Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA)

This holiday season, we can hardly contain our excitement for the future of transit in Central Ohio. Thank you to all who supported the LinkUS initiative and celebrated COTA’s 50th anniversary with us this year. May your days be merry; the future is bright!

Congratulations to 13 vehicle maintenance technicians who completed the ATP training program and advanced their expertise. These Team COTA members mastered everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics, ensuring safer, more reliable vehicles for everyone. A special congratulations to the five women who are the first to advance to technician status in the current ATP program: Judie Beasley, Juanita Cain, Tontisha Danflous, Drew Toy and Jazzmeria Whiting-Barnes. Your dedication is paving the way for new opportunities and moving every life forward! #TeamCOTA #TechExcellence #WomenInTech 🎉Celebrate Our Graduates! 🎓 Chester Allison Kyle Barker Judie Beasley Juanita Cain Bian Carter Justin Caruso Christian Clark Tontisha Danflous Brian Jacobsen Garrett Law Kobe Pendleton Drew Toy Jazzmeria Whiting-Barnes

Picture this ✨ You’re riding a COTA bus in the 1970s on a hot, humid day. You roll through downtown and stop at the corner of Long and High, where former Assistant Superintendent Harold Milliman holds up a red dot. 🔴 Then, you feel that cool breeze 💨 Fast forward to today, and onboard air conditioning is just one of the many advancements COTA has made in 50 years. As we wrap up our 50th anniversary, we celebrate how far we've come in bringing comfort and innovation to Columbus, and we’re eager to continue the ride ahead. Cheers to 50 years of moving every life forward — and to Harold, for making those rides cool! 🚌 #50YearsofCOTA WOSU Public Media Columbus Metropolitan Library

Our latest graduating class of Operators had the pleasure of hearing from Columbus City Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla this Wednesday. As an advocate of public transportation, Councilmember Barroso de Padilla continues to support our mission to move every life forward and shared with our newest Operators the importance of their role in keeping our city moving. Join us in congratulating December’s classes! ⬇️

Congratulations to Licking County Transit Executive Director Matt Allison on being honored with the Ohio Public Transit Association 2024 Leonard Ronis Award! This prestigious award recognizes outstanding transit professionals for their significant contributions to public transit. Matt’s career in public transit began in 1989 at COTA, where he started as a farebox collector and coach cleaner. Throughout his 35-year tenure at COTA, Matt demonstrated exceptional leadership, quickly rising to the role of chief of transit operations. Today, as executive director of Licking County Transit, Matt continues to shape the future of Central Ohio’s transit system. Under his guidance, Licking County Transit has experienced remarkable growth in ridership and introduced innovative services that expand transportation options and improve accessibility in the community. Congratulations, Matt! We are incredibly proud to have been a part of your journey and look forward to seeing the continued impact you will make on Ohio public transit. #Leadership #Impact #PublicTransit

With the passing of Issue 47, the future of transit in Central Ohio is looking brighter than ever. From 45% more COTA service to improved bus stations and launching BRT, we’re ready to make your journey easier and faster. Let’s get to work! 🚍✨

What's next for LinkUS Columbus? We're moving full speed ahead to modernize our transit system and expand service across Central Ohio. Check out what’s coming in 2025 and beyond! Read more about our plans: https://lnkd.in/grumYwyU

Since 1974, we’ve proudly connected Central Ohio through innovation, exceptional service and a steadfast commitment to our community. Receiving Ohio Public Transit Association Milestone Award for 50 years of excellence in public transit is a true honor. This recognition reflects not just the growth and success of our transit system, but the trust and support of the thousands of individuals who rely on us every day. As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead with excitement to the next 50 years. We remain committed to providing safe, reliable transportation that meets the evolving needs of our customers. Thank you for being part of our journey. We are excited to continue moving every life forward — together. 🚍💙

Congratulations to Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Raymond Weaver on receiving Ohio Public Transit Association 2024 Under Forty Rising Star award! This prestigious honor recognizes transit professionals under 40 who excel in their field and demonstrate strong community leadership. His colleagues at COTA shared, “Raymond's passion for fostering an inclusive environment is reflected within the walls of COTA and extends to the broader Columbus community. Raymond is inspired by the humanity in his work, and it is evident in his interactions with colleagues and community members alike. His dedication to EDI is not just professional, but also a reflection of his deeply personal commitment to fostering inclusivity and belonging.” Congratulations, Raymond! Thank you for driving change at Team COTA and for helping to move every life forward in Central Ohio. #Leadership #DiversityAndInclusion #PublicTransit

Taking Buckeyes for a Ride With the Buckeyes bringing the energy this season 🏈, we’re reminiscing about the start of our partnership with The Ohio State University. In 1997, we introduced the GO BUS!, which allowed OSU students to show their student IDs and ride COTA hassle-free. Today, students still enjoy access to COTA services with their BuckIDs, thanks to the Educational Pass Program. #50YearsofCOTA