top of page
​​​​​​Our History:

​

In 1970, a group of Missourians gathered to attend the White House Conference on Aging in Washington DC. At that meeting, transportation was cited as a barrier for many people, especially in rural areas. This prompted a group of Missouri volunteers to create a solution. The first vans pulled out of the parking lot on November 1, 1971 and we never stopped rolling! Our organization grew exponentially and by 1973 was located in over 80 Missouri counties. OATS Transit has grown to be one of the largest and most unique systems of its kind in the United States. Our company is committed to sustainability and the people who make up our employee workforce. Our commitment to cultural synergy and organizational change makes our team stronger and more efficient, which allows us to continue serving thousands of Missourians. It's our steadfast dedication to excellence and high standards that truly sets us apart.

​

OATS Transit has received numerous awards and recognition over the last four decades. Over the years, OATS Transit has been named the Rural Community Transportation System of the Year by the Community Transportation Association of America, and Transit Champions by the Missouri Public Transit Association.

 

OATS Transit takes pride in knowing we are the largest and most unique rural transportation provider in the entire country.

A group of OATS employees in 1971 inside of the Capital building.
A man in the 1970s being helped off of an OATS van.
bottom of page