RideKC warns commuters of possible route disruptions due to winter storm

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Riders in Kansas City have been warned to be prepared as services to routes will more than likely be disrupted as a winter storm rolls through the metro.

RideKC announced on Friday, Jan. 3, that it continues to plan for winter weather and wants commuters to be aware of possible service interruptions. With winter weather expected through the weekend, impacts could last into the next week.

“The safety of our operators and customers will drive decisions throughout this winter storm,” a RideKC spokesperson said.

Riders have been urged to frequently check the status of the route they desire as it could quickly change. The organization noted that delays should be expected on regular fixed-route bus service and RideKC on-demand services.

STAY CONNECTED:

Depending on the severity of the storm, RideKC leaders said adjustments would be made and communicated through RideKC Notify, social media, call centers, local media and HERE.

To stay connected, RideKC indicated that riders should:

• Sign up for RideKC Notify to receive text, email or voice messages about changes. Riders can do that HERE.
• Check web information which is available 24/7 HERE.
• Follow RideKC on social media or tune into local media.

Leaders said the Regional Call Center for the bus and streetcar services will offer special hours on Sunday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Staff will be in for regular hours between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Call Center can be reached at 816-221-0660. Riders can also call the following services:

• RideKC Freedom - an on-demand Call Center for paratransit services. Staff will be available between 7 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on weekends. The number to reach RideKC Freedom is 816-842-9070.
• IRIS Call Center - Open 24 hours at 816-205-8221.

ON-DEMAND SERVICES:

Riders have been urged to plan ahead and cancel or reschedule non-essential trips to avoid disruptions. Because on-demand services extend into neighborhoods and side streets, it could take longer for streets to be cleared. Those who wish to use on-demand services have been advised to:

• Expect delays as safety is prioritized.
• If snowfall exceeds 3 inches, services could be delayed or suspended.
• Clear paths are required. Make sure travel paths are free of snow and ice. Drivers cannot assist with shoveling.

WARMING CENTERS/BUSES:

RideKC noted that the Kansas City Area Transit Authority will open the lobby of the East Village Transit Center at 12th and Charlotte St. on Sunday as a warming center. The move was made specifically for this event and will last between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The transit center lobby is not usually open on the weekends. Other adjustments to the lobby hours could be made throughout the winter. There is no restroom available.

Leaders indicated that most warming centers throughout the metro are served by existing bus routes so riders will have easy access to safe shelter.

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