Community Planning & Transportation Committee, 2/26/26

The City of Norman's Community Planning & Transportation Committee met on February 26, 2026, to discuss several transit and parking-related agenda items. Key procurement and budget discussions focused on the fiscal year 2027 transit budget, including potential cost impacts from tariffs on three buses ordered from manufacturer Gillig, projected at a 5% increase. The committee reviewed ridership data, microtransit service costs (Norman on Demand), and options to reduce service to fit budget constraints. The Embark contract for transit operations was projected at approximately $4.9 million with a $210,000 increase for staff costs. The committee considered adding $28,000 for increased security at the Norman Transit Center and discussed the possibility of discontinuing or reducing the Oklahoma City-Norman Route 24 due to budget pressures. Parking management was also addressed, including rate adjustments for downtown and courthouse area parking, with a focus on balancing revenue and public access. Additionally, the committee received updates on upcoming construction projects, including a bridge over the Canadian River and road improvements with potential cost-sharing agreements that could save the city millions. The committee emphasized maintaining a transit fund reserve and avoiding general fund subsidies where possible. No formal votes were recorded in the transcript, but several action items and budget priorities were identified for further consideration.