Free Bus Rides Have FAILED And Kansas City Refuses To Admit It

Let's take a quick look at recent local transit developments since freebie bus rides have taken hold over the course of the pandemic: 

- The ATA honcho was forced out amid a fight with the Mayor over money. 

- A labor crisis has worsened with driver complaints regarding worsening safety on the buses downplayed. 

- Even advocates of "Zero Fare" complain that the service has become so unreliable that it's almost unusable. 

And yet . . . 

Locals don't really want to change much about freebie rides that have sparked so many problems. 

But don't worry . . . 

The Jackson County Exec's son might be able to fix the hot mess. After reelection of course.

In the meantime, here's another happy report that's forced to tacitly acknowledge the downgrade in service . . .

"Ridership recovered more quickly in Kansas City compared to other metros during the Covid-19 pandemic — rebounding to 80% of 2019 numbers by October 2020.

"However, the system also faces ongoing challenges, including an operator shortage and concerns from riders about long wait times and no-show buses."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

As Fare-Free Transit Catches On, Checking In On 5 Cities With Free Public Transit

There's no such thing as a free bus. But these five cities are among those offering free public transportation. How is it working out? Fare-free public transit is having a moment - with coverage from Freakonomics to Wired to Slate to right here at Next City.

And because all of this is depressing . . . We share our favorite #TBT song about free rides from the Edgar Winter Group to power your morning . . .

You decide . . .