Keolis began operating OmniRide services in Northern Virginia on Nov. 1, with this partnership the latest example of Keolis’ expanding footprint in the greater Washington, D.C. metro area.
This builds upon current operations of the Virginia Railway Express with Keolis now serving over 4.6 million residents in the region.
OmniRide provides local and commuter services to residents of Prince William and surrounding counties. These services provide the community with convenient transportation options, including commuter and local bus services, carpools, vanpools, ridesharing and a new pilot paratransit service.
Keolis’ female-led team assumed responsibility of OmniRide operations after a three-month transition period. General Manager Barbara Murdock, with more than 30 years in the transportation industry, will head the OmniRide team. In line with Keolis’ drive to increase diversity at all levels, the OmniRide management team includes 86 percent female leadership.
“Seeing months of careful planning come to fruition is truly rewarding. The entire leadership team has been working tirelessly to ensure a smooth and seamless transition,” Murdock said. “Keolis’ commitment to diversity is part of what brought me here, and I look forward to bringing those values to work every day as we build strong relationships with our employees and the OmniRide community.”
OmniRide also cosponsors the Virginia Railway Express commuter rail service in partnership with the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission, which is currently operated by Keolis. With the addition of OmniRide services in Virginia, Keolis has become a true multi-modal operator in the Washington D.C. metro area. OmniRide says this provides passengers with the highest level of customer service and a focus on improving their riding experience.
“We are excited to expand our partnership with the PRTC and to officially begin OmniRide operations,” said President and CEO of U.S. Bus Operations Aline Frantzen. “With the addition of OmniRide services, Keolis is providing critical multi-modal transportation and commuter services to northern Virginia and Washington D.C. residents. This is the first step in seamless travel, and we look forward to helping people move better throughout the area.”