METRO Regional Transit Authority

Project Update: Metro RTA’s New Maintenance & Operations Facility ???? Independence Construction is proud to be partnered with G. Stephens Inc. as the CM Team on this new 107,000 SF facility that will improve operations and enhance vehicle maintenance services for the METRO Regional Transit Authority. Recent milestones achieved include completion of the structural steel for the entire building along with detailing and decking in the North office area. Crews are currently focused on precast wall panel placement, site utilities, and the main service bay’s interior CMU shear walls. Upcoming work includes underground plumbing and electrical, as well as exterior framing in the North office area. Thank you to Richard L. Bowen + Associates and The Ruhlin Company for their ongoing collaboration on this project. #AkronMetroRTA #PublicTransit #ConstructionManagement #TeamIC

METRO Regional Transit Authority is excited to announce a promotion in partnership with the Akron RubberDucks during the 2025 season. Anyone who presents a valid RubberDucks ticket to the Operator of any METRO Direct fixed-line route will?ride for free. Free rides will be offered only on the day of the game, listed on the ticket. Promotion begins with the first season home game and ends with the last, April 8, 2025, through September 7, 2025. “METRO RTA is all about keeping Summit County moving and fostering a sense of community,” said Molly Becker, Director of PR and Marketing, “The Akron RubberDucks have been a staple of Akron and plays a key role in the vitality of downtown Akron, and there’s no better way to build pride in our city and get people engaged than making access to these games easier.” “We are excited to partner with METRO RTA to make it easier for our fans to get to RubberDucks games this season,” RubberDucks President and General Manager Jim Pfander said. “METRO RTA is a key part of our community and a great way to travel in Summit County. We can’t wait to see everyone back at Canal Park on April 8.” Riders can show their digital or printed ticket to the Operator and ride for free, no need to scan or swipe. This offer is only valid for METRO Direct and ADA services during daily operating hours on the dates of home games. Home game dates can be found on the Akron RubberDucks website at https://lnkd.in/gDsc8Mz9 To plan your trip, visit our website at www.yourmetrobus.org.

Today METRO's CEO Dawn Distler, Chief of Staff Jarrod Hampshire, and Legal & Government Affairs Officer Gert Wilms met with Congresswoman Emilia Sykes, serving Ohio's 13th District. They appreciated her taking the time to meet prior to her heading off to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Her passion for her district and the people she serves inspires us to drive our community forward in all we do. #METROMovesYou #EmiliaSykes #Congress

Congratulations to Natalie, METRO Operator, for 25 years of safe driving and dedicated service! Thanks Natalie for being you and helping to keep the buses rolling! She was recognized at the February Board of Trustees meeting earlier today, 2/25/25. #METROproud

Exciting Progress on Our New Maintenance and Operations Facility! We’re excited to share that the construction of our new Maintenance and Operations Facility is progressing well. This project has been a true team effort, requiring careful planning, dedication, and hard work from everyone involved. A huge thank you to the construction team who's been working in the cold to ensure we stay on track!

Public transit isn’t just about getting people from place to place, it’s a key driver of economic development. According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), 87% of trips on public transit directly benefit the local economy. #OhioLovesTransit

Did you know that 20% of Ohio’s counties have very limited or no public transit at all? This lack of access to transportation puts many Ohioans at a disadvantage, limiting their ability to reach jobs, education, healthcare, and other essential services. Transportation is a lifeline. We need to invest in transit solutions that serve all communities, ensuring everyone has the ability to thrive. #OhioLovesTransit

A report by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) reveals that 50% of trips on public transit are to and from work. As employers continue to expand and relocate to Ohio, the need for efficient and accessible public transportation becomes even more urgent. Companies are depending on their workforce to be able to get to work, let’s ensure that transit infrastructure supports this growing demand. #OhioLovesTranit

Studies show that public transit riders with at least one chronic condition were able to attend 4 more chronic care appointments on average, helping to prevent a 300% increase in death rates. Public Transit is essential, not just for getting people where they need to go, but also for ensuring access to healthcare and improving overall health outcomes. #OhioLovesTransit #TransitIsEssential

Yesterday, during Ohio Loves Transit Week, METRO’s Chief Executive Officer, Dawn Distler, Chief of Staff, Jarrod Hampshire, and Legal & Government Affairs Officer, Gert Wilms, had the opportunity to meet with Representative Jack Daniels (Ohio House District 32) and Representative Veronica Sims (Ohio House District 33). While in Columbus, CEO Distler delivered testimony in support of public transit to the Ohio Transportation Committee.