Ohio State University and the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) announced a new discount transit access program for Ohio State faculty and staff.

Ohio State faculty and staff members will now have the option of purchasing discounted COTA monthly fares for local routes via pre-tax payroll deduction. After enrolling in payroll deduction, the program will require participating employees to obtain a new BuckID and “swipe it” for unlimited access to local COTA fixed routes, beginning May 1, 2015.

“COTA values the long-standing partnership with Ohio State and its students, and we’re pleased to partner with Ohio State on providing additional payment options to faculty and staff,” said COTA President/CEO W. Curtis Stitt. “The opportunity to swipe a BuckID instead of purchasing a pass on-site makes using COTA’s services more convenient.”

Multiple COTA routes provide service between the Ohio State campus and locations throughout central Ohio. The Ohio State University Campus Area Bus Service (CABS) shares multiple on campus bus stops with COTA, further promoting connectivity between the transit systems and enhancing travel options on and around the university.

“Additional payment options will allow faculty and staff to more conveniently access COTA routes,” said Beth Snoke, director, Ohio State Transportation and Traffic Management. “This program is another great example of how the university’s partnership with COTA continues to enhance transportation offerings to the university community.”

Since 1996 COTA has also offered Ohio State faculty and staff a $4 discount on monthly and 31-DayPasses. The $4 discount will be offered through the new payroll deduction program, and 31-DayPasses will also be available to purchase at select locations on the Ohio State campus. The combination of the longstanding $4 discount and the added value of the pre-tax benefit, represent a greater savings to those who choose to utilize COTA as a transportation option.

"We’re confident that the program will encourage increased public transportation use by Ohio State faculty and staff,” said Stitt.