The new IRIS transit system vehicle ready to serve the residents of Independence, MO.
Independence, Missouri, introduces the on-demand transit system IRIS, following the suspension of the traditional IndeBus service. This shift aims to provide more flexible local transportation options for residents. With a flat rate and an estimated revenue generation, concerns about operational challenges and ride availability remain as the city transitions to this new service model. Officials emphasize a commitment to adapt based on rider feedback as Independence enters this new chapter in its transportation landscape.
Residents of Independence, Missouri, are in for a change as the city officially launches the new on-demand transit system, IRIS, this Thursday. This comes after the IndeBus transit system ceased operations just two days prior due to financial constraints that impacted its sustainability.
The move to launch IRIS signals a significant shift in how locals will navigate their city. City officials made the tough decision to suspend the inter-city transit service after the funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) expired. While the city will keep the para-transit system in place—albeit with an added fee—and maintain Route 24 that connects Independence to Kansas City, the new IRIS system will be essential for those looking for local transportation options.
With the IndeBus system no longer operational, people who relied on the bus service now need to familiarize themselves with the way IRIS works. David Fristoe, a regular rider, emphasized how crucial a bus system is for those without cars, underscoring the need for effective alternatives.
IRIS will charge a flat rate of $5 per ride, and it’s estimated that this pricing structure could generate about $250,000 in annual revenue. However, the total projected operational cost for IRIS stands at a staggering $804,192 annually, leaving a significant funding gap of $554,192 that the city plans to cover. Independence City Council members pointed to rising operational costs as the primary reason for moving away from the traditional bus system to this more modern approach.
While the enthusiasm surrounding IRIS is palpable, there are some concerns among potential riders. Issues such as delays in securing rides and a possible shortage of drivers have been pointed out by community members. This apprehension is not unfounded, especially since IRIS has been operational in Kansas City since 2023 and received mixed feedback. Many users from Kansas City have sung praises for IRIS’s quick service and affordability. Clayton Young noted the reliability when booking rides in advance, but not everyone shares his experience. Barbara Bryant expressed doubts about whether IRIS will handle the influx of riders who previously relied on the bus system, raising the issue of ride delays that could affect many users.
Independence officials have already indicated that the first month of IRIS will be a “work in progress”. Modifications will be made based on rider feedback, showing that the city is committed to making improvements as necessary.
For those eagerly awaiting this new transportation option, the booking process for IRIS is user-friendly. Residents can start booking rides online, through a mobile app, or by calling 816-205-8221. Eager riders can expect to receive their first rides beginning January 2, giving them new avenues to explore Independence and its surroundings.
Interestingly, Independence is not the only city reevaluating its transit services. The City of Blue Springs has announced it will not renew its bus service contract starting October 6, 2024. Rising costs have prompted this change, as the expenses for the bus service surged from $73,348 in 2022-2023 to $122,899 for the upcoming year. This transition underscores a concerning trend where other cities, including Grandview, Raytown, and Gladstone, are also discontinuing public transit services due to similar financial challenges. In Gladstone, the price hike from $87,000 to a whopping $340,000 forced officials to pull the plug on their services.
With IRIS rolling out and traditional bus services falling by the wayside, the people of Independence, MO, are entering a new chapter in local transportation. It will be essential for the city to carefully address the growing pains of this transition while ensuring that all residents have access to reliable and effective transportation. As riders navigate this shift, community collaboration will be vital in shaping the future of transit in Independence.
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