ODOT To Launch Major GoBus Expansion With Four New Ohio Intercity Routes

COLUMBUS, OHIO — The Ohio Department of Transportation and Hocking Athens Perry Community Action are preparing for a significant expansion of the state's intercity transit network. Starting March 2, 2026, the GoBus service will double its current footprint by adding four new routes and 26 additional stop locations across Ohio and into Pennsylvania. It is a move that targets residents who have been cut off from major urban centers due to a lack of reliable transportation. This growth is focused on bridging the gap for rural and underserved communities that often struggle with limited mobility. By connecting these areas to employment hubs and major regional centers, the service aims to make regional travel more accessible for those without private vehicles. According to Ohio Department of Transportation records, the project relies on funding from the federal Intercity Bus Program, which is designed to link non-urbanized areas to the broader national bus network. Travelers in northeast Ohio will see direct benefits from the new routes connecting Cleveland to Toledo, Columbus and Pittsburgh. These lines are designed to feed into the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority system, allowing passengers to move from intercity coaches directly onto local buses or the Red Line rail service. A primary goal for the Cleveland routes is to provide a reliable, low-cost link to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, which remains a critical travel point for the entire region. The GoBus fleet consists of modern, wheelchair-accessible motor coaches equipped with amenities for long-distance travel. Rendell Stiles, representing the program, noted that maintaining low costs is a priority for the partnership. Fares for the new routes are expected to stay between $5 and $40, depending on the distance. This pricing structure ensures the service remains a viable option for students, seniors and daily commuters who need to reach jobs or medical appointments in the city. The expanded map includes several new stops in smaller municipalities that have not seen scheduled intercity service in years. These stops are strategically placed to ensure that even the most remote residents are within a reasonable distance of a transit point. Tickets for the new routes will be integrated into the existing GoBus online booking system 30 days before the March launch date. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.