NATP Member Spotlight: Dani Wright, Ponca Express

Jan 06, 2023

Tell us a little of your transit system’s background and history. How did the system start and where is it today?

We started in 2007, there was one manager and a part-time time driver. Today we have one director, two managers, two maintenance staff, two schedulers, and 17 transporters. Our fleet contains over 25 vehicles, and we have five different locations and operate both with rural and urban funding. We continue to expand staff and are looking at building an even larger transit facility.

photo of Ponca Transit Facility
photo of Dani Wright, Ponca Express transit manager

How long have you served as the manager/director?

I was the manager from 2009 until 2021 and have since been promoted to director.


How does your transit system serve the local community?

We offer on-demand curb-to-curb service.


What are some highlights of serving your community?

Getting to serve the people in our community is reward enough. People are so grateful for this service, and many cannot believe how affordable it is. We strive to serve those who are on fixed incomes, we know we will never make money, but we will continue to offer affordable, safe, and reliable transportation in our communities.

How does being a member of the Nebraska Association of Transportation Providers benefit your system?

Getting to meet many peers doing the same thing I enjoy doing. We have a great group of supporters who are willing to share thoughts and ideas and are always encouraging each other. We try to help each transit agency succeed; we don’t compete with each other.


What do your riders think of your transit system?

I get many compliments saying how courteous my drivers are and that we have excellent customer service.

photo of Ponca Express shuttle bus
photo of Ponca Express van
photo of Ponca Express van

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