Rep. Sweeney Named Legislator of the Year by Ohio Public Transit Association

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Public Transit Association (OPTA) has named State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Westlake) its 2025 Legislator of the Year. The award recognizes Rep. Sweeney’s leadership in securing historic investments for public transit that strengthen Ohio’s workforce and support working families.

As Ranking Member of the House Finance Committee, Rep. Sweeney worked with OPTA to deliver the largest-ever state investment in public transportation, ensuring more Ohioans can get to work, school, and essential services while also supporting job creation and economic growth.

“When we make it easier for Ohioans to get to work or make it more affordable to head downtown for a Guardians game, it improves our quality of life and grows the economy,” said Rep. Sweeney. “When we invest in public transit, we are investing in the workers and businesses that form the backbone of Ohio’s economy. I am proud to have fought for a Transportation Budget that makes smart, strategic investments to strengthen Ohio’s infrastructure and support our workforce for years to come. I’m honored that OPTA recognizes how important this work is for the future of our state.”

House Bill 54, the Ohio Transportation Budget, makes significant progress toward addressing the state’s unmet public transportation needs by appropriating nearly $200M for public transit, including $30M to continue the Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership Program.

Rep. Sweeney represents Ohio’s 16th House District, which includes Westlake, Bay Village, Fairview Park, Rocky River, and parts of Cleveland. She serves as the Ranking Member on the House Finance Committee, helping craft Ohio’s $60B budget.