Ozark Regional Transit Divides One Route into Two to Better Serve Bentonville and Rogers
Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) has made a significant move to enhance public transportation in Bentonville and Rogers by dividing one route into two. This strategic decision aims to provide more efficient and targeted service to the growing communities, addressing the evolving needs of residents and commuters.
New Routes: BRC and R14
At the heart of this transformation are two new routes: the Bentonville-Rogers Connector (BRC) and Route 14. The BRC route replaces the former Bentonville-Rogers Express (BRX), offering a more streamlined connection between the two cities. This new route promises faster and more efficient travel, making it easier for people to commute between Bentonville and Rogers.
Route 14: Serving Key Destinations
Route 14 is the other significant addition, designed to serve major destinations in Bentonville. This route includes key stops such as Bentonville High School, Haas Hall Academy, Northwest Medical Center, and The Links Apartments. By focusing on these vital areas, ORT ensures that residents have easy access to essential services and educational institutions.
Improved Travel Times
The updated east-west route from the Bentonville Community Center to Downtown Rogers has cut travel time substantially. Originally taking 90 minutes, the journey now takes only 50 minutes. This significant reduction in travel time is attributed to the recent opening of 8th Street in Bentonville, which was a critical factor in ORT’s planning process. The improved infrastructure has allowed for more efficient bus operations, directly benefiting passengers
Community Benefits
The introduction of these new routes reflects two years of meticulous planning by ORT. The mission is clear: to provide reliable, sustainable transportation options that meet the needs of the community. By offering more efficient routes, ORT aims to reduce transportation barriers, enabling individuals to access employment, education, healthcare, and recreational activities without financial burden.
Enhanced Ridership
Ridership has already seen a positive impact with a 15% increase in the first few days of the new routes compared to January’s average. This surge in ridership is a testament to the effectiveness of ORT’s planning and implementation efforts. As community feedback continues to shape future improvements, it’s evident that these new routes are making a tangible difference in the region.
Future Developments
While these new routes have immediately improved public transit in Bentonville and Rogers, ORT remains committed to continuous improvement. Future plans include expanding services to other growing areas like Springdale and Fayetteville. By prioritizing feedback and available resources, ORT ensures that its transit system remains efficient, beneficial, and adaptive to the evolving needs of the community.
