Based in Cleveland, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit System (RTA) has a rich history, tracing back to the city’s first electric railway cars in the mid-1900s. Notably, it established the first such system in the United States. Today, the RTA operates a comprehensive system that spans 59 municipalities over 457 square miles. The network includes four rail lines, four trolley lines, three bus rapid transit (BRT) lines, and 55 bus routes, providing approximately 44 million rides each year.

History

Cleveland’s public transportation system originated in the late 19th century, featuring electric railways that connected the downtown area with East 55th Street, and later expanding to University Circle. Between 1913 and 1920, light rail (rapid) service was introduced, primarily due to the efforts of the Van Sweringen brothers, to link downtown with their newly developed suburb of Shaker Heights.

Overview of Buses

The Cleveland RTA bus system boasts more than 400 buses, trolleys, and circulators, with approximately 6,000 bus stops and 1,100 shelters. The extensive network includes 55 routes and covers over 18.1 million vehicle service miles, ensuring robust service throughout the region.

Rapid Train System

The Cleveland RTA Rapid train system features four lines, each serving critical connections within the city. The Red Line links Cleveland Hopkins International Airport with the Terminal Tower to the west, extending to Windermere Station on the east side. The Green Line connects the Terminal Tower to Green Road, passing through Shaker Square, while the Blue Line runs to Warrensville Road, also via Shaker Square. Finally, the Waterfront Line connects the Cleveland Harborfront (near the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) with the Warehouse District and the East Bank of the Flats, offering scenic travel options.

Cleveland Trolleys

Downtown Cleveland features trolleys that provide convenient connections between the Terminal Tower, Playhouse Square, the Warehouse District, and the vibrant East Fourth Street Entertainment District. These services also link essential government buildings along East 12th Street.

RTA Passes and Farecards

RTA passes and farecards are accessible through various channels: online, at many local vendors participating in the computer advantage program, and directly on buses or trains. They are also obtainable at the RTA Service Center located in the Tower City Rapid Station, along with more than 150 locations throughout Northeast Ohio.

Park-n-Ride Facilities

The Cleveland RTA efficiently accommodates over 8,000 vehicles at Park-n-Ride locations, allowing riders to pay a single fare to park and ride the bus to their destinations. Weekly and monthly passes are available for frequent commuters. Notable Park-n-Ride lots are situated in Brecksville, Berea, Bay Village, Euclid, North Olmsted, Strongsville, and Westlake, providing ample options for commuters.

Euclid Corridor Project

Among the recent developments by RTA is the Euclid Corridor Project, a dedicated transit route that seamlessly connects Public Square in downtown Cleveland with the arts and cultural district, University Circle, Cleveland State University, and the Cleveland Theater District. This innovative route features special energy-efficient vehicles and a dedicated “smart” transit lane, complemented by a range of public art projects. The significant project was completed in October 2008, showcasing RTA’s commitment to enhancing public transportation.

Contact Information

Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority
1240 West 6th Street
Cleveland, OH 44113

Source
Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority

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