Rail Service Shutdowns

Aug 25, 2023

Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA), provides essential transit services with over 19.1 million rides in Cuyahoga County. The GCRTA operates both rail and bus transit options, connecting passengers throughout the Greater Cleveland area. However, maintenance work, severe weather conditions, and emergencies may force the rail system (Red Line, Blue Line, Green Line) to have changes. To minimize inconvenience, the GCRTA has designed a bus replacement service, a flexible alternative for riders during rail shutdowns. During rail shutdowns, alternative bus service provides the necessary flexibility to serve riders. Here’s an insight into how GCRTA uses bus replacement services during a rail shutdown.

Replacement Bus Service

When rail service is interrupted, GCRTA will dispatch its replacement buses, 67R for the Blue Line/Green Line and 66R for the Red Line, to pick up riders and provide them with an alternative mode of transport due to the trains being shut down. The replacement bus service follows the rail routes and brings the riders aboard to their designated bus stops along the rail lines.

Communication to Riders

To keep riders informed about rail shutdowns, GCRTA utilizes multiple communication channels, such as the main website, rideRTA.com (for riders' alerts, and press releases), signage at the stations, social media, newspaper articles, local news stations, Transit App with EZfare (for trip planning), and radio appearances to update riders about service disruptions.