Bus rapid transit service arrived in Omaha last month.

ORBT, which stands for Omaha Rapid Bus Transit, officially launched Nov. 18.

From boarding at elevated platforms to real-time bus arrival updates and bus-only lanes, ORBT riders experience a smooth, efficient and safe journey to and from downtown Omaha.

ORBT runs from Westroads to 10th Street connecting riders to major destinations along Dodge and Douglas streets.

“ORBT is the most significant Omaha transit investment in decades,” Lauren Cencic, Metro Transit CEO, said in a news release. “We look forward to connecting more people in our community to education, employment and daily activities with this new, safe, efficient transit option.”

ORBT will intersect with almost all existing Metro routes, increasing efficiency across the transporattion system. A free, dedicated Park & Ride lot is available at the Westroads Transit Center, where ORBT connects with other Metro routes. It is designed to enhance area mobility options, including access to the trail system, proximity to bike share stations and the ability for riders to bring and safely store bicycles on board the bus.

ORBT has fewer stops than most bus routes allowing for quicker, more efficient travel. West of 30th Street, Transit Signal Priority technology is in place at traffic lights and will recognize an oncoming ORBT vehicle and extend a green light. East of 30th Street, bus lanes are dedicated to ORBT to reduce delays.

“I’m thrilled Omaha has committed to enhancing transit and am so pleased to have been a part of helping bus rapid transit become a reality,” Jay Lund, chair of Metro’s Board of Directors, said in a release. “Launching ORBT proves we are a future-focused city that is prepared for our next exciting chapter.”

 ORBT buses are cleaned and sanitized regularly. Bus cabin air is refreshed every five to 14 minutes. To encourage ridership and celebrate the launch, ORBT rides are free through March.

Funding for the $37 million project came from a U.S. Department of Transportation grant in the amount of $14.9 million. The project also received contributions from private entities, including the Peter Kiewit Foundation, the Sherwood Foundation, the Nebraska Environmental Trust and Metropolitan Utilities District. In-kind contributions came from the City of Omaha, Metro Area Planning Agency and Heartland B-cycle. Metro also contributed other grant funds.

“ORBT is an investment in our neighborhoods, our city and our region,” Cencic said. “It’s an enormous accomplishment on its own but – beyond that – an important signal about Metro’s vision and commitment to the future.”