Central Oklahoma is rapidly growing and needs a modern transit system to match the needs of its people. ONE Transit has created a system plan to keep up with an ever-changing mobility landscape while connecting people to key activity centers like employers, educational institutions, and commercial centers.
An effective regional transit system allows for more than just mobility. We’re working towards a Central Oklahoma that is connected, accessible, affordable, safe, and economically prosperous. Our transit system plan is at the heart of ONE Transit and informs everything we do. Understanding the plan helps explain our priorities and upcoming initiatives. Read on to learn how a comprehensive, regional transit system will provide important connections for years to come.
What is Regional Transit?
Your city may have public transit such as fixed bus routes, paratransit, river ferry travel, or even streetcar service. When public transit operates only in your city, it is referred to as “local transit.” However, when public transit operates between cities, suburbs, or counties, it is referred to as regional transit. A connected regional transit system paves the way for growth, connectivity, and improved quality of life for residents and visitors whether they are in a city center, suburban area, or rural community. Regional transit can include many modes of transportation to serve the needs of the community.
How ONE Transit Builds on Existing Systems and Initiatives
Our plan rests on collaboration with our member cities and regional transportation partners. Existing transit systems in Edmond, Oklahoma City, and Norman create a strong foundation for ONE Transit to build upon. These systems are great for local connections but leave room for high-capacity regional transit between communities.
The ONE Transit system plan also takes current initiatives into account. Currently, COTPA/EMBARK and Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) 4 are in the works to add even more Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service. On a broader scale, the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments’ (ACOG) Long Range Transit Plan (LRTP) informed the system plan by establishing regional priorities, funding opportunities, and reinforcing the need for expanded transit options in Central Oklahoma.
Existing systems, current initiatives, and coordinated regional planning are vital to a comprehensive transit network. By working with our partners, we’re putting together a transit puzzle that will create an effective, whole transit system to meet local and regional needs.
Where Will New Transit Lines be Built?
ONE Transit conducted local studies to determine where regional transit can best serve the community as well as which modes of transit best fit the location. Regional Corridor and Locally Preferred Alternatives (LPA) studies give us guidance to create the plan for an effective transit system by identifying the needs of local communities and their activity centers, as well as building on existing transit options. The corridors outlined below leave room for growth, development, and new member cities, allowing us to provide important connections to the Central Oklahoma region for decades to come.
- North/South Corridor: Commuter rail connecting Edmond to Norman via Oklahoma City, utilizing the existing BNSF railroad corridor
- East Corridor: Regional Bus Rapid Transit connecting downtown Oklahoma City to Tinker Air Force Base to the East via Reno Avenue, Eastern Avenue, and 29th Street
- Airport Corridor: Light Rail will connect downtown Oklahoma City to the Will Rogers International Airport via Reno Avenue and Meridian Avenue.
- West Corridor: Regional Bus Rapid Transit will connect downtown Oklahoma City to Western Oklahoma City via 10th Street, MacArthur Boulevard, Reno Avenue, Council Road, and 15th Street.
Learn more about Locally Preferred Alternatives by reading the studies and plans on our website.
The Vision of a United Central Oklahoma
ONE Transit will use existing local transit options and connecting them to create a region that is more united and ready to grow. Our future transit network uses a variety of transportation options to build a connected, efficient, and accessible region. Projects like commuter rail will allow for new connections and opportunities across the region. Through new transit options, our goal is to promote mobility, equity, sustainability, and prosperity throughout Central Oklahoma.
Stay Connected with ONE Transit
ONE Transit is more than just transportation; it’s a movement to shape the future of Central Oklahoma. Our Transit System Plan was designed for everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Central Oklahoma. We need your continued engagement to bring it to life. Stay connected with the latest in transit news by signing up for our newsletter, following us on Facebook and Instagram, or attending a public meeting.