Our Journey
Moving the Ozarks Forward
For more than five decades, Ozark Regional Transit Authority has been a steady force connecting people, places, and opportunities across Northwest Arkansas. What began in the 1970s as a small, community-driven effort to serve elderly and rural residents has grown into a regional public transit system that supports daily life, economic mobility, and regional growth. Throughout its history, ORT has evolved alongside the communities it serves- expanding routes, embracing new service models, and responding to challenges with resilience and innovation. From the introduction of fixed routes to the launch of on-demand transit and fare-free service, each milestone reflects a continued commitment to accessibility, equity, and connection.
This timeline highlights the key moments that shaped ORT into what it is today: a trusted public service dedicated to moving Northwest Arkansas forward- together.
Ozark Regional Transit Authority
Historical Timeline &
Where We Are Today
Where We Are Today
Today, ORT stands as a dynamic and growing public transportation provider in Northwest Arkansas, serving the communities of Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville with a mix of fixed-route and on-demand services tailored to the region’s evolving needs. ORT continues to offer zero-fare fixed routes that run throughout the workweek, while its On-Demand Transit (ODT) service- bookable via the ORT On-Demand app- provides flexible, app-based rides within designated zones Monday through Saturday for a modest fare.
ORT also maintains complementary ADA paratransit ensuring broad accessibility for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and residents beyond core fixed-route coverage areas. Together, these enhancements reflect ORT’s commitment to providing safer, more reliable, and more connected transit options in a rapidly growing region- balancing traditional fixed routes with innovative, data-driven service models that respond to changing travel patterns and rider expectations.