Laketran Celebrates Historic Milestone Serving Its 25th Millionth Rider

Laketran driver Lynn Fatica, right, takes Tammy Brooks home from work for Laketran’s 25th Millionth trip.

On Tuesday, June 6 at 4 p.m., Laketran (Lake County, OH) staff surprised Tammy Brooks, a Laketran Dial-a-Ride rider, as the 25th millionth rider in the history of Laketran. Brooks was picked up from Papillion Enrichment Center, where she works in Willoughby Hills, OH, and was escorted home by driver Lynn Fatica, along with Laketran CEO Ben Capelle.

Brooks moved to Lake County in 2001 so that she could have access to Laketran due to a visual impairment that does not allow her to drive. She has been riding Laketran for the last 22 years to get to and from work.

“I am so excited and honored to be recognized as Laketran’s 25th millionth rider,” Brooks said. “Having access to Laketran impacts my ability to work, helps out my family, and is truly a lifeline for me to be independent. I’m so happy to be able to rely on this service.”

Brooks uses Laketran’s Dial-a-Ride service that provides door-to-door, assisted transportation throughout Lake County and to some Cuyahoga County medical facilities. Lake County seniors and people with disabilities primarily use the service to get to work, as well as to senior centers, dialysis, and other medical appointments.

“We are grateful to serve riders like Tammy, who rely on Laketran to get them to and from the important events and activities in their lives,” Capelle said.

In 2022, Laketran served nearly 550,000 riders and its Dial-a-Ride ridership saw an 18% increase over 2021 ridership.

Laketran trustee and former Willoughby Hills council member Laura Pizmoht presented a commendation on behalf of the Lake County Commissioners stating, “It is an honor to present this recognition on behalf of Lake County to our 25th millionth passenger, because it is such an incredible milestone for Laketran.”

The agency’s next major milestone will be its 50th Anniversary in 2024.