EMBARK plans community celebration to launch RAPID NW service

December 6, 2023

Residents across central Oklahoma are invited to celebrate the launch of RAPID NW on Saturday, Dec. 9 from noon to 4 p.m. at the park-and-ride, located at the northeast corner of the NW Expressway and Meridian Ave. intersection.

The day’s activities are designed to create a festive atmosphere for families who want to be some of the first people to ride central Oklahoma’s inaugural bus rapid transit line.

“RAPID’s launch marks an evolution in our transit service offerings and continues EMBARK’s mission to elevate the status and use of public transit,” said Jason Ferbrache, Assistant City Manager and EMBARK Administrator. “We hope people in the northwest region of the city and beyond will join us to celebrate this momentous occasion.

“For one day, this new park-and-ride will transform into a ‘celebration station,’ giving families the chance to learn more about RAPID while enjoying holiday-filled activities. Even better, RAPID has free fares right now and can be used to get to the event.”

“Celebration Station” activities include holiday-themed crafts, complimentary food and beverages, and holiday entertainment by local artists and performers. Activities are free and open to the public.

The December 9 activities are a culmination of celebratory events that mark the start of RAPID service, with the first date of service set Sunday, Dec. 3 and the official ribbon cutting set Monday, Dec. 4.The RAPID NW line service will be fare-free through Dec. 31.

RAPID NW has 32 stop platforms, stretches 9.5 miles each way, and integrates into the more extensive EMBARK transit network. The line travels through the downtown core and through one of the region's most job-dense and high-traffic corridors. RAPID is composed of nine Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles with upgraded seating and amenities. RAPID will operate 365 days a year with service at each of the stops every 12-15 minutes during peak service. The raised-platforms facilitate level ADA accessible boarding, real-time customer information, waste receptacles, ticketing kiosk, security lighting, bike racks and branded pylons.

The construction of the RAPID $28.9 million NW Line is funded in part by the City of Oklahoma City, Central Oklahoma Transportation & Parking Authority and the U.S. Department of Transportation. Two additional lines are in design as part of the voter-approved MAPS 4 Transit Project.