Facing rising operational costs and potential constraints on future public funding, the Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky, also known as TANK, is working to identify new, sustainable operating models.
Northern Kentucky University and TANK, announced a new partnership aimed at reimagining the future of public mobility in Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties. Through a multidisciplinary student project, “NKU Econ Games: The TANK Challenge,” NKU students in economics, finance, artificial intelligence, public administration and business will be challenged to design ideas for a financially sustainable and equitable mobility network from the ground up.
“Public transit is essential to thousands of Northern Kentuckians who rely on it to access work, healthcare and other essential services,” said Gina Douthat, general manager of TANK. “For many years, our counties have supported public transit responsibly and generously, and we are deeply grateful for that partnership. As costs continue to rise both here at home and nationally, we must reimagine a model that protects transit-dependent riders while ensuring long-term sustainability. This collaboration with NKU, supported by our board, reflects our shared commitment to innovation and to strengthening our region’s economic future.”
NKU students will conduct rider interviews, analyze community survey data and apply financial and AI modeling to propose ideas for new revenue streams, route strategies and operating efficiencies.
“This partnership allows our students to learn by doing. Not only is student involvement central to the project, but it aligns perfectly with NKU’s applied learning mission,” said NKU President, Cady Short Thompson. “This project puts learning into action while making a significant regional impact.”
