Kenosha Reporter

Western Kenosha County Transit has announced a comprehensive refresh of its public transportation services for 2024, introducing LINK Western Kenosha Transportation. The initiative aims to revitalize rural transit under the slogan "Your Route to a Better Rural Journey." While this is not a new service, it includes visual updates to vehicles and communications, with the goal of changing community perceptions about public transit.

The decision to update the service followed significant community engagement in fall 2023. Over 400 residents participated in public hearings and a survey across Western Kenosha County. Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman said, “It was very important to us to engage the community in this process. The survey played a crucial role in understanding the needs and preferences of our community members. We truly appreciate the public’s input.”

A key feature of LINK is its door-to-door service, allowing residents to schedule pickups from their homes directly to their destinations. Kerkman stated, “This personalized approach ensures convenience and accessibility for all passengers.” Customers can arrange trips by calling 1-888-203-3498.

Heather Vanoss, Elder & Disability Services Manager, highlighted that “The service is tailored to be both affordable and inclusive, while offering extensive travel options.” Fares are set at $5 per one-way trip for the general public, $3 for older adults and persons with disabilities, and $1 for trips to Nutrition Senior Dining Sites. The service primarily covers areas west of I-94 in Kenosha County.

LINK operates through a partnership between Kenosha Achievement Center and Kenosha County. All vehicles are equipped with lifts and wheelchair tie-downs, and drivers are trained to assist passengers with boarding or disembarking when needed.

The refreshed service aims to provide a relaxing commute experience during peak hours so passengers can read or enjoy scenic views during their journey. LINK is designed for reliability in all weather conditions, ensuring safe travel on rural roads throughout the year.

By using LINK instead of personal vehicles, passengers help reduce carbon emissions in Kenosha County’s rural areas—a move aligned with broader environmental goals.

Vanoss said, “LINK’s economical fares allow travelers to journey farther while spending less and significantly reducing the financial burden typically associated with driving which supports the economic well-being of the community. As LINK launches a refreshed debut in 2024, Western Kenosha County Transit invites the community to embrace this service, promising a more connected, sustainable, and enjoyable travel experience.”

Kenosha County serves a diverse population through its schools as well; during the 2023-24 school year there were over 25,000 students enrolled countywide. White students made up about 55.6% (14,124), Hispanic students accounted for approximately 25.7% (6,528), and Black students represented around 10.4% (2,642). American Indian students comprised just 0.2% of total enrollment. More information about these statistics can be found at https://dpi.wi.gov/.

Indian Trail High School and Academy had the highest enrollment among local schools with 2,001 students during that period; Tremper High School had 1,458 students while Bradford High School enrolled 1,448 students according to data available at https://dpi.wi.gov/.

For more details on student demographics or school enrollments within Kenosha County visit https://dpi.wi.gov/.