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    COTA Looks to Transit App to Ease Transition to New Bus Network

    With less than two weeks before the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) rolls out its redesigned bus network, the agency is working to make sure the transition to the new system goes as smoothly as possible.

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    Riders can now use the Transit App to map out exactly about how their commute will change on May 1st. The feature, which went live Tuesday afternoon, allows users to toggle between the existing system and the future one — comparing schedules, routes, and the location of new bus stops.

    “We’re the biggest public transit app in Columbus, and we know many locals are wondering, ‘How do I get to work on May 1st?’” said Jake Sion, Chief Operating Officer of Transit. “Now they can find out in a single tap.”

    Sion said that over 30,000 people in Columbus downloaded the Transit App last year, with over 10,000 monthly users. The app allows users to plan trips and see the location of buses in real time.

    “We’re excited to launch our new network, which will be easier to understand and navigate, and will serve an unmet demand for frequent COTA service seven days a week,” said Curtis Stitt, COTA President/CEO, in a statement. “We’re also pleased that our ongoing partnership with Transit will help make the transition for our customers as convenient and smooth as possible.”

    “We think this marketing collaboration can become part of the playbook for other transit agencies looking to overhaul their bus network,” added Sion. “Strong rider education is at the core of a successful rollout.”

    COTA also recently announced plans to offer free rides for the first week of the new system.

    [Related: COTA Prepares for Rollout of Redesigned Bus Network]

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    Brent Warren
    Brent Warrenhttps://columbusunderground.com/author/brent-warren
    Brent Warren is a staff reporter for Columbus Underground covering urban development, transportation, city planning, neighborhoods, and other related topics. He grew up in Grandview Heights, lives in the University District and studied City and Regional Planning at OSU.
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