Transportation Resources
As we get older or face challenges like limited mobility or not having a car, having safe and reliable transportation becomes even more important. It helps us stay independent, connected to others and able to take care of everyday needs.
Whether you drive yourself, use public transit or rely on senior transportation services, having a plan ensures you can still go to the doctor, pick up groceries or medicine, visit family and friends or enjoy social activities.
Below is a list of free to low-cost transportation options available in Johnson County. Please note: Costs and services may change, so it's always a good idea to call each provider for the most up-to-date information.
Plan Ahead for Your Transportation Needs
It can be helpful to make a simple transportation plan for times when you cannot drive. You can write down:
- The transportation option (bus, ride service, a friend, etc.)
- Phone number or contact information
- The cost
- Where and when you need to go
Your transportation options may include:
- Family, friends or neighbors
- A trusted community member
- One of the services listed below
Think about the places you need or want to go, such as:
- Doctor’s office
- Grocery store or pharmacy
- Church or social events
- Hair salon or barber
- Workplace or volunteer sites
You might even make plans with friends who do not drive, or look into hiring someone to help with rides. The key is to plan ahead so you can keep doing the things that matter to you.
Public Transportation
Public transportation offers a safe, affordable, and accessible means for older adults to maintain independence and stay connected to their community.
Johnson County Transit – a part of RideKC Regional Services
Providing accessible and convenient public transportation options for Johnson County residents.
913-362-3500 | johnsoncountytransit@jocogov.org
Johnson County Transit Services:
- Fixed Route Bus – Free local and commuter bus service connecting key destinations.
- Micro Transit – On-demand, shared rides within Johnson County for a low fare.
- Paratransit – Curb-to-curb service for eligible seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Additional RideKC Regional Transit Services
RideKC unites transit services across the metro area, making it easy to travel beyond Johnson County. For help planning your trip across the region, contact RideKC Customer Service.
Kansas City, KS & Wyandotte County (RideKC – Unified Government Transit)
- Fixed-route bus service
- Paratransit for eligible riders
Kansas City, MO & Metro Area (RideKC – KCATA)
- Fixed-route bus service
- RideKC Freedom (paratransit)
- RideKC Freedom On-Demand (app-based, flexible transit)
- IRIS (on-demand micro transit)
Independence, MO (RideKC – Independence Transit)
- Fixed-route bus service
- RideKC Freedom (paratransit)
Kansas City Streetcar
- Free streetcar service in downtown Kansas City
Medical Transportation
Medical transportation services provide residents with transportation to medical appointments.
American Cancer Society
The Road to Recovery program provides free rides to cancer-related medical appointments. Eligibility requirements may apply. Availability and service may not be available in all cities.
Medicaid Transportation
Transportation may be available for medical purposes for Medicaid recipients. Check with your Managed Care Organization or Kansas Medicaid (KanCare) provider.
1-833-270-2254 | Transportation | Healthy Blue Kansas
Healthy Blue partners with Access2Care for non-emergent transportation for eligible Healthy Blue members.
Sunflower Health Plan | 1-877-644-4623
Transportation | Sunflower Health Plan | 1-877-917-8162
Sunflower Health Plan partners with SafeRide Health for non-emergent transportation for eligible Sunflower Health Plan members.
United Healthcare members may be eligible to receive transportation for medical appointments through United Healthcare Community Plan of Kansas.
City Transportation Programs
City transportation programs offer residents within a city access to convenient and affordable transportation services for local travel, thereby ensuring mobility within the community.
Shawnee CityRide
Shawnee CityRide is available to Shawnee residents, who are 65 years of age or older or individuals with disabilities. Shawnee CityRide provides rides to and from private residences, to businesses, to physician offices, and any other location inside the Shawnee City limits. Available seven days a week.
Volunteer Transportation Programs
Volunteer transportation programs provide rides through dedicated volunteer drivers. While not a primary means of transportation for independent living, they offer a helpful option for older adults. Rides are not guaranteed, and most programs require an application and advance scheduling, often several days ahead.
Catch-a-Ride
913-715-8900 | catcharide@jocogov.org
Johnson County Aging and Human Services provides Catch-a-Ride, a volunteer transportation program designed for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and adults in a major life transition who are unable to drive. Catch-a-Ride provides rides to essential destinations such as medical appointments, food pantries and social service agencies. An application process is required to utilize services. Rides must be scheduled with a minimum of five business days in advance. Available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., excluding county holidays.
JET Express
913-981-8877 | jetexpress@jfskc.org
Jewish Family Services provides JET Express, a volunteer transportation program for individuals 60 and older without readily available transportation. An application process is required to utilize services. The program serves portions of Jackson County, MO, and Johnson County, KS. There is a small fee per ride.