Bus service is available in all of Ohio's major cities as well as in many of the smaller towns and rural areas. In the cities of Columbus, Akron, Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo and Cleveland, bus service is run by the area Regional Transit Agency. These services each board more than 2 million passengers a year. In towns like Greenville, Sandusky and Logan, public transportation is run by localized Transit Systems. In addition, many localities offer a specialized bus service for elderly or disabled residents. Statewide bus service is provided by Greyhound and Lakefront Trailways.
In addition to bus service, residents of Cleveland also have the option of commuting by train. The city offers a public rail service to locations in and around the metro area, operated by the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority. As of 2011, both Cincinnati and Columbus are in the process of a rail development program. Cincinnati, in addition to local service, is working on a railway loop that will connect the city with Covington and Newport in Kentucky. Along with these city rail services, those traveling across the state or to other parts of the United States can use Amtrak rail service.
Because Ohio is part of the Great Lakes region, transport by ferry is not only popular but a necessity in some locations. In Cincinnati, the Anderson Ferry provides drivers with access to the Cincinnati Airport. While it is possible to reach the airport by road, crossing the river by ferry cuts the trip by 10 miles. On Lake Erie, ferries provide access to various islands, either with a vehicle or simply as a boat passenger. On the Ohio River, the August Ferry provides a crossing for drivers from Ohio to Kentucky, and back again.
When planning to take public transportation, it is important to have up-to-date information. Fares and schedules change frequently, so it is a good idea to contact the Transit Authority for the latest route information. Public transportation is required by federal law to be accessible to those with disabilities, including wheelchairs. Many public buses are also now accommodating bicycles, fitted with special holding racks for the ride. In addition, public transportation of recent years has been working toward maximizing energy efficiency and reducing emissions output. With gas prices soaring and growing concern over the environment, increasing numbers of travelers are choosing to take public transportation over a private vehicle.
