Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) will extend its zero-fare program for Northwest Arkansas riders through 2022. A zero-fare policy has been known to bolster ridership where implemented and an increase in ridership was certainly seen with the initial implementation in early 2020. The continuation of this policy is expected to continue this trend and to help businesses that have suffered through the pandemic.
ORT will also increase public outreach in the form of a robust social media campaign to familiarize the public with all aspects of the system (especially tools to be used to access and plan routes in the system), conduct an extensive bus stop accessibility study and expand service overall.
An extensive bus stop inventory and analysis of all current bus stops will be undertaken to coordinate with local, municipal transportation staff. The outcome goal is to provide recommendations that would enhance riders’ experience, comfort and accessibility going forward.
The public transit system in Bentonville will be changed from the existing one, fixed-route system to a two-bus, On-Demand Transit (ODT) system mirroring Rogers’ transit system. Additionally, hours will be extended in the city to 80 cumulative hours a week for the two buses.
These efforts are supported by the Walton Family Foundation in the form of a $985,608 grant. This support will allow ORT to continue offering its safe, contactless transit experience while more effectively positioning itself for growth in the region.
The ultimate goal for these initiatives in 2022 is to make public transit more available and more accessible, eliminate shortcomings, and to make mobility more efficient and effective.
This joint effort will help eliminate cost barriers to transportation for underrepresented communities, incentivize new riders and support local municipalities.
