Athens Transit Eyes Saturday Service Return by 2027

Athens, Ohio proposes income tax increase to restore Saturday bus service by 2027

Athens Transit Eyes Saturday Service Return by 2027

Athens, Ohio residents who rely on public transit could see Saturday bus service return in 2027 if voters approve a proposed income tax increase, Mayor Patterson announced. HAPCAP Transportation/Athens Public Transit frequently receives requests about when Saturday service will resume, with the system providing 343,264 rides last year. The additional funding of approximately $200,000 from the City of Athens would enable the restoration of Saturday service, which was previously canceled due to insufficient financial support.

Service Gap Affects Jobs and Daily Needs

Saturday is a crucial day for many community members who need to shop, work, or travel around town, according to transit officials. Ben Ziff, HAPCAP Mobility Coordinator, said he witnesses daily how the lack of Saturday service affects residents who lose job opportunities or face isolation. The transit system previously operated six days weekly before budget constraints forced the elimination of Saturday routes. Officials said the service gap particularly impacts residents without access to personal vehicles who depend on public transportation for essential weekend activities.

Tax Increase Would Fund Six-Day Operation

The proposed income tax increase would generate the $200,000 annually needed to restore Saturday bus service, officials said. The funding would allow the transit system to provide accessible, safe, affordable, and reliable transportation to all community members six days a week. Ziff supports the levy despite the small decrease to household income, emphasizing that transportation access benefits the entire community. Officials haven't released specific details about the tax rate increase or when the measure will appear on the ballot.

Implementation Planned for 2027

If voters approve the income tax increase, Saturday bus service could return in 2027, Mayor Patterson said. Officials haven't provided a specific timeline for when the ballot measure will be presented to voters or how long implementation would take after approval. The transit agency said it would release additional details about service schedules and routes closer to the potential launch date.

Riders Await Ballot Decision

Community members who depend on public transportation will need to wait for the ballot measure before Saturday service can be restored. Officials said the tax increase represents an investment in transportation access that would benefit workers, shoppers, and residents who face isolation without weekend transit options. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for Athens Public Transit routes currently operating Monday through Friday.