By 1808Delaware
The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) has experienced a significant surge in ridership across all transit lines in the first half of 2023. The numbers reveal an increase of almost 600,000 additional trips compared to the same period in 2022. The fixed route service alone has seen a 12% increase, with a total of 5,215,869 passenger trips delivered.
Specialized services have also seen growth, with COTA Mainstream trips for ADA customers and senior citizens rising by almost 16%, and COTA//Plus on-demand trips increasing by a staggering 52%. COTA President/CEO Joanna M. Pinkerton expressed excitement over more customers choosing COTA, emphasizing the importance of public transit in building a safer, more equitable, and cleaner future.
COTA’s growth comes at a time when the organization is planning a significant restoration of services in September. The recruitment of bus operators has begun to alleviate the workforce shortage crisis that has been a concern in recent times. New recruits are being welcomed with up to $2,500 in hiring bonuses, competitive wages, and benefits, including on-site CDL training. The efforts to recruit new transit operators have led to a gradual increase in the workforce, setting the stage for several service improvements.
Starting September 4, COTA will implement several service enhancements, including ones on buses serving southern Delaware County. Those changes include:
- An additional hour of frequent late-night service on weekdays.
- Increased weekday service frequency on Lines 1, 2, 10, and CMAX.
- Enhanced weekly service frequency on Line 8.
- Adjusted weekday service frequency on Lines 4, 31, and 102.
- Extended operation of the Zoo Bus into the fall.
- Restoration of Line 35, which had been suspended since the pandemic.
These improvements aim to provide more convenient and accessible transit options for the community. Customers can learn more about these enhancements during two public information meetings scheduled for August 17 and 22.
Learn more about COTA’s career opportunities and upcoming service improvements here.
Source: COTA
