WRTA, Regional Chamber conducting survey for new routes, service expansion

The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber and Western Reserve Transit Authority are coming together to survey riders and businesses in Mahoning and Trumbull counties.
The group says access to transportation is at the top of the list for businesses and those seeking employment.
According to the release, private investment in the Valley is happening further out in counties, causing an ongoing need to expand public transportation services.
WRTA and the Regional Chamber hope to get input from businesses and the community for consideration into new routes, service expansion and strategies for seeking grant funding.
“Almost 50 percent of our riders are going to work or from work,” said WRTA’s Executive Director Dean Harris. “We see the need every day. But it’s important to gather the data with research like this so everyone can see it."
WRTA has run limited service in Trumbull County since March 2020 and rider numbers continue to grow there.
Commissioner Mauro Cantalamessa said, "The Trumbull County Commissioners support this process and encourage all residents and businesses to participate in the public transportation survey. The results will be an important part of our decision-making process."
Both business and rider surveys can be found here.