In October 2006, Stark Area Regional Transit Authority was recognized as the “Most Outstanding Public Transportation System” in the United States for agencies of similar size. This prestigious national award is given annually by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) to public transportation systems that have demonstrated achievement in efficiency and effectiveness in deploying transit services, communication, safety, adhering to FTA and DOT rules and regulations, promoting minority interest in both hiring practices and contracts.

The most Outstanding Public Transportation System of the Year award could not have come at a better time and a more crowning feat with SARTA celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2007. On December 1, 1997 the Canton Regional Transit Authority (CRTA) following the successful passage of a sales tax levy which replaced Canton RTA’s property tax, began operation as the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA). According to the RCW, establishing SARTA as Stark County’s mobility provider, the agency would provide service to all of Stark County, Ohio.

As SARTA service and demand for transit grew, it became evident that satellite offices were needed to better serve the county's mobility needs. SARTA established three Transit Centers and customer service offices in strategic locations throughout Stark County. The Alliance Transfer Center serves the northeast quadrant of the county, while Massillon and Canton Transit Centers serves the southwest quadrant and Canton respectively.

Today, SARTA employs over 210 individuals with the following classifications: 62% Coach Operators, 10% Mechanics and Service Personnel servicing over ninety three vehicles, 26% Administrative Staff and a few part-time employees and/or externs. 

SARTA’s organizational structure begins with the public as its foundation. This has been emphasized by the agency in our mission statement and Five Bold Steps:

     Mission: The purpose of Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) is to provide safe,
     responsive and efficient transportation for all citizens of Stark County.

     Board-directed "Five Bold Steps"
        Operate Within Budget
        Build High-Quality Staff And Board
        Grow Ridership
        Maximize Financial Flexibility
        Build Public Support
 
In addition to providing rides to passengers, SARTA is very involved in Stark County’s community activities by actively participating in numerous community events. These include participating in public outreach with all Canton City Schools fifth grade classes, Senior Fairs, community interaction meetings and rider education, Hall of Fame, Stark County Fair, events promoting public transportation, and “Don't Drink & Drive” New Year’s campaigns.

SARTA also supports dozens of community groups through advertising, including providing special event transportation to many community events whenever necessary. SARTA employees have raised funds and food donations for causes such as, Harvest for Hunger, participate in a neighborhood picnic, contribute to a community-based fundraiser, while providing information outlets through staffed booths at festivals and fairs. As part of the emergency preparedness group, SARTA stands ready to provide evacuation and mobility assistance in the case of an emergency in Stark County and has done so on numerous occasions including when there was a flood in Canton in 2003.