About METRO

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 Metro Facts

  • More than 1.9 million passenger trips in 2008 (a record!)
  • 6 lines with 2local 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
  • 12 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 Metro 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 Metro 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 Metro 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 Metro ranks the 9th most efficient.

 

Accessibility

Topeka Metro 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 Metro’s Lift Service is a paratransit service that provides transportation for people whose disability or condition prevents them from using Topeka Metro fixed route buses. Lift Service can take a qualified customer to locations within 3/4 of a mile of a Topeka Metro 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 Metro 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 Metro buses and in all facilities. All animals must be on a leash or in a harness.

 

Transit Instruction Program

Topeka Metro 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 “Mark Your Calendar” section on our home page for more information on presentation dates.

 

Website Accessibility

Topeka Metro’s new and updated website adheres to most guidelines put forth by section 508.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 Metro grants all citizens equal access to its transportation services. If you believe that you have received discriminatory treatment by Topeka Metro 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 Metro at (785) 233-2011.

To view TMTA’s “Notice to Beneficiaries under Title VI”, please click here:   TITLE VI NOTICE