WayGo launches Wooster public transit with $1 bus loop, on-demand rides

After over a year of planning with the Ohio Department of Transportation Office of Transit, local officials, area nonprofits and local stakeholders, the City of Wooster’s WayGo new rural public transit system is up and running.

“Our first year focuses on the Wooster area, making transportation simple, affordable and accessible for everyone,” said Kevin White, public transportation manager for the City of Wooster. “We offer a fixed-route bus loop connecting key destinations like shopping centers, schools and medical facilities, along with curb-to-curb service anywhere in Wooster or within a mile of city limits.”

WayGo may eventually expand to serve all of Wayne County.

Unlike previous transportation options in the area, which were limited to residents who qualified due to income, disability or veteran status, WayGo is for everyone. Additionally, it provides a simpler solution to those seeking public transport.

“Before WayGo, transportation was often confusing,” White said. “There wasn’t one dedicated service or a single point of entry to schedule rides. People had to navigate multiple programs with different rules, which made it harder to get where they needed to go.”

WayGo was created to simplify the process and bring all efforts under one system, making it easier for residents to access reliable transportation. The unified approach unlocks sustainable funding from both state and federal sources, ensuring the service can grow over time. 

“By leveraging modern technology, WayGo can operate more efficiently, reduce costs and collect data that supports future planning,” White said.

It’s not just a service for people who can’t drive. WayGo is a resource anyone can rely on if they find themselves without transportation.

“Maybe your car is in the shop, maybe you’re a student without a vehicle or maybe you’re a senior who wants to stay connected to the community,” White said. “WayGo is designed to be a transportation safety net for all.”

Wooster has had a transportation program in some form for many years. Most recently, the city funded a service that was managed by Community Action Wayne/Medina.

“That program has now transitioned into WayGo, allowing us to take advantage of the additional resources and opportunities that come with operating a public transportation system,” White said. "This transition has enabled us to expand coverage, remove limits on monthly trips and trip types, and make the service available to everyone with no eligibility restrictions.”

Beyond the fixed-route bus service, WayGo’s curb-to-curb service can be scheduled on demand through the app, website or by phone, allowing much more flexibility than a bus-stop-only system.

In terms of bus fare, there are two types of riders: the general public and discounted riders, which include individuals over the age of 62, veterans and people with disabilities. For the fixed-loop service, the general public pays $1, and discounted riders are free.

For on-demand service, general public riders pay $5, and discounted riders pay $3 per one-way trip.

White said, “We recommend scheduling trips in advance, and rides can be booked up to two weeks ahead of time.”

Currently, trips are paid at the time of service, with exact change. In the coming weeks, WayGo also will offer credit card payment through the app and by phone for riders who prefer a cashless option.

WayGo’s fleet includes nine accessible vehicles — five cutaway buses, two accessible vans and two modified minivans. All vehicles are equipped to accommodate wheelchairs, power scooters and other mobility devices. The largest vehicle can accommodate eight seated passengers and two wheelchair passengers.

Currently, bikes are allowed on the fixed-route buses on a case-by-case basis, depending on available space inside the vehicle. Future WayGo buses will be equipped with exterior bike racks to make it easier for riders to combine biking with transit.

All WayGo drivers complete a two-week training program that includes first aid, CPR, mobility device securement and a behind-the-wheel evaluation. Drivers are all in uniform. Additionally, the system employs local dispatchers who coordinate drivers and assist with bookings.

“Having dispatchers from the area is a huge asset,” White said. “They can guide riders through the booking process, answer questions about routes or service options, and provide personalized support to ensure a smooth and safe transit experience.”

With a top priority of safety for both riders and drivers, WayGo will suspend service during level two and three snow emergencies, as well as other severe weather or safety-related events.

What’s ahead for WayGo and public transportation in Wayne County?

“The ultimate goal is to provide transit coverage across all of Wayne County, but achieving this will take time and strong partnerships," White said. "We’re exploring pilot programs to increase mobility options and better serve the community. Our plan is to identify areas with higher concentrations of potential riders and focus on connecting them to essential destinations such as work, school, health care and shopping. Our goal is to build a permanent, reliable transit system that continues to grow and evolve to serve the community.”

Find WayGo and download the RidesOnDemand app at www.RideWayGo.com. For questions email or call White at kwhite@woosteroh.com or 330-263-5255.