Improving On-Demand Transit For Our Community

As we move into the second half of the decade, ORT continues refining Northwest Arkansas’ regional public transit system to better serve our riders and partner communities. Following another productive budget season, ORT worked closely with municipalities to review what’s working well and where thoughtful improvements could make an even bigger impact.

One area of focus was our On-Demand Transit (ODT) service, the app-based option introduced in 2018. While ODT remains a popular and flexible choice, recent updates are designed to help riders better understand all the transit options available to them while improving overall system efficiency.

First, riders booking an ODT trip will now receive a prompt if a nearby fixed route may be a faster or more convenient option, or if ODT vehicles are currently at capacity. Fixed routes remain the backbone of ORT’s system and continue to operate as a zero-fare service. This change helps riders make informed choices while freeing up ODT capacity for those who need it most.

Second, ORT has updated its ODT fare policy to make trips more affordable for groups and families. The $1.25 fare is no longer limited to a single rider. One booking can now include up to five passengers traveling together- picked up and dropped off at the same time and location for the same $1.25 fare. That means a family heading to a movie, appointment, or event can ride together without paying per person.

These improvements are part of ORT’s ongoing commitment to accessibility, efficiency, and rider choice. We hope they encourage even more people to explore the flexibility and benefits of public transit across Northwest Arkansas.