Feb. 21, 2023

RAPID BRT Progress Update

Click to watch our progress update video

In our third RAPID progress update video, EMBARK Senior Project Manager Kristen Torkelson takes a closer look at ongoing Bus Rapid Transit improvements in Midtown, including major construction on Hudson Ave. and the nearby businesses and amenities that will be easily accessible by RAPID NW.

The video also highlights ongoing recruitment and hiring of new bus operators and mechanics for RAPID NW, including information on how you can apply to join EMBARK’s team.  

Construction Progress

• Of the 32 total bus platforms planned for the RAPID NW line, 20 concrete structures have been completed, and five are under construction. This includes the new platform at Hudson and NW 8th and platforms at Classen and NW 13th.
  
  
• Utility work is underway at Classen and NW 13th; Hudson and NW 8th; and Main and Broadway; and will be underway soon at NW Expressway and Blackwelder.
  
  
• Sidewalk and mid-block crossing improvements are underway at NW 42nd St. and Classen Blvd.
  
  
• Two dedicated bus pull-out lanes at NW Expressway and Penn Ave. have been completed.

Operations Update

• Six new RAPID buses have been delivered to EMBARK, and the remaining three buses are coming from the manufacturer later this year.
  
  
• EMBARK bus operators continue testing and training on the new RAPID buses, so you might see them out and about on city streets.
  
  
• We’re hiring! Recruitment of new bus operators and mechanics is underway – check out career opportunities at idriveokc.com.
  
  

OKC Moves Proposed Bus Service Changes

• The launch of RAPID NW will affect the existing fixed-route bus system, and EMBARK is planning significant service changes to several bus routes.
  
  
• EMBARK is hosting several community meetings in March to get public feedback on the proposed OKC Moves bus service changes, as well as the fare for RAPID NW.
  
  
• These service changes will affect the schedules and frequencies of all bus routes, as well as significant modifications to several bus routes to integrate RAPID NW into the transit system.
  
  
• Information is available online at embarkok.com/okcmoves.

Check out previous RAPID BRT videos:  

• Progress Update Video 1 here
• Progress Update Video 2 here
• RAPID vehicle reveal on May 26 here
• Groundbreaking ceremony on June 28 here
• How will RAPID travel work? Watch our conceptual video here
• First RAPID commercial here
  
  

Stay Connected

EMBARK's transit family will soon include a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. RAPID will bring high-frequency, premium transit service to central Oklahoma. The first line is expected to launch in Northwest OKC in Fall 2023. > Learn more about the project and upcoming service at embarkok.com/brt. > Sign up for quarterly RAPID Progress Updates and weekly Construction Updates here. > Follow RAPID on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. > Look for more RAPID progress update videos and announcements on YouTube.

The construction of the RAPID NW Line is funded in part by the City of OKC's Better Streets Safer City Bond Program, Central Oklahoma Transportation & Parking Authority, and the U.S. Department of Transportation.