Omaha’s long-awaited rapid bus transit line is opening November 18. This new addition to the metro will help remedy a longstanding transportation issue in the metro. Until now, local public transportation has been focused more on trying to reach everyone, rather than centered around high-density areas, as highlighted in The Landscape.
For years, this issue has affected the 6% of Omaha metro households who don’t have access to a car, a number that increases to 13% for people of color in our community. Many of these neighbors rely on public transit in order to help them access jobs, grocery stores, healthcare, schools, and many other resources. We anticipate the rapid transit line will make a significant difference to the quality of life for such Omahans. Emily Nguyen, Omaha Community Foundation’s Director of Research and Evaluation says,
“We’re excited about the launch of ORBT. We foresee it making it possible for more local residents to efficiently and reliably use public transportation. We also know that when cities have robust and reliable public transportation residents are connected to more opportunities for both employment and affordable housing. All of this, together, strengthens our community.”
Additionally, a public-private philanthropic partnership made it possible for Omaha By Design to commission artists to paint murals at ORBT bus stops. The mural pictured above, located at the ORBT stop at 15th and Douglas Streets, is by Betni Kalk.
“We’re also thrilled to see the collaboration that has brought public transportation and public art together in the community. Seeing the intersection of Arts & Culture and Transportation being expressed throughout the Omaha metro makes us proud!”
Learn more about transportation in the Omaha-Council Bluffs area at The Landscape.