State of Metro 2024 Celebrates Promises Delivered, Impact, and a Look at What’s to Come

Cincinnati-
As Metro continues to reshape public transit in Hamilton County, nearly 400 elected officials, bus riders, business and community leaders, transit industry decision-makers, and more joined Metro to celebrate the promises delivered so far from the Reinventing Metro plan and what's to come.

The Reinventing Metro plan has been instrumental in transforming Metro's services and infrastructure, ensuring a more efficient and reliable transit system for the community

U.S. Representative Greg Landsman delivered the keynote address, noting that few regions across the country are experiencing the kind of public transit growth seen in Hamilton County and the Cincinnati region. He praised Metro for its diligent efforts in implementing its strategy, and transforming public transit in Southwest Ohio to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Delivering on Our Promise

The event's theme, "Delivering on Our Promise," emphasized how Metro and all attendees have been instrumental in creating a thriving transit system that deeply impacts the community. Since the passage of Issue 7 and the launch of Reinventing Metro, Metro has continuously transformed the system into the responsive, industry-leading network Greater Cincinnati needs, and it is now leading the nation in pre-pandemic ridership recovery at 117%.

Metro CEO and General Manager Darryl Haley highlighted the delivered promises in his State of Metro address, emphasizing innovation, expanded service and frequency, partnerships, community engagement, accessibility, overall impact, and a strong commitment to safety. "We're halfway through executing this comprehensive plan, and the transformation is being noticed throughout the region. And the best is yet to come," he stated.

To date, Metro has successfully implemented seven 24-hour routes, seven crosstown routes, increased service frequency and span, doubled weekend service, and launched the new MetroNow! on-demand service, among other improvements.

Through the first part of the Reinventing Metro Plan, Metro has connected people to more than 93,000 additional jobs in the County and provided 24-hour service to more than 220,000 jobs, ensuring reliable transit regardless of work hours. Additionally, through the Metro Transit Infrastructure Funds, Metro has awarded more than $300 million to 33 municipalities for more than 100 projects across Hamilton County, enhancing roads, sidewalks, bridges, and other transit-supportive infrastructure. These funds have positively impacted communities of all sizes throughout the county.

The upcoming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) on the Hamilton Avenue and Reading Road corridors was spotlighted as a major future development. Set to launch in 2027, BRT will be Metro's largest innovation yet. Currently in the design phase, Metro is actively seeking community feedback to shape the project. Haley concluded his speech with a video featuring Metro riders and community members who are benefiting from a thriving transit system, stating, "These stories are why we work together - to build a better region - where everyone can thrive."

Hamilton County Board of Commissioners President Alicia Reece and Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval also addressed the audience, speaking to Metro's crucial role in the region and how residents benefit from the cooperative strategy taken by the city, the county and Metro.

Other speakers included Metro's Board Chair Blake Ethridge and American Public Transportation Association (APTA) President and CEO Paul Skoutelas.

Recognizing Our Partners
Metro was also pleased to present its State of Metro 2024 Awards. These awards honor individuals and organizations who have been supportive of its mission of connecting Hamilton County and celebrate their continued partnership.

Leadership Award
Gwen Robinson, Metro Board Vice Chair

Business Partnership Award
TriHealth

Community Partnership Award
University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art & Planning

Community Advocacy Award
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Community Impact Award
Cincinnati NAACP

The State of Metro 2024, held at the Sharonville Convention Center, was hosted by Local 12 evening anchor Kyle Inskeep. Emmy Award-winning international jazz vocalist Kathy Wade sang the national anthem, accompanied by the presentation of colors from the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department Pipe & Drum Corps. The event also included a musical performance by local violinist Preston Charles III.