Metro Transit Gets New Name, To Launch Major Improvements

Oklahoma City's Metro Transit system will launch major improvements and transition to a new name on Monday, April 28.

According to officials, Metro Transit will be known as Embark. The new identity will represent all services, including bus transit, parking and ferry. Later this spring, the transit division, currently known as Metro Transit, will launch system-wide service enhancements including new schedules and route alignments.

"The changes we are making to the public transportation system in Oklahoma City are really transformational, and the new identity illustrates the journey we as a community are undertaking together," said Jason Ferbrache, director of public transportation and parking.

The system-wide route changes focus on increasing the frequency of the bus routes, reducing passenger wait and travel time, and realigning routes for optimal connectivity and to better match demand, according to officials.

Additional improvements currently underway include new bus stop signage and technology updates that will provide real-time information on the location of buses, a new website and a user-friendly trip planner.

Officials say even more enhancements will roll out this summer including Wi-Fi on board all buses, enhanced route information at bus stops, and the start of installing more than 31 new ADA accessible bus shelters.

"Faster service is the first step to building a better system," said Ferbrache. "These system changes lay the groundwork for building a better, stronger system that can one day support major improvements such as extended hours and Sunday service."

On most routes, buses will arrive every 30 minutes. There will now only be six local bus routes with wait times in excess of 30 minutes. The changes also establish a mini "transit hub" in west Oklahoma City for improved connectivity and create a new south crosstown route to serve a growing South 29th Street corridor.

New bus schedules will be available at the downtown Transit Center starting Tuesday, April 15. The new website, embarkok.com, will launch later this week where the public may access routes, schedules, and maps.

Customer Care staff are available for personal assistance from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. by calling (405) 235-RIDE (7433).