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RTA outlines fleet replacements, downtown transit center and ferry funding challenges; reports 61 vacancies
Summary
Regional Transit Authority CEO Lona Edwards Hankins told the council the agency has modernized its fleet and is advancing a downtown transit center and Algiers Terminal design; the RTA reported 61 vacancies among roughly 894 budgeted full‑time equivalents and said ferry funding remains unsustainable without regional or state support.
Lona Edwards Hankins, chief executive officer of the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority, presented the RTA's 2025 accomplishments and 2026 priorities, saying the agency has procured a new hybrid and diesel fleet and is implementing software improvements to enhance service reliability.
Hankins outlined major capital projects: advancing design for a downtown transit center (planned for Canal and Basin) and moving forward on an Algiers Terminal construction contract. She said the RTA will begin advertising for a downtown transit center designer within 60–90 days and expects the Algiers Terminal construction to progress in the same timeframe.
On fare policy, the RTA reported a consultant study of fare technology and said its goals include fare capping for regular riders to limit monthly costs while enabling higher fares on tourist‑oriented services such as the airport line and certain streetcars. The RTA also discussed a universal accessibility study and community engagement for planned bus‑rapid‑transit design.
Hankins said the fleet and service improvements were undertaken while RTA sought a sustainable funding solution for ferries after tolls ended. She said Algiers ferry service has been subsidized from fixed‑route funds and the agency will pursue federal grants and regional partnerships to establish a stable revenue stream.
CFO Giselle Johnson Banks reported the RTA budgets roughly $96 million for personnel and $49 million for operating costs in 2026 projections and is planning for about $15.7 million in local matches for capital projects. The RTA reported 61 vacancies among some 894 budgeted FTEs and said it will prioritize hiring in critical field positions (mechanics and operators) to maintain service.
Council members urged robust community engagement over downtown transit center siting and design; the RTA committed to community meetings as designs progress.
