The KCATA is a bi-state agency formed by an interstate compact between Kansas and Missouri in 1965–6.

[4] Operations began in 1969, when the KCATA took over bus routes previously run by the Kansas City Public Service Company.

The Johnson County, KS Commissioners pulled out of KCATA management agreement effective August 1, 2022 but retained the partnership with the regional RideKC transit branding and planning.

Bus rapid transit premiered with the Metro Area Express in July 2005.

It is about 12-mile (19 km) linking the River Market, Downtown, Crown Center and the Plaza Area.