JONESBORO – The City of Jonesboro officially launched a new era in public transportation Wednesday as Mayor Harold Copenhaver unveiled the city’s newly branded GOJO Transit System during the annual State of the City address hosted by the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The unveiling marks a major milestone for the city’s transit system, celebrating 20 years of service, transitioning from the former JET (Jonesboro Economical Transportation) system to a modernized, forward-thinking transit network designed to support Jonesboro’s continued growth to Destination 100k.
City officials say the launch signals a major step forward for transportation in Jonesboro as the city continues to grow.
“With these additional resources — new bus shelters, in-shelter technology, and the Let’s GOJO app — this is going to allow the growing population of Jonesboro quick and efficient access to our public transit system,” stated Lee Wells, the City of Jonesboro’s Director of Transportation.
Since 2006, the city’s public transportation system has been known as JET. The updated GOJO brand reflects a modern, connected city and enhanced transit experience for residents, visitors and students.
“The name GOJO suggests a city on the move,” said Mayor Harold Copenhaver, “and that’s exactly what Jonesboro is — ALWAYS MOVING!”
A Transit System Designed for the Future
The improvements are part of federal transportation investments secured through the U.S. Department of Transportation. The funding allows the city to add new transit vehicles in the coming years, including additional trolleys and buses, complementing the city’s existing trolley and paratransit fleet that provides accessible transportation across the community.
But the transformation goes far beyond vehicles.
Officials say the new GOJO system will make public transportation more accessible, safer and more connected for the entire community.
“This is incredibly exciting for Jonesboro,” Wells said. “Our transit system is now more than just affordable transportation. Riders will see more routes, more connections and better access across the city. Connectivity is key as Jonesboro continues to grow.”
Smarter Stops & Better Rider Experience
More than 40 bus stops across the city will be equipped with modern bus shelters designed to improve safety, comfort and accessibility for riders. The new bus shelters feature:
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Digital monitors with real-time vehicle route tracking
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LED lighting systems that illuminate with the color that matches the approaching route
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Durable shelter materials designed to increase the lifespan of the bus shelter
Introducing the “Let’s GOJO” Transit App
The City of Jonesboro has launched “Let’s GOJO,” the official GOJO transit mobile app, designed to make navigating the city’s transit system simple, accessible and convenient for all riders.
Let’s GOJO allows residents and visitors to navigate Jonesboro using the GOJO fleet of buses and trolleys while providing real-time information directly on their smartphone.
Whether riders are heading to work, class, appointments, a sporting event or exploring the city, the app places the transit bus system in the palm of their hand with features such as real-time tracking, route and stop finder, schedules and service alerts and more.
Strong Partnership with A-State
A key component of the system’s connectivity is the continued partnership with Arkansas State University. This public-private partnership between the City of Jonesboro and A-State provides transit rides to A-State students, faculty and staff at no cost to the rider.
Additionally, the Red Wolves Express provides convenient transportation for riders during A-State home football games. The low-cost service transports fans directly to the stadium from both free downtown city parking and campus parking.
Rolling Out the GOJO Features
While the public unveiling marked the beginning of the transition, officials say the rollout will take several months as new buses, routes and technology are introduced.
City leaders say the result will be a transit system designed not just for today’s Jonesboro, but for the city’s continued growth and connectivity of the future.
For more information, visit https://letsgo.jonesboroar.gov/
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