Kansas Casino Shuttle prepares to expand its service

WICHITA — The new Kansas Casino Shuttle, which has been operating out of Old Town since New Year's, is preparing to expand its popular free service to the east and west sides of Wichita.

"We're getting to bring the full model out," says owner Dennis Sanders, who is offering free rides to the new Kansas Star Casino. "We were just kind of testing the waters."

The colorfully decorated shuttles offer free rides from the Farm & Art Market Plaza every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m. Pick ups are at the top of every hour. The shuttle returns from the casino every half hour.

Sanders pays for the shuttles through print and video advertising inside the shuttles.

Riders are "loving it," Sanders says.

"They just can't believe that it's free."

There will be several east and west pick-up points, though they've not been finalized yet. Sanders says to keep an eye on the shuttle's website or call 316-262-4500. The new locations will be ready next month.

There's no drinking on the shuttles, but Sanders says it's a great service for people who want to drink at the casino and not have to drive.

"It's really cool and fun, like a party bus atmosphere on there," Sanders says. "It's a free party bus."

This story was originally published January 11, 2012 at 5:32 PM with the headline "Kansas Casino Shuttle prepares to expand its service."