COTA Cautions Anticipated Significant Transit Delays During Winter Storm Thursday and Friday
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is warning customers to expect significant delays on Thursday, Feb. 3 and Friday, Feb. 4 due to potentially dangerous road conditions posed by the winter storm and anticipated workforce availability due to the weather. Local forecasters are predicting freezing rain, sleet and snow, which could cause delays and significant gaps in service. Customers are urged to stay at home on Thursday, if possible, as weather conditions could be treacherous.
If customers do need to travel, COTA is urging them to take the following precautions:
- Dress warmly and wear brightly colored clothing to be spotted at transit stops.
- Call COTA’s Customer Care Center at (614) 228-1776 to find out when the next bus will arrive at your stop.
- Allow for extra time to get to your destination. Try to avoid travel that requires connections between multiple lines. That could result in longer wait times.
- Be careful and watch your step. Watch for icy sidewalks and streets. NEVER run toward a bus at a transit stop.
- Regularly check COTA social media, the Transit App or visit COTA.com to check out the latest delays.
A reminder that if the Franklin County Sheriff declares a Level 2 or Level 3 snow emergency in Franklin County, customers will not be charged fare for the remainder of the day. The Franklin County Sheriff identifies snow emergencies as the following:
- Level 1: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be icy. Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously.
- Level 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing, drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways.
- Level 3: All roads are closed to non-emergency personnel. NO ONE should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel.
