Taking Care of our Air

Transportation

How does transportation affect our air quality?

Transportation is major contributor to air pollution in the Kansas City region, with emissions from cars, trucks and buses releasing harmful pollutants. These pollutants affect air quality, contribute to increases in global temperatures and extreme weather, and increase health risks.

By embracing cleaner and more efficient transportation solutions, we can reduce emissions, improve public health and support vibrant cities.

Change driving habits

Instead of relying on single-occupant rides, consider taking another transportation method to reduce emissions.

Reduce emissions

When you drive, there are simple changes you can make to reduce your emissions.

Alternative transportation solutions

A more efficient commute can reduce emissions and save you money.

Carpool

When you share a ride with just one other person, you cut your air pollution emissions in half — and it saves you money on gas and parking! MARC’s WAY TO GO program offers free online carpool matching and helpful tips to get started with carpooling.

Vanpool

WAY TO GO also offers vanpool services through Enterprise. To join or start a vanpool, visit WAY TO GO KC and the interest form. Vanpool members pay a low monthly fare, based on the cost of operating the van.

Ride the bus

If you live farther than walking distance from work, consider getting a bus pass. For information on bus routes, visit RideKC.

For real-time updates, make sure to download the transit app on the App Store or Google Play.

Bike or walk

The Kansas City region has a great system of bicycle and pedestrian routes and trails that are perfect for shorter trips. Not only are these trips emissions-free, but they also improve fitness.

The Regional Trails and Bikeway Map is available in print and online. For a free bike map, call 816-842-RIDE.

Go multi-modal

Sometimes your route is just too far to bike or there are too many bus transfers to make your route timely. You can take advantage of the Park-and-Ride bus stops. Or, you can use the convenient bike racks on all RideKC buses to bike and bus.

Use the WAY TO GO trip planner to find the best route for your commute. You can explore many commute options such as carpooling, vanpooling, transit, biking, and walking.

A man placing a bike on the front bike rack of a RideKC bus.

Go electric

Hybrid vehicles offer 20-35% better fuel efficiency than traditional gasoline vehicles, leading to significant fuel savings, especially in city driving.

You can further reduce tailpipe emissions by going all-electric. When it comes to charging an EV, the Kansas City region has a robust network of charging stations. If you’re considering an electric vehicle, check with your local electric utility for rebates on home chargers or other offers.

Lean more about electric vehicles, incentives and how and where to charge at Plug-In KC.

Bike sharing

If you’re looking for a convenient and fun way to get around Kansas City, Missouri, consider bike sharing through Bike Share KC.

Getting started is easy. Just download the app, pick up a bike, and secure the bike when you reach your final destination.

A woman riding a bike share bike on Trolley Track Trail

The MARC Air Quality program has issued an Ozone Action Alert for Wed. Sept. 2. Details >