August 2023

RAPID NW Progress Update

Click to watch our progress update video

Central Oklahoma’s first Bus Rapid Transit line – RAPID NW – launches in December 2023!

In our sixth RAPID BRT progress update video, EMBARK Senior Project Manager Kristen Torkelson takes a closer look at new bus platforms along Classen Blvd. serving businesses, neighborhoods, and other major destinations in the Asian District, Uptown 23rd and beyond. The video also includes a preview of the new smart transit technology EMBARK is installing to support RAPID and a behind-the-scenes look at bus operator recruitment and training.

***Reminder: RAPID stops and platforms remain under construction and are not yet open to the public. Barricades, signs, and traffic cones are in place for the public’s safety. Please do not attempt to use the platforms until service launches in December.***

Construction Update

• Of the 32 total bus platforms planned for the RAPID NW line, 29 concrete structures have been completed, and work is currently underway at all remaining locations. This includes new platforms at Park and Robinson downtown and at Classen and NW 23rd near Uptown 23rd and the Asian District.
  
  
• The first shipments of bus shelters began arriving in May and most have already been installed at platforms on the RAPID NW line.  
  
  
• The first pylon was installed at NW 63rd and Meridian, and work is currently in progress at most other platforms. These uniquely branded pylons display stop names and feature a digital screen with real-time arrival information.

Operations Update

• Hiring is nearly complete for the 21 bus operators that will be assigned to RAPID NW. Training is in progress, which includes both classroom learning and behind-the-wheel testing.
  
  
• EMBARK is still hiring for maintenance positions that will support RAPID and other critical bus operations, including mechanics and electronic technicians.
  
  
• Do you have the drive to serve your community? Check out current job openings at www.idriveokc.com

Community Engagement Update

• In July and August, EMBARK officials presented information about RAPID to several local nonprofit organizations, civic clubs, and business and industry groups, including Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, Mental Health Association Oklahoma, Northwest Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Oklahoma City, South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, and Women’s Transportation Seminar – Oklahoma Chapter.
  
  
• EMBARK is also conducting direct outreach to businesses, apartment complexes, neighborhood associations, and other organizations along the RAPID NW line.
  
  
• Is your business, neighborhood, or civic group interested in learning more about the benefits of RAPID? Request a speaker for your next meeting by contacting EMBARK Community Engagement Officer Cody Boyd at cody.boyd@okc.gov.

RAPID In The News

• “City Bus Rapid Transit December launch expected” – City Sentinel
  
  
• “City’s Bus Rapid Transit gaining speed; December launch expected” – Velocity OKC
  
  
• “OKC rapid transit project gains momentum” - ($) Journal Record
  
  
• “New rapid transit system launching fall 2023” – KWTV 9
  
  
• “OKC consultants invite public feedback to refine new preliminary BRT routes” - ($) The Oklahoman

Note: ($) indicates the story is behind a paywall, so you must have a paid subscription to access the media content.

MAPS 4/EMBARK BRT Preliminary Alternatives

MAPS 4/EMBARK BRT Alternatives Analysis Update

The MAPS 4/EMBARK Bus Rapid Transit project team has developed three preliminary BRT alignment alternatives for the Northeast and the South study areas for public review and input. These future BRT lines will interface with RAPID NW and other transit modes to provide a more comprehensive transit system. Your feedback will help the project team refine these proposed alignments and move toward the official adoption of a Locally Preferred Alternative for the corridors.

Visit www.maps4brt.com to take an online survey and find out about upcoming public engagement opportunities.

Check out previous RAPID NW videos:  

• Progress Update Video 1 here
• Progress Update Video 2 here
• Progress Update Video 3 here
• Progress Update Video 4 here
• Progress Update Video 5 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

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.