Page 2 - Jeff Pullin News Today

COTA will spend another $10.5 million on engineering work for the proposed West Broad Street bus rapid transit line. Construction could begin in 2025.

COTA still doesnt have wi-fi- on buses, riders cant track real-time info, following December IT hack

COTA takes IT systems offline after hack earlier this week, says operations arent affected but riders cant see real-time info on app.

The COTA board adopted a $189.5-million operating budget for 2023, with the goal of hiring more drivers to restore service frequency on routes.

COTA cut service frequency on routes in September as it deals with a driver shortage. It still plans to spend $10 million on headquarters upgrades.

Riders can hear about potential changes, provide feedback and ask questions at public hearings at 6 p.m. Thursday and noon Tuesday.

A shortage of bus drivers is forcing the Central Ohio Transit Authority to make more cuts to its service to its weekend service.

A driver shortage at the Central Ohio Transit Authority will likely lead to route changes this year. While working to increase recruitment efforts, COTA is also seeking to make its income assistance pilot program permanent.

A pilot program beginning in May is intended to encourage more foot traffic, and less automobile traffic, in the Short North neighborhood.

Beginning March 1, a COTA pilot program will reduce fares 50% for low-income riders if they use the digital pay system.