New Orleans Regional Transit Authority

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The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority ( "RTA" or "RiTA," as it is called by some residents) is a body established by the Louisiana State Legislature in 1979; since 1983 it has controlled bus and light-rail service in the City of New Orleans.

Previously, public mass transit, electric, and natural gas were all controlled by the private New Orleans Public Service Incorporated (NOPSI). The switch to a public operation was motivated by lack of profitability and the desire to be eligible for federal funding.

Hurricane Katrina

City buses were used before Hurricane Katrina hit to transport people to a refuge of last resort, the Louisiana Superdome. Much of the city flooded due to the storm. The NORTA Administration building on Plaza Drive appears to have been in 10 feet of water. 146 city buses were visible outdoors in the flood at the 2817 Canal Street facility , while only 22 were at 3900 Desire Pky. The 8201 Willow St facility was one block within the flood but was built above street level. The buses at the flooded facilities will likely have to be rebuilt or replaced.

Some service is slowly being restored to certain areas as they become habitable again.

See also

External link

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