By 1812Blockhouse
On Tuesday, Feb. 17, riders can step aboard any Richland County Transit bus and leave their wallet in their pocket. As part of Ohio Loves Transit Day, all fixed routes and Dial A Ride services will be free for the day, kicking off a week that highlights the essential role public transportation plays in the community.
📌 Why it matters
Public transit is not abstract policy. It is how people get to work 🏢, school 🎓, medical appointments 🏥 and the grocery store 🛒.
Last year, Richland County Transit provided about 125,000 trips in Mansfield and surrounding communities. Statewide, transit agencies deliver more than 59 million rides annually.
🌎 The big picture
Ohio Loves Transit Week runs Feb. 16–20. Agencies across the state are highlighting how buses and paratransit services support economic stability and daily life.
RCT is marking the week with free rides, rider contests and community events.
🔢 By the numbers
- 9 fixed bus routes 🚌
- 1 Dial A Ride ADA paratransit system ♿
- 125,000 trips locally last year
- 59 million+ trips statewide annually
🎉 What’s happening
🆓 Free rides:
All RCT fixed routes and Dial A Ride services are free on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
📸 Selfie station:
Passengers can snap a photo at the Transit Center, 74 S. Diamond St., and tag #OLTRCT on Facebook for a chance at daily prizes.
✍️ Dial A Ride contest:
Riders can enter the “Why I Love Dial A Ride” contest for prize drawings.
🎁 Swag giveaways:
Random giveaways throughout the week.
👵 Senior ride:
At 1:00 PM on Feb. 17, the Area Agency on Aging’s Mobility Manager will host a free ride for seniors departing from the Hawkins Center, 2131 Park Ave. West.
🏛️ Elected officials ride-along:
Local leaders will board buses during the week to see firsthand how the system operates.
⏰ How it works
RCT operates Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, depending on route. Service covers Mansfield and portions of Ontario and Madison Township.
More info: 📞 419-522-4504 or 🌐 rctbuses.com.
✅ Bottom line
For one day, the fare is zero.
The impact, however, is year-round.
