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December 15, 2025 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ATA Bus Debuts New K18 Connect Route Flint Hills ATA Bus is excited to announce the debut of the new K18 Connect route, launching January 5, 2026. This redesigned regional route will make traveling between Manhattan, Ogden, and Junction City easier than ever bringing “three communities, one route” to life. The K18 Connect offers a direct, reliable, and affordable way to move throughout the Flint Hills region. Buses will run Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with service operating continuously throughout the day. Riders can board at either Manhattan Walmart or Junction City Walmart, along with multiple stops including the Manhattan Corporate Technology Park, Flint Hills Breadbasket, and Ogden Community Center. A full one-way trip takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. To celebrate the launch and help riders adjust to the new system, all rides on the K18 Connect and all other services will be free during the month of January 2026. After that, the K18 Connect route will only be $1.00 to ride. “This route is about connecting the Flint Hills one ride at a time,” said ATA Bus leadership. “By expanding service across the day and offering simple connections to local routes, we’re making regional travel easier, more affordable, and more accessible for everyone.” The K18 Connect is fully ADA accessible, offers convenient transfer points in both Manhattan and Junction City, and allows riders to bring personal items such as groceries and work supplies. Ogden residents will also benefit from a new deviated stop option designed specifically to improve accessibility within the community. ATA Bus encourages anyone with questions or riders wanting personal guidance on navigating the new route to reach out for assistance. Staff are ready to help make the transition smooth and positive. With the launch of the K18 Connect, ATA Bus is proud to continue “closing the gap, building the region” and supporting seamless mobility across the Flint Hills. Media Contact: Daphne McNelly Director of Marketing and Communications dmcnelly@fhata.org 785-537-6345x1 785-430-6840