Mark Your Calendar: Mobility Week 2025
November 2–8
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Agencies across Oklahoma are invited to participate in Mobility Week 2025, a statewide initiative highlighting the importance of public transportation and mobility options. From November 2–8, transit providers will showcase services, engage with their communities, and help raise awareness of the role mobility plays in connecting people and places. If your agency is planning an activity for Mobility Week, please fill out the Participation Form.
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OkTA Recognized on the National Stage
Oklahoma Transit Association Honored with National Innovation Award at 2025 APTA TRANSform Conference
The Oklahoma Transit Association (OkTA) has been recognized nationally for its leadership and innovation in public transportation. At the 2025 APTA TRANSform Conference, held September 14–17 in Boston, Massachusetts, OkTA was awarded the prestigious Innovation Award by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).
The APTA Awards celebrate organizations and leaders across North America whose vision and creativity are advancing the future of transit. OkTA was one of only four organizations nationwide to receive the 2025 Innovation Award, joining agencies from New York, Oregon, and Washington in being honored for groundbreaking contributions to the industry.
“This honor reflects the creativity, collaboration, and commitment of Oklahoma’s transit providers to deliver solutions that truly meet the needs of our communities,” said Andrea Ball, Executive Director of OkTA. “We are proud to represent Oklahoma on the national stage and to show how innovation in transit can strengthen connections, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life.”
Gilbert Nuncio, OkTA Treasurer and Transit Director at Red River Transportation, accepted the award on behalf of OkTA during the Boston conference.
OkTA was recognized for its leadership in [insert specific initiative/program—e.g., rural mobility solutions, workforce development, or technology adoption]. This initiative demonstrated how statewide collaboration and forward-thinking strategies can create lasting impact for riders and communities alike.
APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas praised the awardees, noting: “The achievements and legacies of our awardees inspire us all to continue striving for excellence in our industry and to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.”
Photo below: Gilbert Nuncio, Treasurer of the Oklahoma Transit Association and Transit Director at Red River Transportation, accepts the 2025 APTA Innovation Award on behalf of OkTA at the TRANSform Conference in Boston.
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OkTA Member Benefit in Action Across the State
OkTA is dedicated to supporting and empowering transit members across the state. We’re excited to introduce a new way to connect with us and access personalized support tailored to your needs.
Whether you’d like us to visit your transit facility, attend a board meeting, speak at a specific event, or provide specialized training, we’re here to help you achieve your goals and strengthen your transit system.
To schedule your request, simply click the Request Button, complete the form, and the OkTA team will be in touch!
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Oklahoma Transit Task Force Delivers First Report on Statewide Expansion
The legislatively created Transit Task Force submitted its first report on October 1, outlining recommendations for sustainable funding, workforce development, and technology adoption to strengthen transit across Oklahoma. The findings will help shape future policy and investment priorities.
Read more: CitizenPortal.ai – Oklahoma Transit Task Force Report
ODOT Approves $8 Billion Eight-Year Work Plan Amid Rising Costs
On October 7, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation adopted its 2026–2033 plan, prioritizing hundreds of bridge and highway projects. Inflation and federal budget uncertainty have already forced delays, underscoring the need for stable funding streams.
Read more: KFOR – ODOT Delays Dozens of Road Projects
Oklahoma City Voters to Decide $2.7 Billion Bond Package October 14
The largest municipal bond in state history goes before voters next week, with $129.67 million dedicated to transit and parking projects. Plans include a new EMBARK operations facility, fleet modernization, and a downtown parking garage.
Read more: City of OKC – 2025 Bond Election Information
Federal Budget Stalemate Freezes Transit Funding in Major Cities
The U.S. Department of Transportation has paused billions in transit funding for projects in New York and Chicago during the ongoing budget impasse. While Oklahoma projects are not directly affected, the uncertainty highlights the importance of long-term federal commitments.
Read more: NPR Illinois – Trump Freezes $2.1B for Chicago Transit Projects
APTA Releases 2025 Public Transportation Vehicle Database
The American Public Transportation Association has published its latest vehicle database, highlighting growth in zero-emission buses and fleet modernization nationwide. The data offers valuable insights for Oklahoma agencies planning future procurements.
Read more: APTA – 2025 Public Transportation Vehicle Database
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Federal Closure Update – Executive Summary
The federal government shutdown began October 1, 2025. While FTA operations remain largely stable, new grant approvals are paused and multi-agency projects may face delays. OkTA is actively monitoring developments and maintaining direct communication with FTA regional offices.
Key Highlights:
- FTA reimbursements for approved projects continue; all staff remain active
- FRA has furloughed 23% of staff; safety oversight remains in place
- The Oklahoma Transit Task Force report is overdue and may impact future state funding
- Legislative interim studies on rural mobility and infrastructure could shape 2026 proposals
- THUD appropriations show conflicting House and Senate positions; final funding levels remain uncertain
View the full PDF Executive Summary
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OkTA Annual Conference 2025
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Register Today – OkTA 2025 Annual Conference & Tradeshow
October 21–24, 2025
The countdown is on! In just a few weeks, transit professionals from across Oklahoma will gather in Tulsa for the premier event of the year — the OkTA Annual Conference & Tradeshow.
This is your chance to:
- Dive into educational breakout sessions led by industry experts
- Gain fresh insights through professional development opportunities
- Explore 80+ exhibitors showcasing the latest in transit innovation
- Build valuable connections with peers and partners who share your mission
Quick Start:
Register Now
View the Tentative Program Agenda
Reserve Your Hotel Room
Complete your OkTA registration form and reserve your hotel accommodations using the links provided. Once submitted, our office will process your registration and email your invoice within two business days — payable online by credit card or by check.
For questions, email oktransit@oktransit.org
For immediate assistance, call or text Andrea Ball at 301‑335‑2715.
Don’t miss the conversations, the connections, and the momentum that will shape the future of transit in Oklahoma. We’ll see you in Tulsa this October!
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Part-Time Relief CDL Driver – ROC Bus Wanted
Are you a CDL-licensed driver looking for flexible, part-time work? Join our team as a relief driver for the ROC Bus! You’ll play an important role in bringing our mobile outreach and education efforts to the community.
Key Responsibilities:
- Attend and drive to scheduled events (a few times each month)
- Assist with set up and take down at event sites
- Educate visitors about the ROC Bus and our programs
- Perform wheelchair securement and assist visitors with accessibility needs (training provided)
Why Join Us?
- Flexible scheduling – we’ll work with your availability
- Opportunity to make a difference in the community
- Training provided for all duties, including wheelchair securement
- Supportive and friendly team environment
If you’re interested in being part of a mission-driven team and have a current CDL, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today to become a ROC Bus relief driver. Pay includes a daily rate, per diem and mileage to and from the bus yard in Oklahoma City, OK
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Bring the Rolling Oklahoma Classroom (ROC Bus) to Your Next Event!
The Rolling Oklahoma Classroom is an innovative initiative funded by a grant provided by the Federal Transit Administration. The bus's purpose is to raise awareness of public transportation options in urban, rural, and tribal areas. In addition to addressing human trafficking awareness and prevention throughout the state, it offers transit workers hands-on, practical safety and security training.
Why Schedule the ROC Bus?
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Public Transit Awareness: Learn about various public transit options available in your area.
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Safety and Security Training: Receive hands-on training for transit workers to ensure a safer commute for everyone.
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Human Trafficking Prevention: Gain valuable insights and tools to combat human trafficking in our communities.
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Accessible to All: Available to every community, tribal nation, and public event in Oklahoma by request and at no cost.
Perfect for:
- Community Events
- School Fairs
- Tribal Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- Festivals
How to Schedule:
Organizations interested in requesting a ROC visit are encouraged to complete the request form. Don't miss this unique opportunity to enhance your event with valuable information and engaging activities.
Contact Us:
Let’s make your 2025 event impactful and educational with the ROC Bus!
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Interested in Volunteering?
OkTA is seeking committee members! OkTA has a several committees that help drive transit forward in Oklahoma and would love your help! Most committees take no more than 1-2 hours per month and meet via Zoom. If you are interested, please contact the OkTA office to learn more or sign up!
- ROC Bus Committee
- Advocacy Committee
- Communications Committee
- Finance Committee
- Grants Committee
- Education Committee
- Convention Committee
- Membership Committee
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NOMINATE A DRIVER DOING GOOD!
In this day and age, a kind word and a steady presence is especially meaningful and is the mark of quality customer service. Professional drivers know that their job has the potential to change a person’s day for the better. Help the OkTA to recognize these special individuals who go out of their way to care for others! Submit "Drivers Doing Good" stories or photos by sending an email to admin@oktransit.org.
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