Nov 5, 2024 - Election

Central Ohio voters approve LinkUs transit plan

Alissa Widman Neese

An overview of a proposed intersection improvement on Broad Street, with the Columbus skyline in the background — A proposed rapid-transit corridor on the West Broad Street intersection near COSI, with new bus and bicycle lanes. Rendering: Courtesy of LinkUs Columbus

Central Ohio will get its first rapid-transit bus corridors and other public transportation improvements after voters approved a $8 billion plan called LinkUs.

Why it matters: The project will rebuild streets for safer and more efficient bus, bicycle and pedestrian travel, while adding sidewalks and trails spanning 150 miles throughout the region.

It will also expand bus hours.
It's a historic investment for Columbus, one of the largest U.S. cities without passenger rail.

Follow the money: Most of the Central Ohio Transit Authority's funding comes from a 0.5% sales tax.

This ballot item will double the sales tax to 1%, bringing in an estimated $6 billion through 2050. The remaining funds will come from other sources.

Zoom in: The proposal passed with about 57% voter approval across COTA's five-county service area, according to unofficial local election results.

What's next: Construction is expected to begin next year.

The first rapid-transit corridor, on West Broad Street, could be finished as early as 2028 or 2029, officials previously told Axios.
Four others will be completed after that.

Add Axios on Google

Central Ohio voters approve LinkUs transit plan

More Columbus stories