RTA expands free rides to COVID vaccination appointments to include fixed-route buses

MEDIA CONTACT:  Jessica Olson (937) 425-8352, Communications Manager

Dayton, Ohio — The Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority will expand its program offering rides free of charge to any Montgomery County resident in need of transportation to a COVID-19 vaccination appointment to include its regular fixed-route buses, effective immediately. 

“RTA is expanding our efforts to ensure everyone who needs a ride for a vaccination gets one,” said Bob Ruzinsky, RTA’s Deputy CEO. “This program supports the efforts of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine to expand eligibility and ensure transportation is not a barrier to anyone receiving a vaccine.” 

Those seeking transportation to get to their vaccination appointment will now have two options: when boarding any bus, customers may present their appointment registration in print or on their mobile device, and/or their COVID-19 shot record to ride at no charge on the day of their vaccine appointment.

Customers who do not have access to a bus route on the day and time of their appointment may still schedule their vaccine trip on RTA’s Connect service. Connect reservations can be made seven days a week, between the hours 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., and same day reservations will be considered subject to availability. RTA or one of its qualified providers will provide transportation service. To schedule a trip, call (937) 425-8300, option #6.

This program expansion will increase access and provide more flexibility for those needing a ride to their appointment, including at the state-selected Dayton Convention Center site, located at 22 E. Fifth St., Dayton. The site is expected to open in the coming weeks under the operation of Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County. It is conveniently located two blocks from RTA’s main transit center, Wright Stop Plaza, at 4 S. Main St., Dayton. 

The state of Ohio has created a website to facilitate who is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine and where to book your appointment. For more information, visit https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov/.