Lucas County proclaims 'Ohio Loves Transit Week'; transit CEO touts ridership gains and service investments

Lucas County commissioners voted to proclaim Feb. 16–20 as Ohio Loves Transit Week and to mark the regional transit agency’s 55th anniversary during their Feb. 3 meeting. Laura Koprowski, identified in the meeting as the transit CEO, reported ridership growth of more than 10% in 2025 and a set of service improvements designed to boost access.

Koprowski said the agency invested $500,000 in its fixed-route system, launched a new Route 18 connecting downtown to Alexis Road, and increased peak-hour frequency on four routes (3, 10, 31 and 20). She also announced free‑fare promotion days in February and an outreach trip to the Statehouse on Feb. 17 to advocate for continued state funding.

Commissioners praised the shift in funding that allowed expanded service, recalling a move from property-tax support to a sales-tax model four years ago that, officials said, enabled more stable funding and service growth. The board approved the proclamation by unanimous roll call and invited transit trustees and staff to receive the county’s proclamation and participate in a photo opportunity.

The presentation emphasized service access for people who rely on transit — including students and riders who do not own cars — and noted ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and event service (county fair, special events). No immediate funding changes were made at the meeting; commissioners encouraged public use of transit and outreach to recruit new riders.