The new service will include five “bus rapid transit” systems spanning areas such as West Broad Street, East Main Street and the Northwest Corridor.
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ryan Steward says showing up to work on time can make or break a job.
“You have to get here at least 15 minutes early because it’s late on time,” says an account coordinator at the Fortuity call center in West Columbus. But she takes a 90-minute bus ride each way from the far east side of Columbus to work.
“Having reliable transportation is what supports my livelihood,” says this single parent.
“It keeps a roof over my head and food on the table. And as we all know, kids cost money,” Stewart added.
People like Stewart argue that Issue 47 would shorten commute times because COTA would generate $8 billion in new revenue over the next 25 years if it built the five proposed bus rapid transit lines. says it will be helpful.
Duane Donaldson, assistant professor of finance at Columbus State Community College, said if Greater Columbus’ population grows to the 3.1 million people city leaders estimate, that amount would be $101.59 per person per year.
“To put it in perspective, this is the equivalent of 1.5 to 2 tanks of gas per year,” Donaldson explains. “That would be a per-person budget. That could mean 20% of your new car payment in a month, or 30% of your used car payment in a year.”
The proposed 0.5% sales tax increase would bring Franklin County’s tax rate to 8%, making it the highest sales tax in Cuyahoga County and the state. Donaldson said the amount is on par with other growing cities with similar transportation challenges, including Denver, St. Louis, Cleveland and Cincinnati.
An illustration of COTA’s plan to expand public transit, sidewalk and bikeway access
“There are many jobs in this town that cannot be accessed consistently and reliably through public transportation,” says Fred Brothers, president and CEO of Fortuity Call Center.
Brothers said he specifically chose West Broad Street as a location because of its ease of access to potential labor.
“We joke that we spent $12 million on this building because the buses stop right in front of it, but it’s true,” the brothers said. “The biggest problem in this industry is turnover.”
“What we found is that if we find jobs where people live and make commuting accessible and streamlined, 400,000 people could reach us on one bus ride. Magic for commuting.”
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