News Summary
The Ohio Department of Transportation and Hocking-Athens-Perry Community Action Program announce a major expansion of the GoBus intercity transit network. This expansion adds four new bus routes, connecting underserved regions of Ohio, including Bowling Green and Yellow Springs. Designed to enhance mobility in rural areas, GoBus offers amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets, aiming to connect residents to essential services and job opportunities. With a projected increase in ridership, the expansion reflects Ohio’s commitment to providing accessible transportation.
Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Hocking-Athens-Perry Community Action Program have announced a significant expansion of Ohio’s GoBus intercity transit network, designed to improve mobility in rural areas and enhance statewide connectivity. The expansion includes funding for four new intercity bus routes, with service reaching previously unserved regions of the state.
This new development is expected to connect thousands more Ohioans to essential services, higher education, and job opportunities. With this expansion, the GoBus service area will double, extending its reach into regions in Western and Northern Ohio. New locations that will benefit from the GoBus service include Bowling Green, Fremont, Marion, Middletown, Oxford, Upper Sandusky, and Yellow Springs.
The GoBus operates 56-passenger motor coaches that are equipped with amenities designed to enhance the travel experience. Passengers will have access to free wireless internet, power outlets at every seat, extra legroom, an onboard restroom, and seat belts for added safety. This service was created to connect rural and underserved areas with metropolitan centers that provide essential services and travel options.
The expansion is funded through the federal Intercity Bus Program and will be administered by ODOT in collaboration with HAPCAP. The new northern Ohio route will feature stops in several cities, including Cleveland, Ashtabula, Elyria, Norwalk, Sandusky, Port Clinton, Fremont, and Toledo. Current GoBus services available from Cleveland include routes to Akron, Columbus, and Marietta.
Since its inception in 2010, the statewide GoBus program has grown substantially, now serving 36 cities and connecting 47 counties across Ohio. The number of annual riders has seen a remarkable increase from 10,000 in its first year to over 129,000 projected for 2024. More than 50% of current GoBus riders are college students, highlighting the importance of this service for the younger population seeking access to educational opportunities.
Ticket prices for GoBus services start at $5, with prices varying based on distance. For example, a trip from Cleveland next week is priced at $35. The bus stop in Cleveland is conveniently located at the downtown Greyhound station, while some other cities feature multiple stations to accommodate travelers.
This expansion underscores the commitment to ensure that “transportation should never be a barrier to opportunity,” as emphasized by state officials. Enhancing mobility options for rural communities is a significant step toward improving access to essential services and opportunities for residents in those areas.
The program will continue to be overseen by the Hocking-Athens-Perry Community Action Program, with private bus providers contracted for service delivery. With this new initiative, Ohio aims to create a more connected and accessible transportation network that serves the diverse needs of its rural population.
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Additional Resources
- Cleveland.com: GoBus Expansion
- Wikipedia: Intercity Bus Service
- Cleveland 19: Major GoBus Expansion
- Google Search: Ohio GoBus expansion
- Richland Source: GoBus Connections
- Google Scholar: Intercity Bus Services Ohio
- Cleveland.com: RTA Board Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Transport in Ohio
- Athens News: Inter-City Bus Program
- Google News: Ohio Bus Service
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