Lawrence Transit in Kansas is engaging with bus riders to discuss reinstating fares for its on-demand service after grant funding supporting the service expires in 2026. According to the agency, a $3 fare will sustain the service at its current levels.

Following the agency's 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.

Lawrence Transit On Demand started in September 2023, with funds from a KDOT Access, Innovation, and Collaboration grant. The agency has provided 89,264 rides through the service since its launch, increasing efficiency and convenience with an app-based service, with 94% of riders booking through the app.

According to an agency release, rider feedback has shown consistent issues with trip availability. On average, 8% of scheduled trips are no-shows, resulting in approximately 386 trips per month. These no-shows represent trips that could have served other riders, so returning fares to this service may provide a more consistent rider experience and improve trip availability.

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

A survey is available to gather information about how riders are using this service and to determine how this proposed fare might affect them.