Omaha's Metro Area Transit (MAT) is moving into the future while recapturing the past.

Vintage buses circulating throughout downtown will soon be "the talk of the town," bringing a head-turning mark of excellence to the city's transit system. MAT, Nebraska's largest people mover, will dedicate the Retro fleet exclusively to the Downtown Circulator Bus System that will move workers, residents, students, tourists and conventioneers around in modern comfort - with a taste of nostalgia mixed in.

"Retro" buses will operate seven days a week and evening along recognizable routes, providing a rapid and easily understood transit system.

Riders will pay 25 cent, single-coin fare to move about in historic, yet modernized, "Retro" buses serving the business, government and entertainment center at the heart of one of the nation's hottest downtown redevelopment areas on the Missouri River bank.

The unique concept of updating retired buses to full-time status with new
operating systems and ADA compliant features ensures the vintage exteriors
sit securely atop state of the art running gear with interior amenities that
include reading lights and tinted windows.

The re-fitting will be done at MAT Headquarters where mechanics will combine new and old into the distinctive historic bus, complete with rounded corners and interior advertising that are guaranteed to turn heads and attract riders. Omahan's who rode the bus in the 1950s will easily recognize the friendly Retro look.

Retro buses will be guided by state-of-the-art global positioning. Riders will know exactly when they'll depart or arrive by consulting kiosks placed strategically throughout downtown or at distinctive stops with schedules and routes prominently displayed.

On August 26, 2002, the circulator bus routes service began in the downtown area. The rush hour and lunchtime service operate on five-minute frequency with a one-way 25-cent fare. The routes mean easy access to lunch spots and parking throughout downtown.

Click Here to get route, schedule and fare information.

MAT's Retro circulators are part of a master plan to re-engineer the city's entire surface transit system. Within a few years, Omaha and visitors can expect to ride buses in style, comfort and on time - throughout the metropolitan area.

Funding

MAT is seeking private donations to purchase and retrofit to modern standards 10 historic buses formerly operated in Omaha and Council Bluffs, Iowa that have been in storage since their retirement up to 50 years ago.

Individual and corporate sponsors are being sought and contributions will be recognized both publicly and on the exterior of the Retro buses. Restoration cost per vehicle is $150,000, including the bus, parts and labor.

Persons and organizations interested in donating should contact:

Gary Ruegg,
MAT Executive Director
2222 Cuming Street
Omaha, NE 69102-4392
(402) 341-7560 extension 2100
gruegg@omamat.org