Youngstown public transportation will experience several changes effective next week as outlined in the FY2025-2029 Transit Development Program by the Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA).
The current fixed-route bus service will continue to cover major routes connecting downtown Youngstown to key neighborhoods and commercial areas, including routes like Elm, Oak, Wilson, Steel, South, Fifth, Glenwood, Market, Austintown, Belmont, and Struthers. Notably, some routes have recently undergone modifications to improve coverage and timing. These routes connect important destinations such as Youngstown State University (YSU), Southern Park Mall, shopping plazas, hospitals, and residential areas.
The WRTA will also maintain its popular YSU campus shuttle service, which includes several circular loops (White and Red Loops) and express routes serving student housing and university buildings. These shuttles operate during fall and spring semesters on weekdays and provide free service to the public.
Late Night transit service remains a prescheduled curb-to-curb service operating Monday through Friday from 9:15 p.m. to midnight within Mahoning County. Riders must register in advance and schedule trips up to seven days ahead.
In addition to continuing these core transit services, WRTA is moving forward with plans for infrastructure and fleet upgrades including constructing a new barn to store and charge electric buses, signaling a push toward cleaner, more efficient transit options in the near future.
No major changes to route schedules or fares have been announced at this time, but riders are encouraged to check WRTA’s website and local announcements for any last-minute updates or service advisories.
These ongoing developments aim to balance reliable bus coverage with environmental sustainability and improved rider access, offering Youngstown residents continued transit options across the city and surrounding areas starting next week.
For detailed route maps, schedules, and registration for Late Night services, riders should visit the WRTA official website or contact customer service for assistance.
This update is based on the Western Reserve Transit Authority’s official FY2025-2029 Transit Development Program and recent system announcements.
Sources
(https://eastgatecog.org/media/cce5689e-77c0-4a44-a694-b83db54f446c/OSOz1A/transit%20planning/2024%20web%20updates/TDP%20FY2025-2029%20Final.pdf)
(https://www.cota.com/static/c7e38bafa79050b9efc94d2fb09d79c8/COTA-September-2025-Service-Change-Info-Meeting_v2.pdf)
(https://www.wrtaonline.com/news/)
(https://policymattersohio.org/research/how-ohio-funds-public-transit/)
(https://www.wrtaonline.com/2025/09/17/september-board-meeting-cancelled/)
