In the realm of public transportation, TARTA’s journey dates back to the mid-20th century when the need for an efficient public transit system became increasingly evident. Due to the rapid advancement in the auto industry, the century-old rail transit lines that criss-crossed throughout Toledo were abandoned, roads and early urban bus routes began to emerge. The founding of TARTA in 1971 brought with it the promise of accessible and reliable transportation for Toledoans. Since then, TARTA’s growth has continued to persist through economic challenges and shifts in industry throughout the greater Toledo area. Over the decades, it has extended its reach, connecting neighborhoods, businesses, universities and communities across the Toledo area. From its modest beginnings, TARTA’s fleet has grown to a network of thirty-two routes, ensuring that residents can rely on public transportation as a viable means of commuting and exploring the city.
Recently, Juice House members sat down with Alex Huffaker, executive assistant to the CEO of TARTA to find out more about how transit has grown over the years in this region and where new developments are happening for those who utilize this transportation network as a point of access to the city and what it has to offer.
“…a few years ago, TARTA launched the TARTA Next Vision, which is our strategic plan for the next 10 years, our vision for where we want to be at,” Huffaker said. “Part of that plan incorporates going to an all-electric and fuel alternative fleet,” he said.
The plan is one key part of how the organization is continuing its history of growth and adaptation. Having begun initially as bus transit under its current name, it has developed into multiple modes of transportation, including robust bus routes, paratransit and on-demand services that connect riders to the city and beyond, while adapting to the needs of the population and municipalities that it serves. It has continued to expand its reach, connecting neighborhoods, businesses and communities as part of the recent strategic plan. Currently in a new season of change, it is putting more resources into building infrastructure deeper into communities throughout the area.
“Now we’re investing in ourselves, we’re investing in our facility and our employees and in morale,” Huffaker said. “We are making sure every tax dollar spent goes towards investing in TARTA so that way we can make a better TARTA for the community,” Huffaker said.
Serving the community is a key part of TARTA’s values. Huffaker shared about a new line of transit that extends not only into parts of Wood County, but also to the city of Oregon, offering access to neighboring communities who benefit from having more access to the greater Toledo area.
“Oregon has been asking for public transportation for some time now … and we are so excited to be able to … be launching Oregon services,” Huffaker said.
TARTA has embraced changes in the transportation industry and have introduced innovative programs designed to enhance the rider experience. Leveraging modern technology via smart phones for route navigation and sustainable practices with their alternative fuel buses and flex vehicles, TARTA is committed to improving efficiency, accessibility and environmental impact.
Recognizing their critical role to their riders especially during difficult economic times, is just one example of the organization’s ability to adapt to the needs of the community.
“TARTA was one of the first transit organizations in the country to go to a fare-free structure during the pandemic,” Huffaker said. “We were also one of the last transit organizations to go back to a normal fare structure,” he said.
Now, as Toledo continues to evolve, so does TARTA. Showing resilience in the face of challenges throughout the decades since its inception, TARTA is charting a new course for the future. Plans include expanding routes, adopting more eco-friendly buses and developing state-of-the-art transit hubs.
“Another focal point of the TARTA Next Vision was establishing a microtransit on-demand service, what we call TARTA Flex,” Huffaker said. “TARTA Flex is an incredible service to the community; we needed something that felt like a taxi service, but it’s public transit run,” he said.
With community at its core, TARTA is more than just a transit agency; it’s a vital part of Toledo’s identity. A symbol of resilience, TARTA embodies Toledo’s enduring role in regional transportation, connecting communities and helping to shape the city’s future one ride at a time.
On campus but looking to get around the city? TARTA offers three routes hugging the border of the University of Toledo as well as other route options for students moving between other campuses. To learn more about TARTA’s extensive network of routes, visit their interactive map here.