FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, August 12, 2009

Contact: Tina Lowery

Office (405) 273-3000

Fax (405) 214-4327

Ridership on the Central Oklahoma Transit System (COTS) increased 75 percent in April over the same month one year ago.  In April 2009 COTS provided 1,619 rides, compared to 1,161 rides in April 2008.  Tina Lowery, who was promoted to COTS Director in October 2008, stated, “Our staff members enjoy working with the public, and will continue to put their needs first.” 

COTS is a program of Central Oklahoma Community Action Agency (COCAA), a non-profit organization that provides a variety of services in six central Oklahoma counties.  COCAA’s mission is to help individuals and families cope with emergencies and become more self-sufficient.  COCAA is governed by a 12-member volunteer Board of Directors.  

COTS operates demand response transportation services in Pottawatomie County.  COTS is open to the public, and children under 12 ride free.  COTS has recently extended its hours from 7:30am until 5:00pm.  The cost for rides within Shawnee city limits is $3.00 each way.  Rides outside Shawnee city limits are based on mileage.   COTS also provides medical related rides from Pottawatomie County to limited areas in Cleveland, Oklahoma, and Seminole counties.  The cost of these rides also depends on mileage.      

In April 2009 at COCAA’s Annual Meeting, all COTS team members received a Certificate of Outstanding Achievement for their dedication and hard work.  Tina Lowery received the Leadership Award, which is given to one employee at COCAA each year.  Thanks in part to new ARRA (stimulus) funding, COTS expects to double their fleet by the end of 2009.  This will allow COTS to provide more rides to the public, as well as create more jobs in the community for drivers and office assistance.