One of the most common challenges we hear from associates and clients who are blind or visually impaired is transportation. Reliable, accessible transportation is crucial for maintaining independence, whether it’s getting to work, attending medical appointments, or staying connected to the community.
Fortunately, there are several transportation options available throughout Omaha and the surrounding areas that cater specifically to individuals with disabilities and senior citizens. In this blog, we highlight three categories of services: local special transit services, Metro Transit Omaha, and ride-share and app-based services.
Special Transit Services Outside of Omaha
Several cities near Omaha provide accessible transportation options primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services typically require riders to submit applications and make reservations in advance. Cost, travel locations, and operating hours may vary by provider.
La Vista – Ralston Special Services Bus
The La Vista – Ralston Special Services Bus prioritizes work and medical-related trips for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities residing in these areas.
- Operates Monday through Friday
- Reservations are required at least 48 business hours in advance
To learn more about the La Vista – Ralston Special Services Bus, click here or call 402-657-3550.
Papillion Special Transportation Services
Papillion Special Transportation Services is an on-demand service subsidized by the State of Nebraska for elderly and disabled residents of Papillion, including those in surrounding SIDs.
- Operates Monday through Friday
- Reservations are required 24-48 hours in advance
- Permanent transportation for non-medical reasons (like work or school) is not offered
To learn more about Papillion’s Special Transportation Services, click here or call 402-680-3970.
Bellevue’s Specialized Transportation Service
Bellevue’s Specialized Transportation Service offers scheduled transportation to destinations in Bellevue and Omaha for senior and disabled residents.
- Operates Monday through Friday
- Riders must pre-register and schedule trips in advance
To learn more, call 402-293-3138 to receive an informational brochure and application.
Ponca
Ponca Express offers transportation services for both Native and non-Native individuals. It operates across several Nebraska cities and is available for a wide range of purposes, including medical appointments, education, and recreation.
- Available in Norfolk, Niobrara, Omaha, Lincoln, and Sioux City
- Travels within a three-hour radius of each service area
- Rides are scheduled Monday through Friday
To learn more about Ponca Express, click here or call 1-877-769-3111 for Ponca Express Rural or 855-766-2239 for Ponca Express Metro.
Council Bluffs Special Transit Service
Council Bluffs Special Transit Service offers accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use standard city buses.
- Operates Monday through Saturday
- Service area includes Council Bluffs and limited parts of Omaha
To learn more about Council Bluffs Special Transit Service, click here or call 712-890-5296.
Getting Around Omaha with Metro Transit Services
Metro Transit offers a range of public transportation services throughout Omaha, including traditional bus routes and newer on-demand programs such as Metro Flex, as well as an ADA-compliant paratransit service called MOBY.
Metro Bus System
The Metro bus system includes over 2,100 stops across the Omaha area.
- Operates daily
- Plan your trip using the MyRide OMA app
- Pay with paper tickets, tokens, the Umo app, or a Umo smart card
Download from the App Store or Download from the Google Play Store
To learn more about the Metro Bus System, click here.
Metro Flex
Launched in 2025, Metro Flex is a pilot on-demand service that connects riders to nearby bus routes and transit centers.
- Operates in the North, South, and West Zones of Omaha
- Offers flexible rides with access to 7–11 bus routes per zone
- Operates daily
- Not eligible for discounted pass programs
To learn more about Metro Flex, click here.
ORBT
ORBT is Metro’s streamlined bus service offering faster rides.
- Covers an 8-mile route along Dodge and Douglas Streets
- Stops at 23 stations and four additional stops
- Operates daily
- Payment is only accepted through the Umo system
- Plan your trip using the MyRide OMA app
To learn more about ORBT, click here.
MOBY
MOBY is Metro’s ADA complementary paratransit service for individuals who can’t access Metro’s fixed route bus network due to a disability or disabling health condition.
- Must be a registered user to ride
- Reservations are required by 4:30 p.m. the day before
- Can be booked up to 14 days in advance
- Service area: within ¾ mile of any Metro fixed route
- Operates during the same hours as fixed-route buses
To learn more about MOBY, click here or call 402-341-7560, ext. 2520 for assistance.
Ride-Share and App-Based Transportation Options
If public transportation isn’t the right fit for you, ride-share apps and taxi-style services provide additional flexibility.
Uber
Uber is one of the most popular ride-share apps, allowing you to schedule a ride instantly or in advance.
- Choose different ride types like UberX, UberX Share, and more
- Prices vary based on distance, time, and demand
To learn more or download the app, click here.
Lyft
Lyft offers features similar to Uber, with real-time and scheduled rides available through its app.
- Choose different ride types like Standard, XL, and more
- Prices vary based on distance, time, and demand
To learn more or download the app, click here.
zTrip
zTrip is a taxi-style ride service available in Omaha.
- Book online, through the app, or by phone
- Offers vehicle selection and advance booking
- Pricing varies based on distance and ride duration
- Accessible options are available
To learn more about zTrip or download the app, click here.
Share a Fare
Share A Fare is a transportation reimbursement program for individuals who are legally blind or whose vision prevents them from driving.
- Serves residents in Greater Omaha and Lincoln
- Reimburses 50% of the cost of taxi or ride-share trips, up to $100 per month
- Receipts can be submitted by mail, email, or in person at OAB or ACBN monthly meetings
- Reimbursements are issued quarterly
To learn more about Share a Fare, click here.
Accessible transportation is essential for staying active, independent, and connected to your community. Whether you’re in Omaha or a neighboring city, there are a variety of options designed to support your mobility needs and busy schedule.
If you or someone you know is blind or visually impaired and needs help navigating transportation options, Outlook Enrichment is here to help. Our Resource Advisor can guide you through the available programs, assist with applications, and help you find the best tools to support your lifestyle. Complete our contact form to get started.
