RTA releases fall 2024 transit schedule
 On Sept. 22, the RTA implemented its fall 2024 transit schedule. RTA turned the 66-Hayne Loop to its previous route after completing repairs to the Seabrook Bridge; the route resumed serving the University of New Orleans and Southern University-New Orleans. Jefferson Parish Transit assumes operations of the 201-Kenner Loop bus route, which RTA will no longer service. There are slight schedule adjustments to seven bus routes, route adjustments to two bus routes, and detours in effect on three routes due to ongoing roadwork. Several schedule adjustments will lead to minor improvements in service frequency.
RTA rolls out new buses
 RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins welcomed elected officials and community leaders to celebrate the launch of 26 new hybrid and diesel buses deployed over the summer and fall. The event, featuring a ribbon cutting and a mini tour on a hybrid bus, took place just days after implementing RTA’s fall 2024 transit schedule. The first set of 21 buses was funded by $18.6 million from the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act. Another set of eight diesel buses, five in operation, were funded by $5.39 million from disaster-related CDBG funds
Opportunity Pass Pilot Program officially launches
 We were excited about the launch of the Opportunity Pass zero-fare program that provides young riders ages 16 to 24 to sign up to ride free of charge for a year. Participants can sign up for an Opportunity Pass at any New Orleans Public Library location in person. Questions? Email oppourtunitypass@rideneworleans.org or call the Rideline at (504) 248-3900.
Chalmette Ferry returns to service
 The Chalmette Ferry has returned to service after a drydock inspection mandated by the United States Coast Guard (USCG). The drydock inspection for the Chalmette Ferry vessel included upgrades to the propellers, tail shafts, pumps, piping, hydraulic, mechanical, and steering systems, ensuring they are all in optimal condition, along with sandblasting and a fresh new paint job.
RTA responds to Hurricane Francine
 As part of our response to Hurricane Francine, many RTA employees, including our Operations, Safety & Security, IT, and Maintenance teams, worked tirelessly to bring back our services and keep the public informed at every step. As soon as they were able after the storm, our roadwork crews were out in the late-night/early-morning hours, clearing streetcar lines and debris, trimming trees that had fallen on catenary lines, documenting vehicles obstructing streetcar lines, and ensuring that we could return to at least a limited bus service as soon as possible. Our IT team worked to restore our phone lines to field customer questions, concerns, and requests. Rapid restoration could only have happened with the diligence of these teams. We appreciate them.
New St. Charles streetcar tote bag at our online store
 Ready to ride in style? Grab your RTA St. Charles Streetcar All Over Tote at our Online Store. This chic tote is perfect for carrying your essentials while celebrating New Orleans’ iconic streetcar line. Whether you’re commuting, shopping, or out on the town, this tote is a must-have for any NOLA enthusiast.
RTA participates in rail safety training
 RTA congratulates eight staff members from various departments who recently completed a week-long Transit Rail System Safety course through the Transportation Safety Institute (TSI). The course, delivered locally in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation, is one of four components of the U.S. DOT’s prestigious Transportation Safety & Security Program (TSSP) Certificate in Rail Safety, a recognized achievement in the field of transit safety. These achievements highlight RTA’s dedication to enhancing safety across all modes of transportation and investing in the professional growth of its workforce.
Paratransit ticket books now available
 You no longer need to worry about having exact change when booking your next Paratransit ride. RTA now offers a Paratransit Ticket Book, which includes ten rides for $20 (just $2 per ride). You can purchase your ticket book online at norta.com to have it mailed to you, or pick one up in person at RTA headquarters, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Customer Service Desk, 2817 Canal St. For any questions, call the Rideline at (504) 248-3900.
CAD/AVL Manager Lucien Dolliole speaks at Clever Conference
 We were excited to have CAD/AVL Manager Lucien Dolliole present at Clever Device’s CONNECT2024 Conference this week in Pittsburgh on “Keeping History Alive Through Transportation: New Orleans’ Streetcar Retrofit Project.” Here, Lucien provided an overview of how the RTA has preserved New Orleans’ iconic streetcars by partnering with vendors who recognize the delicate balance between modernization and heritage. This session examined the collaborative efforts that ensured these historic vehicles remain in service, blending innovation with tradition to keep the city’s legacy rolling forward.
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