Trustees authorize RFPs to update fare policy, seek Olympic transit planners and communications vendors

The Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority trustees on March 6 authorized requests for proposals to update Embark’s fare policy and farebox technology, to hire media-buying and public-relations consultants, and to secure transportation-planning support for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

A staff presenter told trustees the current farebox technology dates to the late 1990s and that a policy review is standard practice about every five years. The RFP will recommend a revised fare structure and options for modernizing farebox equipment to make fare payment easier, including integration considerations for the 2028 Olympic events Embark will help support.

“It's time for us to update our fare change policy and take a look at possibly upgrading the farebox technology,” the Staff member said while outlining the scope and the need to consider Olympic coordination.

Trustees also authorized separate RFPs to retain media-buying partners and public-relations/strategic-communications firms to support routine outreach and emergency communications. The board approved an RFP to hire transportation-planning and coordination consultants to prepare for LA28; staff said alternates in that solicitation include support for police, fire, IT and the city manager’s office and that city council will consider a companion item on March 10.

Why it matters: Embark emphasized ramping up planning and communications now to ensure system resilience during the Games and to modernize aging fare collection equipment for improved customer experience. The board approved advertising the RFPs by voice vote.

Next steps: Staff will advertise the RFPs and return to the board with recommended proposals and contract awards after the solicitation and evaluation processes.