The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) has suspended fares systemwide for Tuesday, due to the Level 2 snow emergency that has been declared in Franklin County.

COTA suspends fares on all transit vehicles on all routes in the event the Franklin County Sheriff declares a Level 2 or Level 3 snow emergency. COTA offers this community service to encourage those who must travel to take public transit instead of their personal vehicles; this will help reduce traffic accidents in difficult driving conditions and assist the efforts of countywide snow removal and salting.

The no-fare policy will be in effect for the remainder of the service day once a Level 2 or Level 3 snow emergency is declared. The policy includes all transit vehicles, including fixed-route (buses), Mainstream, COTA//Plus and any other COTA vehicle.

The Franklin County Sheriff identifies Level 2 and Level 3 snow emergencies as the following:

• Level 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing, drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways.
• Level 3: All roads are closed to non-emergency personnel. NO ONE should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel.

For more information contact COTA at (614) 228-1776.