Metro News

Cincinnati Metro joins transit agencies statewide to celebrate transit as essential infrastructure, a smart investment, and a service riders rely on every day

In celebration of Ohio Loves Transit Week, February 16–20, Cincinnati Metro will join the Ohio Public Transit Association (OPTA) and transit agencies across the state to highlight the essential role public transportation plays in the lives of Ohioans.

Throughout the week, Metro and transit systems statewide will celebrate transit as essential infrastructure that connects people to jobs, education, and opportunity, a smart public investment that strengthens local economies, and a service real people love and rely on every day.

Across the Cincinnati region and throughout Ohio, access to reliable public transportation plays a vital role in economic growth, workforce access, and community connection. This impact is reflected both in strong returns on investment, with every $1 invested in public transit generating approximately $4 in economic return, and in growing ridership locally. Over the past three years, nearly 30 percent of Metro riders were first-time users, driven by continued service improvements and expanded access.

“Public transit touches nearly every part of daily life, whether it is getting to work, school, healthcare, or simply staying connected to the community,” said Brandy Jones, Metro’s Chief Communications and Marketing Officer. “Ohio Loves Transit Week is about recognizing transit as a smart investment in people and places, and celebrating the riders who depend on Metro every day.”

To thank our riders and invite new customers to give Metro a try, we’re celebrating Ohio Loves Transit Day on Tuesday, February 17, by handing out a limited number of free ride passes. Stop by Government Square from 7 to 8 a.m. or the Northside Transit Center from 4 to 5 p.m. to grab yours while supplies last.

Riders and community members are encouraged to share how public transit supports their daily lives throughout the week using the hashtag #OhioLovesTransit.