More Routes, More Connections: ORT Expands Transit Services Across Northwest Arkansas

August was a big month for Ozark Regional Transit! With new routes, expanded service areas, and updated schedules across Northwest Arkansas, we're continuing to make public transportation more accessible, convenient, and connected for the communities we serve.

From improved connections in Springdale to expanded service in Fayetteville and Bentonville, these changes are designed to help riders reach more destinations, access essential services, and travel throughout our growing region.

Here's a look at what's new and what these updates mean for our riders.

Springdale: Two Routes, More Destinations, and Better Connections

Springdale riders have more ways to get around! In August, ORT introduced a new Route 63 and expanded Route 62, creating additional connections to healthcare facilities, employment centers, shopping, recreation, and other important community destinations.

These changes also provide a more direct connection across Springdale, allowing riders to reach Route 490 without needing to transfer in Fayetteville.

Route 62: Expanded Access to Essential Destinations

Route 62 has been updated to serve additional destinations throughout Springdale, making it easier for riders to access healthcare, education, recreation, and community resources.

NEW destinations served include:

• Arkansas Children's Hospital

• Arvest Ballpark

• Randall Tyson Recreational Complex

• NWACC Washington County

  
  

Whether you're heading to a medical appointment, attending classes, or enjoying a day out in the community, the expanded Route 62 provides more opportunities to get where you need to go.

Route 63: A New Connection Across Springdale

ORT also introduced Route 63, providing service between Robinson Avenue and Backus Avenue.

This new route connects riders to several important destinations, including:

• Razorback Greenway

• Springdale Water Utilities

• George's Employment Center

• Keystone Crossing Apartments

• Avenue Electric Apartments

• Signature Square

• Harps Grocery

  
  

Route 63 also provides closer access to Shiloh Memorial Park and the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History.

Together, Routes 62 and 63 create more convenient connections across Springdale, helping riders access jobs, housing, groceries, healthcare, and recreational opportunities.

Service reminder: Routes 62 and 63 operate Monday through Friday.

Route 61: Updated Service Hours

Route 61 also received a schedule adjustment in August.

The first pickup now begins at 6:15 AM, and the last drop-off is at 7:15 PM.

Previously, service began at 6:30 AM and ended at 7:30 PM. The route's map and alignment remain unchanged.

Riders are encouraged to review the updated schedule when planning their trips.

Changes to Springdale On-Demand Service

With the expansion of Springdale's fixed-route network, weekday On-Demand service transitioned to fixed-route service.

On-Demand service remains available on Saturdays, providing an additional transportation option for weekend travel.

These changes allow ORT to provide more consistent weekday connections through its expanded fixed-route network while maintaining Saturday On-Demand service.

Fayetteville: Route 20 Expands into Two Routes

Beginning August 3, ORT divided Fayetteville's former Route 20 into two separate routes: Route 20 and the newly introduced Route 21.

This change reorganized service into two routes, providing riders with updated travel options throughout Fayetteville.

Both routes continue to operate Monday through Saturday, with the same service hours; first pickup at 6AM and last dropoff at 8PM.

Riders who previously traveled on Route 20 should review the updated route maps to determine whether Route 20 or Route 21 now serves their destination.

Route 53: Updated Service Frequency

Beginning August 17, Route 53 transitioned from 30-minute service intervals to 60-minute intervals to better align service with rider demand.

Riders using Route 53 should review the updated schedule and allow additional time when planning their trips, particularly when making connections to other routes.

With these updates, ORT continues working to improve transportation connections throughout Northwest Arkansas. Whether you're commuting to work, heading to school, visiting a healthcare provider, or exploring your community, we're here to help you get there.

Before heading out, we encourage all riders to review the latest route maps and schedules and familiarize themselves with any changes that may affect their regular trips.

You can use Passio Go to track your bus in real time or Citymapper to plan your trip and explore available transit connections.