Improving Accessibility and Reducing Wait Times: ORT Expands On-Demand Service in Northwest Arkansas
Public transportation plays a significant role in connecting communities and improving accessibility. Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) is expanding its On-Demand Transit (ODT) service in Fayetteville and Rogers with an additional van, aiming to reduce wait times for riders during peak demand hours. The success of the ODT service combined with the "zero-fare" offering has been highly acclaimed in Fayetteville and Rogers, leading to the expansion. In this blog post, we will dive into the new developments in ORT's services and their goals to improve accessibility to public transit in Northwest Arkansas.
Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) is expanding its On-Demand Transit (ODT) service in Fayetteville and Rogers with an additional van starting on February 13, 2023. The new van will run for about 7 hours every weekday during peak demand times. The ODT service has been successful in Fayetteville and Rogers, and the addition of another van is expected to reduce wait times for riders. Rogers is transitioning to a hybrid system, offering both fixed routes during peak times and ODT during non-peak hours. Fayetteville will see an expansion of its ODT service area and longer operating hours, while Springdale will undergo a system overhaul with the elimination of one route and revisions to others, and the implementation of an ODT service in the northeast quadrant of the city. ORT aims to have full implementation of all improvements and expansions by March 27, 2023, with a goal of a 20-minute frequency of service at each stop. ORT asks for patience and understanding as they work to revamp the public transit system in Northwest Arkansas.
As ORT continues to evolve and improve its public transit services, it's crucial to support their efforts by using their services and spreading the word. The expansion of the ODT service in Fayetteville and Rogers and the new hybrid system in Rogers are exciting developments that aim to improve accessibility for everyone. Additionally, the expansion of services in Springdale shows ORT's commitment to serving the entire Northwest Arkansas community. We encourage everyone to use and support ORT's public transit services and look forward to the implementation of all improvements and expansions by March 27, 2023.
Ride with us today!
Ozark Regional Transit provides safe, reliable, and affordable public transportation to both the rural and urban residents of the four-county area within our jurisdiction. Take a look at our current, available bus routes here. If you’d like to learn more about ORT, contact us by calling 479-756-5901 or visiting our website today. Have you heard about ORT’s On-Demand Transit? Download the app today on the apple or google play stores!