Columbus Advances Transit With LinkUS Funding
Seven Ohio cities increase transit fares in 2025-2026, with new programs to offset costs
Ohio Cities Raise Transit Fares in 2025-2026
Riders across Ohio will pay more for public transit as seven major cities implement fare increases in 2025-2026, transit officials said. The changes affect local bus service, express routes, and paratransit in Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Toledo, Akron, and Canton. Officials said the modifications aim to balance system sustainability with rider affordability, though they didn't specify how many riders will be affected statewide.
Fare Increases Vary by City
Cincinnati is raising local fares from $2.00 to $2.20 and express routes to $3.00, while Dayton is implementing similar increases for adult fares from $2.00 to $2.20. Dayton's also raising paratransit services from $3.50 to $4.00. Akron is implementing a 3% fare increase across its system. Toledo is transitioning from pandemic-era free service back to paid fares, though officials haven't specified the exact fare amounts. The increases reflect rising operational costs and infrastructure needs, transit officials said.
New Programs Aim to Ease Impact
Cities are introducing programs to help riders manage higher costs. Cincinnati's launching a Tap&Save fare-capping program and free rides for children under 55 inches. Cleveland is simplifying its fare structure by eliminating surcharges and offering a 4-Day Pass for $20.00 with unlimited access to HealthLine and Rapid rail systems. Canton is launching a Fare Matching Program with a $30,000 budget to assist low-income residents. Toledo is adding digital payment systems and fare-capping for low-income commuters, officials said.
Infrastructure Projects Drive Changes
Columbus is implementing a 0.5% sales tax increase to fund the LinkUS project, which will expand Bus Rapid Transit corridors across the city. Canton is moving to a fully digital SCORE card system in 2026. Akron is offering seasonal Free Fare periods, particularly during December 2025. Officials said the timeline for implementing all changes spans 2025-2026, though specific dates for each city's modifications weren't available by publication time.
Riders Face Mixed Impact
The fare changes will affect daily commuters, tourists, and low-income riders differently across Ohio's transit systems. Officials said the new digital payment options and fare-capping programs should help frequent riders manage costs, though the overall impact on ridership remains unclear. Moovit provides real-time fare information and trip planning for all Ohio transit systems as cities implement these changes.
