By Fox23.com News Staff
TULSA, Okla. — MetroLink Tulsa announced it will be holding a Free Fare Day in honor of board member Bruce Niemi.
Niemi, who was a Tulsa native and served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 1991 to 1993, passed away at the age of 76.
Niemi joined the Metrolink Tulsa Board in September 2025. MetroLink said Niemi advocated for policies that strengthened transit accessibility, improved service and expanded mobility options for residents across the region.
“Bruce believed public transit should grow with the community and meet people where they are,” said Scott Marr, General Manager of MetroLink Tulsa. “He pushed for expanded access, improved service and ensured transportation remained a reliable option for all Tulsans.”
MetroLink said Niemi developed an interest in transportation from an early age through his experiences riding the bus, which influenced his later work in public service. Niemi also taught political science and government at Tulsa Community College and area high schools. Niemi held leadership roles within local and state organizations focused on public engagement and equity.
“Bruce Niemi believed deeply in public service and in the role public institutions play in strengthening communities. The Metropolitan Tulsa Transit Authority’s decision to honor Bruce with a free fare day reflects the lasting impact of his service,” Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols said. “On behalf of the City of Tulsa, I’m humbled to continue to honor his legacy and a life well-lived.”
All MetroLink Tulsa services will operate fare-free throughout the day on Jan. 30. No fare, pass or ticket will be required to ride.
