The Lorain County Transit Roundtable convened on May 24, 2025, to discuss the current state and future of public transportation in Lorain County, Ohio. The meeting focused on ridership statistics, service improvements, and strategic planning to enhance transit options for the community.

Key discussions revealed that 45% of surveyed riders utilize the transit service to commute to work, indicating a significant increase in efficiency compared to previous transit options. The introduction of Via has notably improved access for employees, with 17% of respondents using the service for educational purposes, particularly to local institutions like Lorain County Community College and Elyria High School. Additionally, 24% of trips are made for shopping, highlighting the service's role in assisting those without personal vehicles, especially the homebound.

A concerning statistic shared during the meeting was that 79% of respondents do not have access to a personal car, underscoring the critical need for reliable public transportation. The discussion also touched on the importance of reducing wait times, with a previous goal set to keep them under ten minutes. However, it was noted that expanded service hours and increased destination options have become more pressing priorities for riders.

Short-term goals outlined included adjustments to transit zone boundaries to better serve high-demand areas and improve route efficiency. The team is exploring strategies to connect key locations, such as O'Leary and Lorraine, potentially utilizing transfer points to streamline service.

The meeting concluded with a call for a unified approach to transit services, emphasizing the need for collaboration among various transit functions to create a cohesive public transportation system. Future planning documents are expected to provide clearer direction on service expansion and improvements, ensuring that Lorain County Transit continues to meet the evolving needs of its community.