November 7, 2025

Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) announced that Licking County Transit is the Mary Jane McDonald Building a Healthier Community Award recipient for 2025.  The organization is owned, operated, and governed by the citizens of Licking County through the Licking County Board of Commissioners.  The Licking Memorial Hospital (LMH) Development Council created the Building a Heathier Community Award in 2005 to honor a group or organization in Licking County with an ongoing work or project that reflects LMHS’ mission to improve the health of the community.  It was renamed the Mary Jane McDonald Building a Heathier Community Award in 2018. 
 
Mary Jane was a member of the LMH Board of Directors from 1981 to 1987, and a member of the LMHS Board of Directors from 1988 to 1999.  She was elected as the first female Chair of the LMHS Board in 1991 and received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.  Mary Jane dedicated her time and talents to enriching the lives of countless Licking County residents through her charitable and selfless acts of volunteerism.
 
Public ownership enables Licking County Transit to remain closely aligned with community priorities, adapt responsively to change, and maintain a focus on service rather than profit.  By engaging local voices in decision-making processes, Licking County Transit creates a more inclusive and effective transportation network.  Transportation has been a critical issue in Licking County for some time. 
 
“To improve the health of the community, residents must have transportation to obtain proper medical care, find employment, and acquire needed groceries and supplies,” explained LMHS President & CEO Rob Montagnese.  “Removing the barrier of lack of transportation improves the quality of life for those living in Licking County.  We are honored to continue to partner with Licking County Transit as they provide access to more areas of the county.”   
 
In July 2023, Licking County Transit began offering fixed-route services.  The first route, sponsored by LMHS, travels east to west along Main Street in Newark with stops at core commercial and residential corridors.  The route improved access to employment, retail, medical facilities, and civic institutions.  A second route along 21st Street in Newark was soon added, and now there are three more routes offering services to Granville, Hebron, and Buckeye Lake.  Each expansion phase has been researched through data, public feedback, and a network of support partners, ensuring that new services reflect community priorities.
 
In 2024, Licking County Transit provided over 108,000 rides, a significant increase compared to prior years and a testament to the growing reliance and trust in the system.  On average, approximately 110 residents use the system daily, demonstrating both the consistent demand and crucial role that Licking County Transit plays in the lives of county residents.  Populations that most benefit from Licking County Transit include seniors, individuals with disabilities, youth, veterans, and low-income families.