RCT Flex Launches May 4 to Expand Workforce Transportation

A Nationally Recognized Pilot
Richland County Regional Planning Commission, RCT, NECIC and regional partners recently convened stakeholders to share updates on the Mobility, Access and Transportation Insecurity (MATI) project—an innovative workforce transportation initiative supported by 100% Federal Transit Administration research funding through the University of Minnesota’s Center for Transportation Studies. Mansfield is one of only four cities nationwide selected for this effort.

Introducing RCT Flex
At the center of the project is Richland County Transit’s expanded service RCT Flex, a new one-year pilot launching May 4, 2026, designed to better serve early morning, late evening, and overnight shift workers. These RCT Flex routes will run before and after RCT’s regular daytime routes, as follows:

Service hours: Approximately 4:30–7:00 a.m. and 6:15–11:15 p.m., Monday–Friday
Service area: Service in Mansfield connects major employment centers with neighborhoods where people lack reliable transportation
Flexible service: “Deviated fixed route” allows buses to travel up to ¼ mile off route for pickups

New Routes & Connections
The pilot introduces two new routes designed for coverage and connectivity:

Orange Route: Primarily east-west, including areas not directly served during the day
Green Route: Primarily north-south, with northern segments similar to Route 15 (Airport)
Transfers:
- Primary hub at the RCT Transit Center
- Secondary transfer point at Longview and Main

In addition, RCT will pilot expanded mid-day service on Route 15 (Airport) to improve connections for first- and second-shift workers.

Affordable and Open to All
RCT Flex fares remain consistent with regular service:

$2 per trip
$5 day pass (unlimited rides)
$50 monthly pass
Half-price discounts for youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities
All RCT buses are ADA accessible

While designed to support workforce needs, RCT Flex is a public service available for any trip purpose, including shopping, appointments, and community activities.

Research & Community Participation
Alongside the service launch, the North End Community Improvement Collaborative (NECIC) is leading a community research effort to evaluate the pilot’s impact on residents.

Participants can complete surveys and interviews ($50 stipends available)
Researchers will compare access and outcomes across different areas of the community

For more information about this community research or to share recruitment flyers, contact Emily Schwan, emily@necic-ohio.org.

In parallel, transit consultants are working with local employers to assess impacts on workforce recruitment, retention, and attendance. Employers who wish to participate should contact jtaddie@rcrpc.org.