By James F. Hale
Special to the Messenger

After the commuter train ceased operation between Columbus and Grove City, various bus companies moved into the picture and in 1923, the Columbus-Grove City Bus Company was providing transportation to Columbus. The bus was easy to spot because of its dark blue color.

Some of the other early bus companies were Midwest Transportation, Columbus and Southern Ohio Electric, Columbus Celina Bus Line and Lincoln Village Transit. Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) first provided temporary service to Grove City beginning in 1974 before regular local routes were approved.

Before the temporary service started, a public meeting was held at city hall with about 100 residents in attendance; COTA representatives failed to attend. Regardless, bus service began and Mayor Michael T. Brandt and City Administrator Ron Huber were among the first local residents to ride a COTA bus.

More information about Grove City and Southwest Franklin County history can be found at www.swfchs.org.