News Releases
RTA Hosts 15th Annual Hurricane Preparedness Meeting for Seniors and People with Disabilities
- May 18th, 2023
NEW ORLEANS – On Thursday, the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority hosted its 15th Annual Hurricane Preparedness Meeting for Seniors and People with Disabilities at The Clover in the Lower Garden District. The RTA Board Chair Mark Raymond Jr., RTA CEO Lona Hankins, WDSU Meteorologist Damon Singleton, and representatives from the City Of New Orleans were on hand to urge residents to make storm preparations.
Officials offered an overview of the City-Assisted Evacuation Plan, noting that RTA is for those who wish to evacuate during an emergency and lack the ability to do so on their own.
Riders are encouraged to go to their regular bus swill allow RTA buses to move people more efficiently, taking advantage of the fact that are already familiar with bus routes. All buses will detour at Smoothie King Center for drop-off. (It should be noted that all Evacuspots are located along the transit routes.)
Residents who are able are encouraged to take a bus if they do not have their own personal evacuation plan. Residents unable to board a bus (including those with medical constraints or disabilities) are encouraged to call 311 for assistance. If residents are traveling with pets, RTA will allow small pets, in carriers, situated on the owner’s lap.
To prepare for the season, it’s always helpful to:
- Make a plan in order to be ready for any weather event
- Create a list, including being prepared for loss of power when you don’t have access to your cell phone or computer
- Learn what is acceptable to bring on buses
- Enroll in Smart311 and share your medical information. Visit www.smart911.com or download the Smart911 app (Apple Store or Google Play).
The Atlantic Hurricane season occurs yearly from June 1 through November 30. In the event of a major hurricane impacting the city of New Orleans, RTA partners with NOLA Ready and the City of New Orleans to assist in evacuating residents who cannot safely do so on their own. The 2023 Hurricane Preparedness Guide has helpful info on preparing for the hurricane season. Pick one up at the RTA Headquarters, or on your bus, streetcar, ferry, or paratransit vehicle. You can also view online at the link here. (You can access the guide in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.)
Residents are strongly urged to follow NOLA Ready through their website and social media channels (@nolaready). For transit-related information, visit www.norta.com, call the RTA Rideline at 504-248-3900, and follow RTA on social media at @neworleansrta.
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The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority is a sub-division of the State of Louisiana which is operated by an independent Board of Commissioners that serves Orleans, Jefferson and St. Bernard parishes. The agency operates car and passenger ferries, fixed-route buses, paratransit, streetcar, and limited on-demand service.
© Regional Transit Authority