What do you think of the proposed $3 fare for Lawrence Transit On Demand?

Lawrence Transit proposes a $3 fare for on-demand service; fixed-route and paratransit to remain free

Grants that helped pay for this service expire next year. A $3 fare will keep the service operating at current levels.

Following our Public Participation Plan, the Connected City Advisory Board will receive a presentation on October 20 and will vote on the proposal on November 17. If approved, fares are expected to go into effect in 2026 and will be collected through the Lawrence Transit On Demand app or web portal.

For more details about the On Demand fare proposal, visit the project page.

Background Information

Lawrence Transit On Demand started in September 2023, with funds from a KDOT Access, Innovation, and Collaboration grant. We’ve provided 89,264 rides since it was launched, increasing efficiency and convenience with an app-based service, with 94% of riders booking through the app.

Before that, Lawrence Transit operated an overnight service called Night Line from 2014 – 2022. This service cost $2 per ride and was scheduled in advance by phone. Night Line provided on average 14,796 rides annually, compared with 29,755 average annual rides provided by Lawrence Transit On Demand.

Rider feedback has shown consistent issues with trip availability. On average, 8% of our scheduled trips are no-shows, which is about 386 trips per month. These no-shows represent trips that could have served other riders. It is projected that returning fares to this service will provide a more consistent rider experience and improve trip availability.

The City of Lawrence budget for 2026 includes funding to continue fare free transit for fixed-route and paratransit services for next year. Fare free service started as a pilot program in 2023 and is now evaluated on an annual basis for renewal.