WRTA Launches New Rider-Focused Website
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA), the Mahoning Valley’s public transit system for more than 50 years, launched its completely redesigned website.
The website’s new rider-focused platform makes it easier than ever for residents to plan trips, track buses in real time, and discover how free rides support both individual riders and the broader Valley economy.
“Our new website and ‘Going Your Way’ theme are reflections of our commitment to the Valley and its future,” said Dean Harris, RTA Chief Executive Officer. “By removing barriers to transportation and investing heavily in workforce mobility, we are ensuring that our residents have reliable, modern access to jobs, healthcare, and local businesses.”
The new website highlights rider information first. Key features include:
• Direct connection to live bus tracking
• An online trip planner
• Clear route information and popular destinations
• The latest WRTA news and future plans
• Spotlights on the Best of the Valley nonprofits and small businesses
“Our new website and ‘Going Your Way’ theme are reflections of our commitment to the Valley and its future,” — Dean Harris, CEO
WRTA provides more than 2 million rides annually—over 7,000 each day—across fixed routes, paratransit, and community services. Riding remains completely free under the Zero Fare policy first introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic and retained ever since.
For a daily rider, that policy puts nearly $750 back in their pocket each year. Combined with avoided car payments, insurance, and maintenance costs, free transit generates an estimated $10 million in annual consumer savings that stays in the local economy and supports Valley businesses.
“WRTA’s mission has always been about connecting people to opportunity,” said Dean Harris, WRTA Chief Executive Officer. “Whether it’s getting someone to a job interview, a medical appointment, or a local business, we are focused on strengthening the Valley. We aren’t just moving people; we are driving the local economy forward.”
WRTA continues to invest heavily in the region’s future. The agency is transitioning its diesel and gasoline fleet to all-electric vehicles within the next few years, is testing autonomous vehicle technology, and is constructing new offices, a bus garage and a solar canopy. The design for new transit center is in the works also.
About Western Reserve Transit Authority
WRTA has served the Mahoning Valley for more than 50 years, providing safe, reliable, and completely free public transportation. With more than 2 million rides annually, WRTA connects residents to jobs, education, healthcare, and community destinations while investing in modern facilities, an all-electric fleet, and innovative mobility solutions.
July Board Meeting Cancelled
Please be advised that the July Board of Trustees Meeting set for Thursday, July 30 at 9:00 a.m. has been cancelled.
WRTA Invites the Valley to ‘Dump the Pump’ on June 18
Save Money, Support the Local Economy and a Cleaner Environment
The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) is joining hundreds of public transportation systems nationwide to celebrate the 21st annual National Dump the Pump Day this Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Sponsored nationally by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), the day emphasizes that choosing public transit over driving is a powerful, convenient way to save money, protect the environment, and fuel local economic growth.
First established in 2006, National Dump the Pump Day challenges drivers to leave their cars at home for at least one day and experience the benefits of public transit.
According to recent APTA data, individual households can save an average of over $10,000 annually by switching their daily commute to public transportation and downsizing by just one vehicle. Beyond significant financial savings, public transit produces roughly 50% fewer carbon emissions per passenger mile than private vehicles, creating a cleaner, healthier community.
A Message from WRTA Leadership:
“National Dump the Pump Day is the perfect opportunity for people who don’t normally ride the bus to discover how easy, safe, and cost-effective it is to leave the driving to us,” said Dean Harris, CEO of WRTA. “Reaching over 2 million rides a year shows the Valley increasingly trusts WRTA to get them where they need to go. Every trip represents money saved at the gas pump, fewer cars on our roads, and a direct reinvestment into the economic vitality of the Mahoning Valley.”
Public Transit = Economic Growth
In addition to expanding mobility, WRTA continues to serve as an economic cornerstone for the region. National transit data demonstrates that every $1 invested in public transportation infrastructure generates $4 to $5 in economic returns, boosting local business accessibility, stabilizing property values, and supporting public sector commerce.
How the Public Can Participate
WRTA encourages all Mahoning Valley residents to take part in Dump the Pump Day on Thursday, June 18, by doing the following:
- Rethink Your Commute: Swap at least one routine car trip on Thursday—whether it’s your drive to work, a run to the grocery store, or meeting friends—for a ride on a WRTA fixed route or countywide service.
- Plan Your Trip Easily: Residents can find the route on WRTAonline.com or download the MyStop Mobile app to find and track the best bus and route for you.
- Share Your Ride: Show your support for sustainable travel by sharing photos of your transit commute on social media using the hashtags #DumpThePump and #WRTA.
To learn more about WRTA routes, schedules, and how to plan your trip for National Dump the Pump Day, click here.
Sky Roofing is WRTA 2026 Small Business Of The Year
Sky Roofing Celebrating 25 Years in Business Wins Additional Honor at WRTA Small Business Awards.
Youngstown —Matt Estephan came to this country the late 1980s and went to work for a local roofing company. Twenty-five years ago, he decided one his own business. Now, he represents what many characterize as “The American Dream.” After emigrating from Lebanon, Matt learned a new language, became an American citizen, and perfected his trade. Together with his wife, Jean, he built a company and a future.
Celebrating their 25th year in business, Sky Roofing is a locally owned, family run company that has grown from a single Youngstown office to providing roofing services across the state of Ohio. Headquartered in Canfield, Sky Roofing offers a wide array of external home solutions.
As the 2026 WRTA Small Business of the Year, Sky Roofing receives a custom TV advertising campaign from Spectrum Reach, a social media marketing campaign from Farris Marketing/StrategiX Social and a business booster check for $1,000 from Platt Insurance/Auto Owners Insurance.
“ Small businesses aren’t just part of the economy — they ARE the Valley’s economy…”
— Dean Harris, CEO of WRTA
“Small businesses aren’t just part of the economy — they ARE the Valley’s economy —quietly employ the majority of our local workforce. “ says Dean Harris, CEO of WRTA. “The WRTA Small Business of the Year Award is one way acknowledge that when a small business like Sky Roofing thrives, the entire Valley moves forward.”
Sky Roofing was one of the six businesses honored last week at WRTA Small Business Awards event at the B&O Banquet Hall in Youngstown. The other five winners were Brilliant Cleaning Service, Legacy Tire and Auto Repair, Evo Eco, 36 Chambers Jiu Jitsu Academy and Paladin Brewing.
WRTA Announces Winners of 2026 Small Business Awards
Award Presentations and Announcement of Small Business of the Year will be held Thursday May 28 at B&O Station Banquet Hall
Youngstown —The 5th Annual WRTA Small Business Awards competition attracted entries by more than 70 Valley small businesses. Chosen by a panel of business leaders, winners receive recognition by Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA), Gov DeWine and the State of Ohio, as well as a shared marketing program designed to build awareness.
“Small businesses aren’t just part of the economy — they ARE the Valley’s economy. They quietly employ the majority of our local workforce. “ says Dean Harris, CEO of WRTA. “Taking this night to honor small business is a way to acknowledge that when small business thrives the entire Valley moves forward.”
Harris continued: “For WRTA, supporting small business means being reliable — whether it’s getting a mechanic to the shop or a baker to a kitchen — we see our ourselves as a partner in their daily operations. If we could make the commute easier for their employees and customers, we’ve done our job in keeping this region’s economic engine running.”
“Small businesses aren’t just part of the economy – they ARE the Valley’s economy. They quietly employ the majority of our local workforce.” — Dean Harris, CEO of WRTA
2026 WRTA SMALL BUSINESS AWARD WINNERS
36 Chambers Jiu-Jitsu Academy — Located on Market Street in Boardman, 36 Chambers Owner Tom Scala says Jiu-jitsu nurtures qualities that make our area great: perseverance and resourcefulness.
Brilliant Cleaning Service — Woman-owned Brilliant Cleaning Service is celebrating 10 years in business in 2026. Theresa Viviano is the owner of the Boardman-based company.
Evo Eco — Owned by Andrew Grueber, Evo Eco is an industrial environmental service company based in Youngstown serving businesses, landfills, and municipalities.
Legacy Tire and Auto Repair — Mary Rogenski, the woman owner in a male dominated industry is proud of the 45 years her firm has been serving the Valley from it’s Mahoning Avenue location.
Paladin Brewing— John and Abby Chandler, owners of this 11-year old firm, on Mahoning Avenue seek to create real community impact with welcoming gatherings that help neighbors connect.
Sky Roofing — Owned by Matt Estephan, Sky is celebrating its 25th year in business. The Canfield-based firm has grown from a single Valley office to providing services across Ohio.
WINNERS CAN WIN MORE
The six award-winning companies can also complete a detailed questionnaire and enter the competition for the title of WRTA SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR. That honor earns the business a custom TV advertising campaign from Spectrum Reach, a social media marketing campaign from Farris Marketing/StrategiX Social and a business booster check for $1,000 from Platt Insurance/Auto Owners Insurance. The winner of that competition will be honored at the Awards Dinner.
The 2026 winners join a list of almost 40 other businesses who have earned the honor since WRTA founded the awards in 2021.
Nominations Open for 5th Annual Small Business Awards
Nominate your business to win marketing, recognition and a cash prize.
Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) is once again recognizing and honoring entrepreneurs and business owners of the Valley. The entry portal for its fifth annual WRTA Small Business Awards is now officially open and accepting nominations.
“Small business is the backbone of America and of the Mahoning Valley.” — Dean Harris.
“Small business is the backbone of America and of the Mahoning Valley.” says Dean Harris. “They take the risks and get little recognition. Yet, while large corporations get the headlines, small business quietly employs more than half of the local workforce.” Harris added: “We’re proud to transport the workforce of these businesses. Now we can help them get the recognition they deserve and create some awareness of what they offer.”
| The WRTA Small Business Awards — now in its fifth year — promotes and honors local small businesses, their owners and employees. Local small businesses that exemplify the Valley’s entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic will be chosen by a special panel and recognized at Thursday May 28, 2026 at the B&O Station Banquet Hall in Youngstown.
Winners receive an award and dinner, recognition from the State of Ohio plus a shared 90-Day Marketing Campaign with TV, Bus Advertising and Social Media. Award Winners automatically qualify to win the WRTA 2026 Small Business of the Year. This winner will receive a separate six month marketing campaign and $1,000 cash prize. |
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Nominations for the 5th Annual WRTA SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS is now closed.
Watch for an announcement about the winning entries.
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2025 WRTA SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS
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Bringing Our Brand to the Next Level
Mural artist Pat McGlone applies the base color to WRTA’s 52-ft high digital sign tower. The sign tower located at Federal Station, WRTA’s transit center located at 240 West Federal Street in downtown Youngstown. WRTA is undergoing an “brand refresh” with a new look, colors, logo and tagline.
Wrta Federal Station Sign Tower to Be Painted Local Mural Artist
Patrick McGlone & Crew Begin 3-day Project 10am Tuesday April 28
YOUNGSTOWN -The iconic sign tower at WRTA’s transit center at 340 West Federal Street in downtown Youngstown, standing 52 feet tall and featuring three giant video screens, is getting a new look.
“It’s a special sign and it deserves a special approach to redesign.” said WRTA’s CEO Dean Harris. “Entering downtown from Mahoning Avenue, it’s the first thing you see. We want to make sure that first impression of downtown is a good one.”
To help create that special look, WRTA asked muralist Patrick McGlone to handle the job. McGlone is best known for his building murals in downtown Youngstown and the Southern Park Mall.
The sign will feature WRTA’s updated branding including the updated logo and the curving highway design. Several times during the project, the process is expected to be on Facebook Live.
Patrick McGlone and his crew will begin the 3-day project Tuesday April 27. McGlone says the painting will begin at the top of the sign, which is nearly five stories high and then move downward.
March Board Meeting Cancelled
Please be advised that the March Board of Trustees Meeting set for Thursday, March 26 at 9:00 a.m. has been cancelled.
WRTA’s 2025 annual report
WRTA’s 2025 annual report is published and ready for your viewing.
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Click on this link and check it out today! |
