The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK) unveiled a major overhaul of its service network that will take effect this November. The agency will discontinue the Southbank Shuttle and replace it with a high‑frequency corridor that runs between downtown Newport, Covington and downtown Cincinnati.
What the new corridor means for riders
Instead of the trolley‑style shuttle, riders will travel on a fixed‑route bus that operates every seven to eight minutes. The new route follows the same corridor currently served by Route 1, which traverses much of Northern Kentucky, ensuring that existing passengers retain access to the neighborhoods they rely on.
Commuters who previously used Route 16 will now have the option of the revamped Route 1 as well as the Licking River Link, providing additional flexibility and alternative service choices.
Additional service enhancements
Beyond the corridor change, TANK announced several other adjustments aimed at improving overall frequency. Route 1 will be extended to reach Newport, and peak‑hour service on Routes 3, 7 and 12 will be increased from hourly runs to a 30‑minute interval.
These changes are part of TANK’s broader strategy to deliver more reliable, high‑frequency transit options for residents of Northern Kentucky and the greater Cincinnati area. By consolidating routes and boosting service intervals, the agency hopes to attract new riders, reduce car dependency, and support local economic activity.
Community response
Local leaders and community members have expressed cautious optimism. Newport Mayor Mike Miller noted that the new corridor could spur downtown development and make it easier for families to access jobs and schools across the river. Covington City Council member Sarah Henderson added that the increased frequency aligns with the city’s goals for sustainable growth and reduced traffic congestion.
Transportation advocates praised the move, citing the importance of frequent, reliable bus service in suburban‑urban corridors. However, some longtime users of the Southbank Shuttle voiced concerns about the loss of the trolley‑style experience, urging TANK to consider preserving elements of the shuttle’s branding in the new bus fleet.
Looking ahead
TANK plans to monitor ridership patterns closely after the November rollout and will adjust service levels as needed. The agency also indicated that future investments could include additional high‑frequency corridors and potential upgrades to bus shelters and real‑time arrival information.
For now, the focus remains on delivering a smoother, more dependable transit experience for the residents of Northern Kentucky and the neighboring Cincinnati region.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
