Laketran was recently honored with two Excellence Awards from the Ohio Public Transit Association at the 2025 Best of the Midwest Transit Conference and Expo in Columbus. The event recognizes both organizational collaboration and individual achievement within the state’s public transit industry. T he agency received the Collaborative Excellence Award alongside the Geauga County commissioners for its successful partnership in enhancing public transportation in Geauga County. “This recognition is truly an honor,” said Commissioner Carolyn Brakey. “When we decided to partner with Laketran to manage Geauga Transit, our goal was simple: to improve access, reliability and efficiency for the residents who depend on public transportation. “This partnership has brought new energy and innovation to our transit services and affirms that collaboration works,” she added. “I’m proud of what our teams have accomplished together.” The collective effort began in July 2023 when Geauga County contracted with Laketran to manage its rural transit system. Since then, Laketran has modernized Geauga Transit’s operations with a new brand identity, website and a fleet of accessible propane-powered buses — improving service efficiency and sustainability while increasing ridership by 16 percent. “This award is truly shared with the commissioners,” said Laketran CEO Ben Capelle. “Together, we’ve built a partnership that demonstrates what collaboration can achieve for both urban and rural communities. “Our joint focus on modernization, accessibility, and workforce transportation is helping connect people to jobs and essential services throughout the region,” he continued. “We look forward to pursuing new funding opportunities that will continue to improve cross-county connections and expand access for residents in both communities.” In addition, Paratransit Manager Tammy Skaggs was awarded OPTA’s Milestone Award for her 30 years of service to Laketran and Lake County. Skaggs started her career as a customer service representative and progressively advanced into leadership roles overseeing Laketran’s signature paratransit service, Dial-a-Ride, and its recently launched app-based rideshare service, Rides on Demand. Officials noted that her innovative approach has modernized Laketran’s scheduling technology, improved service reliability, and strengthened support for both riders and staff. “For three decades, she’s been the person everyone can count on — always putting customers first, improving systems and mentoring the next generation of transit professionals,” Capelle said. “Her impact on our customers and team will be felt for years to come. “Often people don’t consider careers in public transit when living in the suburbs or rural communities, but we now employ over 300 residents,” he continued. “Tammy’s career is a testament that there are opportunities for job growth and development that can lead to a long, successful career, as well as the gratification of giving back to your community.” ...read more read less