OKC Streetcar to remain free permanently as ridership climbs

The OKC Streetcar will remain free to ride permanently following a successful six-month pilot program that saw ridership climb significantly during the first half of 2026. 

The Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority (COTPA) adopted a resolution Aug. 7 establishing permanent zero-fare service for the streetcar. EMBARK launched the free-fare pilot in January to determine whether eliminating fares would encourage more people to use the downtown transit system. 

The results showed a substantial increase in ridership. An analysis comparing January through June 2026 with the same six-month period in 2025 found streetcar ridership increased by an average of 71% month over month. 

“We’re pleased to see these positive results from the ridership analysis and to create a Zero Fare OKC Streetcar system for our residents and visitors,” said Jesse Rush, director of EMBARK. “As our city continues to invest in projects and host major events coming to downtown Oklahoma City, the streetcar can improve downtown circulation, help ease traffic congestion and boost economic activity for downtown businesses.” 

The growth during the pilot contributed to a strong year overall for the streetcar. The system recorded 273,699 rides during fiscal year 2026, a 12.6% increase from the previous fiscal year. 

Ridership accelerated during the final months of FY26, reaching 33,660 rides in March, 32,876 in April, 33,203 in May and 36,756 in June. June marked the streetcar’s highest-ridership month of the fiscal year and was more than two-and-a-half times the 14,467 rides recorded in June 2025. 

The permanent zero-fare service comes as downtown Oklahoma City continues to see new development and prepares to host major events in the years ahead. By eliminating fares, the streetcar provides residents and visitors with a free option for traveling between downtown districts, attractions, businesses and other destinations. 

The OKC Streetcar operates seven days a week across two loops with 22 stops served by seven modern streetcars. 

For routes, maps and additional information, visit EMBARK's OKC Streetcar website.