Milestones of Progress: Over 50 Years of Moving the Valley
An economic and environmental engine isn’t built overnight. It is the result of continuous evolution, strategic investments, and a long-standing commitment to the people of the Mahoning Valley. Since its establishment in 1971, WRTA has spent more than five decades expanding access, breaking down barriers, and modernizing how our community moves.
Our history is defined by intentional progress. Here is a look at the major milestones that have shaped WRTA into the award-winning, forward-thinking transit authority it is today.
Agency Founded
1971
The Western Reserve Transit Authority is officially established, creating a unified public transportation system to serve the evolving needs of the Mahoning Valley.
Expanding Regional Access
2008
Recognizing that economic opportunities don’t stop at city borders, Mahoning County voters approve a sales tax that allows WRTA to expand fixed-route and county-wide door-to-door services, dramatically widening the workforce footprint.
Launching the Small Business Awards
2021
WRTA launches its annual Small Business Awards and the Give Small Biz a Lift campaign. Over the next five years, this initiative spotlights and supports more than 200 local small businesses and non-profits, cementing WRTA’s role as a direct partner in local commerce.
Transition to Zero-Fare Model
2022
To maximize workforce mobility and ease financial burdens for residents, WRTA shifts to a zero-fare model. The initiative removes financial barriers to employment, medical care, and education, keeping an estimated $750 annually in the pockets of regular riders.
Securing the Future of Clean Transit
2025
WRTA secures a competitive $6 million federal grant to overhaul its infrastructure. This funding lays the groundwork for autonomous shuttle testing and the massive transition to a 100% solar-powered electric bus fleet.
EV-Friendly & Community Rebrand
2026
WRTA officially achieves the EMPOWER Certification as an EV-Friendly Workplace. The agency rolls out a comprehensive rebranding—debuting a modernized logo and the “Going Your Way” tagline—alongside the launch of WRTAbest.com (The Best of the Valley Guide) to further champion local businesses.
Over 800 Stops and Growing
Today, WRTA manages more than 800 bus stops across the region, turning over 2 million unlinked passenger trips a year into tangible economic growth. Every milestone we reach is designed to make the Mahoning Valley more connected, more sustainable, and more prosperous. We aren’t just looking back at how far we’ve come—we are using this momentum to drive straight into the future.
