Central Ohio Transit Authority Short Range Transit Plan 2027-2031
This Short Range Transit Plan for the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) serves as a five-year implementation-focused roadmap for the 2027-2031 period, prioritizing service investments based on rider demand, operational feasibility, and financial resources. The plan outlines coordinated service changes, including network redesign, frequency improvements, and new service types, aligned with the LinkUs initiative. Key strategic pillars include delivering on LinkUs promises (preparing for Bus Rapid Transit, expanding frequent service, introducing late-night service, improving weekend/off-peak service, and expanding COTA//Plus), focusing on operational performance through shorter routes, and updating the network to meet demand by monitoring and discontinuing underperforming services. The intended outcomes are a 27-30% increase in service, enhanced access for transit-critical populations, improved frequency across all days, expanded operating hours, direct airport access, and better first- and last-mile connections.