Only 15 days remain before Ohio’s midterm elections, and Central State University students in Greene County face a new voting reality. The Greene County Board of Elections has moved the campus’s polling location from the historic walk‑across US‑42 to Wilberforce University to the Xenia Grace Chapel, a site about a ten‑minute drive from campus.
Longer trips, but a community solution
For many students, the change means a six‑mile round‑trip to cast an in‑person ballot. “A lot of people are not fortunate to have transportation,” senior Damari Lipscomb, a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, explained. “Walking over to Wilberforce was a great thing to do, so I think a lot of people are very worried about voting, especially not having transportation.”
Free rides organized by the Ohio Black Legislative Caucus
Recognizing the barrier, the Ohio Black Legislative Caucus stepped in to provide free rides to the polls. Lipscomb said his fraternity is actively promoting the service and encouraging fellow students to take advantage of the transportation assistance.
Students who need a ride can request one through a link provided by WHIO‑TV. The service aims to ensure that lack of a personal vehicle does not prevent eligible voters from exercising their constitutional right to vote.
Broader context of polling‑site changes
This shift mirrors similar challenges faced by college students elsewhere. Earlier this month, a university in North Carolina saw student protests after its polling site was eliminated, highlighting a growing concern over accessibility for young voters.
Local election officials stress that the new site complies with state regulations and offers a secure environment for casting ballots. While the distance is longer, the venue provides ample parking and is fully staffed on election day.
How to vote
Eligible voters must present a valid photo ID and their voter registration card at the Xenia Grace Chapel polling place. Early voting options remain unchanged, and absentee ballot requests continue to be processed through the county’s online portal.
Students are encouraged to verify their registration status ahead of time and to plan their travel, whether by personal vehicle, ride‑share, or the free‑ride program.
What’s next
With the election deadline fast approaching, campus organizations are ramping up voter‑education efforts. Central State’s student government plans to host informational sessions on voting procedures and the importance of civic participation, reinforcing the community’s commitment to robust voter turnout.
For more details on the free‑ride service, visit the WHIO‑TV website or contact the Ohio Black Legislative Caucus directly.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
