free transit systems in the United States, successfully connecting people to opportunity and improving regional mobility.
Integrated Connections Across Transit Modes
KCATA is just one part of a broader transit ecosystem in Kansas City. It operates bus, bus rapid transit (BRT), paratransit, and on-demand microtransit services throughout its coverage area. These services are fully integrated with the downtown streetcar—which is also fare-free—and Amtrak rail connections, creating a seamless experience for riders. Through the RideKC, KCATA collaborates with KC Streetcar and other regional providers to deliver a unified and accessible transit system.
This expansive transit network also links to the historic—and recently revitalised—Union Station, providing Amtrak rail service to destinations beyond Kansas City.
As you’ll see (and hear) below, these connections are central to Frank White, III’s vision for economic development and for reconnecting communities that have long been divided by roads and highways. Both the BRT system and streetcar play a vital role in supporting economic growth and advancing transit-oriented development (TOD).
See and Hear It on Transit Unplugged
But seeing and hearing is believing. Be sure to check out Transit Unplugged TV from Kansas City (featuring their world-famous barbecue) and tune into episodes with KCATA CEO Frank White, III. While not our official host, we also recommend the episode featuring KC Streetcar CEO Tom Gerend, which offers valuable insights into the city’s transit evolution.
Watch Transit Unplugged TV
The Transit Unplugged podcast
- Frank White, III at the Transit Unplugged CEO roundtable at APTA (part 1 and part 2)
- Frank White, III on KCATA and TOD
- Tom Gerend on KC Streetcar
- Frank White, III from the ThinkTransit CEO Panel in Tucson
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