When a storm is coming, every minute counts—and so does every choice we make together. 

With peak hurricane season approaching, I want you to know that we’re ready. Our team is checking evacuation plans, inspecting equipment, working with city partners, and making sure that when it’s time to move, we can get you and your family to safety. If a mandatory evacuation is called, RTA will step into its role in New Orleans’ City-Assisted Evacuation (CAE) Plan to help you get out of harm’s way. That’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly. 

While we plan for the worst, our day-to-day work doesn’t stop. We’re still focused on better service, better infrastructure, and building a transit system that works for you—reliable, efficient, and easy to use. 

Thank you for choosing to ride with us. Whether you’re catching a bus to work, hopping on the streetcar to see friends, or crossing the river on the ferry, your trust in us is why we do what we do. 

Stay safe. Stay ready. And know that when you need us most, we’ll be there. 

We heard you Algiers! RTA is beginning the Algiers Service Improvement Plan. As part of this project, a series of public listening and visioning sessions will be held where you can share your priorities and goals for bus service in your neighborhoods. This multi-phase effort will result in a community-driven service plan for Algiers bus riders, with implementation expected in Summer 2026. 

To start the project, the Algiers Transit Rider Survey is now available. Please take the survey here. Whether you ride every day or once in a while, RTA wants to hear from you! Check out our page below to learn about upcoming listening sessions and other opportunities for involvement. 

Earlier this month, RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins sat down with Malik Mingo on WWLTV’s Great Day Louisiana to talk all things streetcars, from the history to the daily operations that keep this iconic part of New Orleans rolling. 

In the interview, CEO Hankins shared how streetcars are still a symbol of New Orleans culture and pride, while also serving as a vital part of our public transportation system. She also highlighted the hard work of RTA operators and maintenance teams who ensure the service is safe, reliable, and welcoming for all. 

RTA’s Department of Workforce Development recently welcomed 24 STEM NOLA fellows for a two-day immersive learning experience as part of our focus on building a future-ready workforce. 

In its second year, this partnership gives young people a direct look at careers in transit and shows how science, technology, engineering, and math apply in real life. Through hands-on activities and conversations with RTA staff, students saw how transit systems work and discovered new career paths. 

This effort is one way RTA continues to connect with youth-serving organizations and invest in the next generation of problem-solvers, innovators, and community leaders. 

James Nero – Bus Operator (Operations Department) 
James has been employed with RTA for 32 years as a Bus Operator and currently maintains an on-time performance rate of 88.7%. He consistently shows a positive attitude, always greets passengers with a smile, and is known for being patient, respectful, and extremely professional. James takes pride in his role as an operator and values the relationships he’s built with his co-workers over the years. 

Kimberlin Young – Stock Clerk (Maintenance Department)
Kimberlin, affectionately known as “Kim,” has been a valued member of the RTA team for 16 years, serving as a Stock Clerk. She is a dedicated inventory control specialist, known for her strong work ethic and reliability. Kim takes great pride in keeping a clean, organized, and safe workspace. She works closely with RTA mechanics and is committed to aiding them promptly and efficiently. Kim welcomes new tasks and challenges, and she often contributes thoughtful suggestions to improve departmental operations. 

Keoka Powell – Communications Dispatcher (Operations Department)
Keoka has been a valued member of the RTA team for 10 years. Known for her patience and exceptional multitasking skills, Keoka manages multiple calls each day, each with unique needs and always with calm and care. Her ability to solve problems quickly and effectively has made her a trusted resource among colleagues, who often turn to her for guidance and support. Keoka loves her role at RTA and especially enjoys the daily interactions with fellow employees.