Public transit in the Kansas City area could receive a much-needed financial boost as Jackson County leaders consider asking voters to approve a dedicated countywide sales tax to support transit service. If approved by the County Legislature for the November ballot, the proposed half percent sales tax could generate an estimated $40 million annually, providing a stable funding source for bus service and other transportation investments.
To help shape the proposal, Jackson County legislators are hosting a series of public listening sessions to gather input from residents on the future of transit. Community members are encouraged to share their ideas for improving mobility throughout the county, with discussions extending beyond traditional bus service to include options such as streetcar service, commuter rail, bicycle infrastructure and other innovative transportation solutions. County leaders say they hope the conversations will help create a transit system that better connects residents to jobs, education, healthcare and other essential destinations.
Listening Session Calendar:
- July 7 at 6 p.m., 3609 SW State Route 7, Blue Springs
- July 14 at 6 p.m., 101 SW 12th Street, Oak Grove
- July 28 at 6 p.m., 6131 Raytown Road, Raytown
The proposal comes at a critical time for public transportation in the region. Years of inconsistent local funding have led to service reductions, and many suburban communities have eliminated or reduced their participation in the regional transit network. Today, only a handful of fixed-route bus services remain outside Kansas City, Missouri, leaving many area residents with limited transportation options.
Supporters also point to growing public backing for transit investment. Previous polling, released by the Kansas City Regional Transit Alliance, found that a majority of Jackson County voters support establishing a dedicated funding source for public transportation, seeming to indicate that voters may be ready to invest in expanded transit service. The legislature must pass its ordinance by the end of August to have the measure placed on the November 2026 ballot.
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