Oklahoma City, December 2, 2025
Oklahoma City is seeking resident input to enhance its public transportation system through a new survey aimed at gathering opinions on current transit services. The initiative emphasizes community engagement and aims to identify potential funding options based on feedback from metro residents. The survey evaluates satisfaction with EMBARK services and explores various funding mechanisms to improve public transportation in the area.
Oklahoma City Gathers Feedback on Public Transportation Initiatives
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The City of Oklahoma City is seeking resident input to improve its public transportation system through a newly launched survey aimed at collecting opinions on current transit services and identifying potential funding options. This initiative reflects a commendable effort to engage with citizens, illustrating how local leaders can draw on community insights to drive civic innovations.
The survey was recently mailed to a select group of metro residents and is designed to evaluate satisfaction with existing services, such as EMBARKOK, while exploring various strategies for funding potential expansions. Residents’ perspectives are crucial here; their voices can significantly influence how public transportation evolves to meet the diverse needs of Oklahoma City.
Survey Overview
The survey consists of questions regarding the city’s public transit options, focusing on EMBARK. In particular, residents are asked to express their support for four proposed funding mechanisms aimed at enhancing service:
- Adding $20 to annual vehicle registration fees within the EMBARK service area.
- Implementing a partial-cent sales tax in area metro counties.
- Introducing a tax of up to 85 cents per $1,000 of taxable valuation of houses in areas serviced by EMBARK.
- Enacting a small sales fee on real estate transactions.
Responses will be rated on a scale from “not at all supportive” to “strongly support,” allowing city officials to gauge community sentiment on these funding initiatives. Importantly, this survey is not a precursor to immediate implementation; rather, it serves as a benchmark for understanding public opinion to guide future decisions regarding funding.
Building on Past Engagements
This initiative builds on the foundation laid by EMBARK prior to the pandemic, which previously conducted non-rider surveys. Moving forward, EMBARK aims to continue these surveys biennially to stay attuned to the community’s evolving needs and preferences. The participation of non-riders is especially encouraged, as their insights can highlight gaps in service and areas for improvement.
How to Participate
Oklahoma City residents wishing to contribute to this important dialogue about public transportation can visit the official EMBARK website for more information or reach out to the Public Information Office at (405) 297-2578 for participation details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the survey?
The survey aims to gather resident opinions on Oklahoma City’s public transportation options and potential funding mechanisms to enhance the transit system.
Who received the survey?
The survey was mailed to a select group of Oklahoma City metro residents to assess satisfaction levels and gather feedback on public transportation services.
What funding options are being considered?
The survey explores four proposed funding sources: adding $20 to annual vehicle registration fees within the EMBARK service area, implementing a partial-cent sales tax in area metro counties, introducing a tax of up to 85 cents per $1,000 of taxable valuation of houses in areas serviced by EMBARK, and enacting a small sales fee on real estate transactions.
Is there a timeline for implementing these funding options?
Currently, there are no immediate plans to implement these funding options. The survey serves as a tool to gauge public opinion and inform future decisions regarding public transportation funding.
How can residents participate in the survey?
Residents can visit the official EMBARK website or contact the Public Information Office at (405) 297-2578 for more information or to participate in the survey.
Key Features of the Survey
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | Oklahoma City metro residents |
| Survey Content | Opinions on public transportation options and potential funding mechanisms |
| Funding Options Explored | Vehicle registration fee increase, sales tax, property tax, real estate transaction fee |
| Implementation Timeline | No immediate plans; survey serves as a benchmark for community sentiment |
| Participation Encouraged | Residents not currently using EMBARK services are encouraged to participate |
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