“The RTA has always provided world class transportation for the citizens of New Orleans,” said State Rep. Candice Newell at the RTA’s recent ribbon cutting for 21 new diesel and hybrid buses. Newell, who worked for the RTA as her first job, was among the dozens of elected officials and community leaders who turned out for the September 24 event at the RTA’s Canal Street headquarters. The new buses will alleviate some of the problems caused by mechanical issues on older equipment, according to RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins. Hankins thanked RTA employees for their reliance and patience. “That’s how we roll,” Hankins exclaimed.
State Rep. Shaun Mena applauded the cooperation between the state, city and federal government that was needed to fund these buses and other transportation projects. Sources of funding included Community Block grants and the American Rescue Plan. “I’m always available to help the RTA in Baton Rouge,” Mena said. Former Councilmember Jared Brossett, now a governmental liaison with the Downtown Development District, praised the partnership between the RTA and the DDD. Downtown New Orleans is a “connector” for transit riders, Brossett explained.
Citywide Tenant Association President Cynthia Wiggins commended the RTA for improving the service that low income resident must use every day to get to work and to the grocery store.
New Orleans City Council member Eugene Green, who chairs the council’s Transportation Committee, talked about the city’s commitment to transit including the cooperative endeavor agreement for the new Opportunity Pass Pilot Program. Funded by the City Council, the program provides Orleans Parish youth ages 16 to 24 one year zero-fares to access free rides on RTA buses, streetcars and ferries. “This program will give our young people an opportunity to explore more of our city,” Green explained. Other partners in the pilot program include RIDE New Orleans, the New Orleans Public Library and the New Orleans Children and Youth Planning Board.
The RTA also plans to put in service 13 new transit vans by the end of 2024.
