MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)— Marion Area Transit (MAT) is charting a new course with the appointment of its new Director, Julie Welch. Known in Marion for her previous role as an Insurance Senior Account executive and her involvement in numerous service organizations, Welch is eager to bring her expertise to MAT.
“I believe in giving back to the community and being a positive influence for growth,” states Welch. “This opportunity is a way for me to utilize my connections and people skills to make MAT a valuable asset to the citizens of Marion.”
MAT, a Public Service within the City of Marion, provides curb-to-curb, demand response transit bus service, along with an enhanced service bus at a higher fare. All their services are open to the General Public. MAT’s mission is to provide safe, reliable, efficient public transportation to the community. The service is operated by The City of Marion and funded in part by The Ohio Department of Transportation and the Federal Transit Administration.

Welch has big plans for MAT. “MAT has been the same for many years but is prime for expanding services and partnering with area companies and community organizations to meet people’s transportation needs,” she says. “I want to see MAT be a valuable part of Marion’s growth and success by providing efficient, dependable, and affordable transportation for the public.”
Welch is committed to serving the public by being responsive to growing needs. She plans to actively seek grant opportunities and other funding sources and will work in partnership with United Way’s Transportation Coalition to develop transportation solutions.
Welch believes that her new role is a divine appointment and is excited for the future. “I believe in Marion, and I love this city. Serving is in my DNA, and I look forward to serving the public in a practical and meaningful way.”
Marion Area Transit is located at 137 South State Street, Marion, Ohio. They can be reached at 740-382-9850, Fax (740) 382-1623, and TTY 1-800-750-0750 (For the Hearing Impaired).
