About TMTA
The Topeka Metropolitan Transit Authority provides bus service and works with other organizations to meet mass transit needs. Please use the links at the right to serve your needs.
→ Topeka Transit Facts
- More than 1.9 million passenger trips in 2008 (a record!)
- 6 lines with 2 local routes per line
- 3 “special” local routes
- Just under 100 employees
- Service area: Metropolitan City, plus three miles
- Service area population: 126,000 (December 2008)
→ About the Fleet
- 30 fixed route buses
- 6 streetcar trolleys
- 15 LIFT paratransit vehicles
- Average bus age: 10 years
The Topeka Metropolitan Transit Authority was created in 1973 by a vote of the city residents. Over the past three decades, Topeka Transit has grown from a small, privately owned bus service into a leader in local transportation. From a thriving employer outreach and bike to work program, Topeka Transit has been at the forefront of helping the residents of our city to find options to get to work and to think transit first.
Since those humble beginnings, Topeka Transit has grown into one of the most efficiently run and used transit systems in the state. Of all the capitol cities in the nation, today Topeka Transit ranks the 9th most efficient.
→ Topeka Transit Board of Directors: The Board is composed of seven council-approved, mayoral-appointed, citizens. The board establishes policy and legislative direction for the agency. Board members are appointed for four-year terms.
Board Members:
- Patrick Hubbell, Chairman
- Jim Daniel, Vice Chair
- Neta Jeffus, Board Member
- Andy Sanchez, Board Member
- Jack Alexander, Board Member
- Matt Gassen, Board Member
- Steve Kramer, Board Member
→ ACATS
Serving the city of Topeka for more than 25 years, the Advisory Committee on Accessible Transportation Services is a citizen’s advocacy organization which provides a forum to encourage public participation and dialogue between Topeka Transit and special needs riders using all transit services.
→ Accessibility
Topeka Transit buses have kneeling features so that first step on board can be even easier. Every fixed route bus is equipped with a wheelchair lift or ramp, which can be used by any passenger. Bus Operators are trained to assist people with disabilities in boarding and securing their wheelchairs on the bus. By federal law, Bus Operators announce major transfer points, intersections and destination points along each route. They also identify their bus route when stopping at zones that serve more than one route. Service materials are available in accessible formats, such as large print or Braille, upon request.
→ Lift Paratransit Service
Topeka Transit’s Lift Service is a paratransit service that provides transportation for people whose disability or condition prevents them from using Topeka Transit fixed route buses. Lift Service can take a qualified customer to locations within 3/4 of a mile of a Topeka Transit bus route, during the hours that the bus route runs in that area. Passengers must complete an eligibility form and be approved prior to using the service. The eligibility process can take up to 21 days. For more information on the Lift, call 783-7000.
→ Wheelchairs Requirements
Topeka Transit strives to serve anyone in a wheelchair or scooter who can safely board and ride our buses. By Federal Law we are only required by law to transport people whose mobility aids meet these standards:
- Have three or four wheels.
- Are not more than 30 inches wide and 48 inches long, including footrests and backpacks.
- Do not weigh more than 600 pounds when occupied.
For your safety, Bus Operators use front and rear tie-downs to secure wheelchairs. You may be asked to leave the bus if you refuse to have your wheelchair secured. Lap and shoulder belts are also made available at each wheelchair securement location for added passenger safety.
→ Service Animals
Service or guide animals necessary for travel by passengers with disabilities are allowed on all Topeka Transit buses and in all facilities. All animals must be on a leash or in a harness.
→ Transit Instruction Program
Topeka Transit offers a free Transit Instruction Program for any person who may feel unsure about riding the bus. The instruction is customized to meet each person’s needs. Group presentations are held once a month at Quincy Station. Please see the Website for more information on presentation dates.
→ Website Accessibility
Topeka Transit’s new and updated website adheres to most guidelines put forth by section508.gov which requires that Federal agencies’ electronic and information technology be accessible to people with disabilities. For more information, please call 785/233-2011.
→ Non-Discrimination Policies
Pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Environmental Justice regulations and in accordance with applicable state and local laws: Topeka Transit grants all citizens equal access to its transportation services. If you believe that you have received discriminatory treatment by Topeka Transit on the basis of your race, color, national origin, economic status, disability or limited English proficiency, you have the right to file a formal complaint. The complaint with details must be filed no later than 180 calendar days after the alleged discriminatory incident. Contact Topeka Transit at (785) 233-2011.

