COTA Holds Forums On Downtown Circulator

The Central Ohio Transit Authority is developing a plan for special buses to carry riders among the hottest spots in downtown Columbus. COTA envisions stops that include the Arena District, German Village and the Short North. Specially branded buses would run between those areas on a faster schedule than other bus lines at reduced fairs or for free. Agency officials say they're targeting May 20-14 as a possible launch date. The agency is trying to appeal to both those who live or work downtown and to visitors who want to see local landmarks but don't want to figure out more-complex routes. Similar lines have been used in Cleveland, Baltimore and Washington, D.C.