RCT Flex Expands Transit Access Beyond Regular Service Hours

RCT launched RCT Flex on May 4 as a one-year pilot program providing public transportation during hours when regular fixed-route service is unavailable. Operating Monday through Friday from 4:30–7:00 a.m. and 6:15–11:15 p.m., the service supports workers with early morning, evening, and overnight shifts while remaining open to the public for shopping, medical appointments, school, and other trips.

 

The pilot features two one-hour loop routes. Route 17 connects the Mansfield Industrial Park area with Cook Road, serving several apartment communities, while Route 18 travels between Home Road and Newman Street, serving the Longview Avenue corridor, grocery stores, and OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. Riders can transfer at the RCT Transit Center or at Longview Avenue and Main Street.

 

RCT Flex also offers a convenient route deviation option, allowing scheduled pickups within one-quarter mile of the route for an additional $2 per trip when reserved at least 24 hours in advance. Like all RCT routes, Flex also uses flag stops, allowing passengers to board anywhere along the route by signaling the driver from the correct side of the street.

 

The routes were designed to serve areas with high transportation needs and major employment centers. Approximately 31,800 residents and 16,800 jobs are located within a half-mile of the Flex routes, including at least 47 apartment buildings, as shown on the route map.

 

To further improve access to employment, RCT has also added midday trips on Route 15 (Airport) to better serve shift changes at the Airport Industrial Park.

 

Flex fares are the same as regular RCT service: $2 one-way, with discounted fares for youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Riders can pay with cash or through the EZFare mobile app using credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

 

The pilot is fully funded through a Federal Transit Administration research grant administered by the University of Minnesota's Mobility, Access, and Transportation Insecurity (MATI) Program. RCT is one of only four transit systems nationwide selected to demonstrate innovative solutions for improving transportation access.

 

The local steering committee includes Richland County Transit, Richland County Regional Planning Commission, North End Community Improvement Collaborative, and RLS & Associates. The pilot service was developed through more than 18 months of planning and collaboration with local partners, employers, community organizations, and residents to address identified transportation needs.