ODOT ‘Rides for Community Immunity’ program launched in all 88 counties

COLUMBUS — As COVID-19 vaccination efforts ramp up across Ohio, the Ohio Department of Transportation is providing extra funding to help local transit agencies and health departments to ensure all eligible Ohioans can get to vaccination sites.

“We want to make sure all Ohioans who want the vaccine have equal ability to get the vaccine,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Equity includes having access to transportation services.”

The Rides for Community Immunity program will provide $7 million distributed across all 88 counties to help get Ohio’s most vulnerable populations transportation to vaccine locations. For the 70 counties that have public transit programs, ODOT will be awarding the funds directly to public transit agencies. In the 18 counties that do not have transit service, the funding will be given to the county health department and can be used for purchased transportation services.

“Transportation should not be a hurdle to any eligible Ohioan who wants to be vaccinated.” ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks said. “We’re doing everything we can to make sure that access is available to all Ohioans, not just those with a vehicle or that live near a vaccination site.”

All public transit recipients will work with their local county health department and local EMA to identify the best way to use these funds. Local officials could leverage existing investments, such as offering vouchers for transit passes, or use these funds in conjunction with other transportation resources to help cover any additional cost that may be associated with keeping communities healthy.

“Gov. DeWine’s decision to provide additional funding targeted to support transportation to vaccination sites will help public transit agencies address the challenges of identifying and reaching those communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19,” General Manager/CEO of Portage Area RTA and President of the Ohio Public Transportation Association Claudia Amrhein said. “As public transit providers continue serving our communities through this pandemic, we are well positioned to coordinate with public health departments and county EMAs to facilitate access to vaccination sites.”

Funding will be distributed based on the most recent U.S. Census data and will not require any type of local match. Ohioans who have transportation needs are encouraged to reach out to either their local public transit agency or health department for details specific to their area.