COLTS Celebrates 2025 Rider Appreciation Days and Highlights Ongoing
Advocacy Efforts to Protect Public Transportation

Scranton, PA — County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS) is proud to join transit
agencies across Pennsylvania in celebrating Rider Appreciation Days, May 5–10,
This special week recognizes the riders who rely on public transportation every
day, and underscores the critical role that transit plays in keeping our communities
connected and moving forward.

“Every ride tells a story,” says COLTS, Keri Savage, Director of Business
Communication and Compliance “Our riders are students, workers, seniors, neighbors,
and friends. They depend on COLTS to access jobs, healthcare, groceries, and family.
Rider Appreciation Days are about recognizing them, thanking them, and reaffirming our
commitment to keeping reliable service available for everyone.”

Across Pennsylvania, public transit is a lifeline:
• 63% of transit riders have no other transportation option.
• 55% of riders earn less than $50,000 annually.

In today’s challenging economic climate, ensuring affordable, accessible public
transportation is more important than ever. Without it, thousands of Pennsylvanians
could lose critical connections to work, education, healthcare, and everyday essentials.
As part of Rider Appreciation Days, COLTS is also highlighting its ongoing advocacy
efforts to secure additional state funding. These efforts are vital to maintain service
levels, avoid disruptions, and continue providing the dependable transportation our
riders need and deserve.

“We are here for our riders, and we are proud to serve them,” Savage added. “Public
transit isn’t just about getting from point A to point B, it’s about strengthening
communities, supporting economic growth, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity
to live full and connected lives.”

Throughout the week, COLTS will be hosting giveaways, social media shoutouts, and
Celebrity Guest Ride Alongs to celebrate and thank riders for choosing public transit.

https://coltsbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Rider-Appreciation.pdf