RTA Rapid Transit ()

The Cleveland Rapid Transit (RTA) rapid transit system, the cornerstone of Greater Cleveland's public transportation, began operations on March 15, 1955, ushering in a new era of rapid transit services for the city. The system currently consists of a total of four service lines: one rapid transit rail line and three light rail lines. Three rail lines share their tracks at the Tri-C-Campus District and East 55th stations. It is quite unusual for light and heavy rail trains to share the same route. Shared stations have combined platforms of two heights to accommodate two types of trains. And both types of trains use the same maintenance facility as they both use the same track gauge and the same source of power (overhead catenary). The RTA rapid transit system has a total of 47 stations. The stations are completely or partially within the city limits of Cleveland, Shaker Heights, East Cleveland, and Brook Park. Seamlessly integrated with a comprehensive bus network and featuring innovative services like Healthline BRT, RTA rapid transit remains a lifeline for riders, supporting community development and economic vitality in Greater Cleveland.

OperatorGreater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority
Operation start25 October 1859
Total Lines4 Metro Lines
Total Station48 Active Stations
Metro City/CountryCleveland United States
Official Webhttps://www.riderta.com/

Metro linesStationsTerminal stations
▣ Red Line18Airport station ⇄ Louis Stokes Station at Windermere
▣ Blue Line18Tower City ⇄ Warrensville–Van Aken
▣ Green Line18Tower City ⇄ Green Road
▣ Waterfront Line7South Harbor ⇄ Tower City

  • The Cleveland Rapid Transit (RTA) system, also known as RTA Rapid Transit, officially opened on March 15, 1955, marking the beginning of rapid transit services in the Greater Cleveland area.
  • The Red Line is one of the primary routes of RTA rapid transit, connecting Cleveland Hopkins International Airport to the Louis Stokes station in Windermere.
  • The Waterfront Line is a unique addition to the system, offering scenic views of the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie, connecting Tower City Station to South Harbor Station.
  • The Blue Line and Green Line serve the eastern and western suburbs, respectively, providing passengers with essential connections to downtown Cleveland.
  • Some RTA rapid transit stations, such as Tower City–Public Square, hold historical significance and showcase the city's architectural heritage.
  • RTA Rapid Transit is seamlessly integrated with the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority's extensive bus network, offering passengers convenient transfers between transit modes.
  • Healthline, a bus rapid transit (BRT) system, is a notable feature of the RTA, providing a dedicated corridor along Euclid Avenue and connecting major institutions and neighborhoods.
  • Tower City Center serves as a central hub for RTA rapid transit, where various lines meet, providing connections, shopping, and access to city attractions.
  • RTA offers park-n-ride facilities at various stations, facilitating passengers who prefer to park their cars and use rapid transit for the remainder of their trip.
  • RTA rapid transit plays a vital role in supporting the region's economy and community development by providing reliable and accessible transportation options for residents and visitors.