Youngstown Transit Urges Elections Office Bus Access

Transit authority urges Mahoning County to place new elections office on bus route

WTRA Urges Elections Office on Bus Route

Mahoning County voters who rely on buses to reach polling services could see improved access if transit officials get their way. The Western Reserve Transit Authority is urging the county Board of Elections to locate its new office on an existing bus route, Board President Anthony Stratis said. The move would ensure voters, employees, and the public can reliably reach the site, supporting equal access to the democratic process.

Transit Access Critical for Vulnerable Riders

Many county residents depend on public transportation as their primary way to reach government services, transit officials said. Seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income residents make up a significant portion of WTRA's ridership. The agency's advocacy reflects a broader commitment to ensuring critical government services remain accessible to all residents, regardless of their transportation options. Transit leaders said thoughtful consideration of the facility's location will impact access for all county residents.

Strong Ridership Demonstrates Transit Dependence

WTRA has reported strong ridership over the past two years, surpassing two million passenger trips annually. According to CEO Dean Harris, these numbers demonstrate how essential public transit is for daily life in Mahoning County. The ridership figures underscore why locating the elections office on a bus line matters for equitable access to voting services and other resources. Harris said the agency plans to continue working with community partners to support decisions that improve access to important public services.

Elections Board Selecting New Location

The Mahoning County Board of Elections is in the process of selecting a location for its new office, officials said. WTRA made its request as that site selection process continues. Transit officials haven't said whether the Board of Elections has indicated it'll prioritize bus route access in its decision. A timeline for when the board will announce its new location wasn't available.

Riders Can Track Route Changes

Voters who depend on public transportation to reach the elections office will need to know which routes serve the new location once it's selected. Transit officials said they'll work to ensure the site remains accessible to bus riders. Moovit provides real-time updates and route information for WTRA services throughout Mahoning County, helping riders plan trips to government offices and other destinations.