NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is preparing for the city’s 2025 Mardi Gras season with service adjustments designed to keep riders moving safely and efficiently. As Carnival season remains fluid with street closures and evolving parade conditions, RTA urges all riders to stay updated on service changes.  

“With the excitement of Mardi Gras comes necessary transit adjustments to ensure everyone gets where they need to go safely,” said Lona Edwards Hankins, RTA CEO. “We encourage all riders to plan ahead, remain flexible, and stay informed through our various communication channels.”

Service Adjustments: 

• Bus Detours: Routes will be adjusted two hours before parade start times and will remain in effect until the streets are cleared. 
• Streetcar Service: This weekend streetcars will operate up to two hours before parade start times. Thursday, February 27, or as conditions warrant, streetcar service will be suspended along the St. Charles line from Napoleon Ave to Canal Street until after Mardi Gras Day. Bus shuttle services will be provided connecting riders from Napoleon Ave. to Canal Street.  
• Ferry Service: An additional ferry will be deployed on parade days with extended operating hours to accommodate increased ridership. 

Be Safe & Stay Informed:

• Avoid Camping or Parking on Streetcar Tracks to ensure safe and uninterrupted operations. 
• Sign Up for Service Alerts: Text “RTAUPDATES” to 41411 for real-time transit notifications. 
• Plan: Visit norta.com/mardigras, download the LePass app, or call the RTA Rideline at 504-248-3900 for the latest service updates. 

For the most up-to-date Mardi Gras transit information, visit norta.com/mardigras or follow RTA on social media. 

For press inquiries/interview requests: contact Zach Stanfill at zstanfill@rtaforward.org. 

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The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority is a political subdivision 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.