The Metro Transit Authority is rolling out several key initiatives this fall, starting with the return of its “Bus to Ballot” program on Nov. 5, offering free rides across all buses, ORBT and MOBY services to help ensure voting access for all residents. The transit authority is also set to mark a milestone on Nov. 18, celebrating 2 million rides on ORBT with special surprises for passengers.
MTA reported record-low service interruptions, maintaining a rate of just 1% in September, with similar reliability trends into October. The transit team also partnered with Central High School for “Eagles Take Flight Day,” successfully coordinating transportation for 1,000 students exploring careers around Omaha. MTA took part in the College of St. Mary resource fair, highlighting fare-free pass programs available to student riders.
Service figures reflect an upward trend in ridership across the board. Year-to-date ORBT numbers are up 13% from 2023, with K–12 ridership seeing a significant 25% rise. MTA’s communications team also announced its collaboration with Vision Zero to open a new pedestrian refuge along MTA’s Route 24, aimed at enhancing safety near busy bus stops.
Meeting documented by James De Mott
Read full meeting notes here
Omaha Documenters is a program that empowers citizens to actively participate in local governance by documenting public meetings. This initiative enhances transparency and accountability by making critical information accessible to the community, fostering informed public discourse, and promoting civic engagement. Through its network of dedicated Documenters, the program bridges the gap between government entities and the public, ensuring that decisions affecting the community are transparent and inclusive. For more information and to get involved, visit documenters.org.
Leah Wambui Keinama boasts a robust professional journey, commencing as a systems engineer and integrator within the software industry. In this capacity, she excelled in the conception, design, construction, and deployment of software systems, adeptly managing projects from inception to completion. Transitioning into the nonprofit realm, Leah directed her expertise towards enhancing food systems, with a particular emphasis on soil health, regenerative agriculture, and bolstering food accessibility while fostering resilient communities. Her repertoire includes comprehensive program design skills coupled with a profound commitment to community engagement. Leah's fervor for cultivating networks and forging meaningful connections underscores her dedication to advancing organizational goals.
