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COTA launches late-night service, delivering more options for a growing region

Central Ohio is stepping into a new era of growth, energy and possibility. With more businesses bringing employees back to the office and our region welcoming more residents each day, our transit system must evolve to not just keep pace but to lead the way. At the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), we believe public transit is more than a service. It's the infrastructure of opportunity. It connects people to jobs, supports thriving local economies and reduces the barriers that keep communities apart. That's why, this May, COTA is launching a wave of improvements designed to make our system more accessible, reliable and customer friendly. And we're inviting you — whether you're a long-time transit advocate or just rethinking your commute — to see what's new. Welcome back to work and back to better transit As downtown office buildings fill back up, so do highways and parking lots. The return to in-person work is changing how we move through our cities. For many Central Ohioans, that means reconsidering how they commute — and what their time is worth. We want you to know: COTA has changed, too. Since the start of the pandemic, we've invested in modern vehicles, built better infrastructure and launched new ways to plan trips and pay fares. Whether you're using the Transit app or a COTA Smartcard, getting on board has never been easier. We've also expanded programs like travel training to help companies and individuals navigate our system with confidence. And we've strengthened our team of expert Operators and mechanics, delivering the level of service this community deserves. expand On May 5, COTA officially launched midnight lineups, extending service hours for second- and third-shift workers. Because everyone deserves reliable access to opportunity, no matter the hour. What's new in May We're also extending Line 34 from Easton Transit Center to Meijer on Hamilton Road, expanding weekend service and nearing design completion of the first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line as part of the LinkUS initiative — our region's bold vision for connected, future-ready mobility. expand Summer service spotlight: Zoo Bus returns Just in time for summer, we're bringing back the beloved Zoo Bus: a $9 experience that includes a $4 round-trip ride on COTA and $5 admission to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. It's a simple way to connect families to one of the region's best attractions, affordably and sustainably. And when the temperatures heat up this summer, your Zoo Bus ride gets you $10 off a visit to Zoombezi Bay. The road ahead We're proud of how far we've come, and we're even more excited for what's next. Together with local leaders, employers and our customers, we're building a more connected Central Ohio. If you haven't ridden with us in a while, now's the time. Whether you're returning to work, exploring the city or supporting your team's commute, COTA is here to make every trip easier, faster and better. Let's move forward — together. Want to hear what's next for COTA — straight from the source? A Minute With Monica is a new video series featuring COTA President/CEO Monica Téllez-Fowler sharing quick, candid updates on the future of mobility in Central Ohio. From service improvements to major milestones, she is giving customers and community leaders a front-row seat to COTA's transformation. Follow COTA on social media to catch each new episode and stay informed on the changes coming to your streets, your commute and your region.