What a year it has been for All Aboard Ohio! As we reflect on 2024, we’re proud of the progress we’ve made in our mission to advocate for improved transportation choices in Ohio. Building on the excitement of the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Corridor ID 3C+D announcement, we’ve grown our network, strengthened partnerships, and deepened our engagement with communities across the state.

One of the year’s key highlights was our involvement in the FRA’s Long-Distance Study, where we facilitated public outreach to gather valuable input on the future of long-distance passenger rail. We received over a thousand submissions from cities across Ohio, and the two long distance routes through Ohio were among the most supported! We will continue to advocate on the national level to bring these routes into existence. Meanwhile, back in Ohio, our updated strategic plan has provided a clear vision for how we’ll continue advocating for a connected and sustainable transportation future.

Our chapters played a critical role in fostering community engagement and awareness throughout the year. From field trips to Chicago and Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad excursions to behind-the-scenes tours of the Cincinnati Streetcar and RTA facilities, we’ve brought people closer to the systems that shape their daily lives. This year also saw the launch of a new chapter in Dayton, while our Columbus Chapter deepened its collaboration with Transit Columbus to tackle urban mobility challenges. Join your local chapter at one of our regular meetings!

2024 also brought momentum to key transit projects like Issue 47 and the LinkUS initiative, which promise to transform Central Ohio’s connectivity. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) developments in Cincinnati and Cleveland further highlighted the growing demand for efficient, high-capacity transit options across the state. These efforts were bolstered by our Whistle Stop Tour, where we partnered with local governments to engage directly with communities. The tour’s standout moment came in Crestline, where 400 attendees gathered to discuss the future of passenger rail in Ohio.

This year’s Annual Meeting was another highlight, featuring Amtrak’s Vice President of Network Development, Nicole Bucich, as one of our keynote speakers. Her insights into Amtrak’s vision for the future inspired attendees and reinforced the importance of regional and national collaboration. On the regional front, we proudly represented Ohio at the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC) Conference in Minnesota, working alongside advocates and policymakers to advance a vision for rail across the Midwest.

In 2024, we welcomed new board members whose diverse expertise will help us navigate the challenges ahead. Additionally, leadership transitions brought fresh energy to our organization. We welcomed John Esterly as our new Executive Director, and I (Mitch Radakovich) assumed the role of Board Chair. Speaking of, I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to former chair, Erin Rosiello, for her incredible leadership and vision.

Finally, 2024 marked a transformative year for our public image with a complete rebranding, a new website launch, and revamped Merch Store. These efforts, coupled with an enhanced social media presence and partnerships with influencers, have helped us reach a broader audience and inspire more people to join the movement for better transit. We have even been recognized by influencers like CityNerd and TheTransitGuy!

As we look ahead to 2025, we’re grateful for the passion and dedication of our members, partners, and supporters who made this year such a success. Together, we’re paving the way for a brighter, more connected Ohio. Here’s to the journey ahead!