RTA celebrates the importance of public transit during Ohio Loves Transit Week

(DAYTON, OHIO)… The Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is gearing up to celebrate Ohio Loves Transit Week, Feb. 16-20, by giving customers the chance to show their appreciation for public transit.

During Ohio Loves Transit Week, the RTA is encouraging all riders to show their love and support for public transit by filling out a valentine. Those valentines will then be sent to state lawmakers on Ohio Loves Transit Day on Feb. 17. The valentines, along with collection boxes, will be available at all five RTA transit centers: Wright Stop Plaza, Northwest, Westown, Eastown and South starting Monday, Feb. 9. Customers will also have the option to fill out an electronic valentine online at www.iriderta.org/OhioLovesTransit .

Last year, the RTA completed nearly 6 million rides, connecting more than 20 communities - proving public transportation is an essential lifeline for the community by providing access to jobs, medical appointments, education and more.

More than 50 percent of riders say they use RTA services to get to work. This shows how RTA continues to meet the daily mobility needs of Dayton's booming economic sector by partnering with communities and businesses to connect in-demand workers to jobs. Public transit is a critical part of connecting employers and individuals without access to their own vehicles.

Transit drives Ohio's economy, with statistics showing every $1 invested in public transit generates $4 in economic return. Whether it is getting to area shopping centers, local airports, libraries, parks, bike trails or countless other destinations, Ohio transit can get you there.

To learn more about Ohio Loves Transit, visit Ohioneedstransit.org .

MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Everman (937) 425-8374, Communications Manager