Keaton PetersKansas City is rolling out a rideshare program that aims to bridge the gap between traditional bus service and ride-hailing apps.
The city’s new IRIS program provides on-demand, shared-ride transit service across the entire Kansas City metropolitan area, including Gladstone, Riverside, Liberty and Raytown. IRIS will operate with flexible routes along a network of designated stops offering connections to existing RideKC bus lines.
The program represents a growing trend of cities experimenting with flexible transit options to serve areas where traditional fixed-route service may be less efficient or available.
RELATED: Kansas to begin $278 million freeway upgrade with help from federal grant
In an announcement on its website, KCATA said, “this service provides expanded connectivity for residents to fill in gaps where a bus stop or other transportation service may not be as accessible.”
The program utilizes an on-demand dynamic routing model that picks up and drops off riders within one quarter mile of their request.
Operating from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, IRIS allows customers to book rides through a mobile app, website or phone, with fares ranging from $3 for trips within a single zone to $10 for airport service. The program includes several innovative pricing structures:
- $3 per person for trips within a single zone
- Free transfers to other transit options at select transfer stations
- $4 per person for travel between Northland zones
- $5 fares to entertainment districts like downtown
- $10 flat rate to KCI airport from any Northland zone
The service operates as a shared-ride system where passengers may travel with up to four other riders, similar to popular ride-hailing services but with a public transit approach. Unlike traditional door-to-door services, IRIS operates through a network of designated stops, which may include existing RideKC bus stops or specially designated IRIS locations.
To ensure reliability and safety, all IRIS vehicles are operated by professionally trained drivers who must pass background checks and complete appropriate training, including drug and alcohol screening. All vehicles are clearly marked with IRIS and RideKC branding for easy identification.
Payment options are flexible, with customers able to pay through the IRIS app or website at the time of booking using a credit or debit card. For those preferring to pay in person, exact-change cash and credit card payments can be made directly to the driver.
The system’s virtual stops are strategically located within a quarter mile of most areas in the service region, including neighborhoods, stores, restaurants, workplaces and community centers. These stops are selected based on safety considerations and proximity to popular destinations.
IRIS also includes features to accommodate various transportation needs, with vehicles equipped to carry strollers, bicycles and baggage. The service allows children to ride, though those under 12 must be accompanied by an older passenger.
The program is currently accepting ride bookings with trips available to schedule up to seven days in advance.
Photo courtesy JLiu1596
