Laketran, Geauga Transit Secure $2.3 Million Grant To Expand Regional Job Access

Laketran and Geauga Transit, both located in Northeastern Ohio, have been awarded two grants through ODOT’s Workforce Mobility Program (OWMP) — including a new $2 million award — to broaden public transit access and help residents reach employment throughout Lake and Geauga counties.

“The new grant continues the momentum after the first round of OWMP funding, which helped launch Geauga Transit’s ‘Wheels to Work’ program in 2023,” according to a press release. “That program already has increased ridership 16 percent for Geauga Transit. With this second award, Laketran and Geauga Transit will explore and implement cross-county transportation services with a strong focus on improving job access for Amish and other transit-dependent populations in Geauga County.”

A Geauga Transit driver is shown assisting a passenger as the passenger heads to work. (Photo courtesy of Laketran)

“This is a very exciting opportunity for Geauga Transit, and I truly appreciate ODOT’s continued support of our vision for improving regional transportation between Lake and Geauga counties,” Laketran CEO Ben Capelle said. “This new award gives us the opportunity to explore cross-county transportation that connects residents to employment throughout the region. We’re excited to build on the success of the Wheels to Work program and continue expanding mobility and economic opportunity for the communities we serve.”

In an ODOT press release, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine shared, “Transportation should never stand in the way of a good job. This investment will help more Ohioans get to work and support employers who need reliable, skilled workers.”

Established through Ohio legislation, the Workforce Mobility Program directs federal transportation funds to projects that reduce barriers to employment. In this round, ODOT awarded approximately $13.5 million to transit systems, nonprofits, and local governments working to close mobility gaps and improve access to jobs, training, and essential services.

Laketran and Geauga Transit will begin planning and outreach in 2026 to define service alternatives, identify employer and community-partners, and schedule implementation phases for the cross-county connectivity initiative.