The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and North County Transit District (NCTD) will offer free rides to commuters on Wednesday in light of “Free Ride Day”.
The agencies announced that all MTS and NCTD services are on Oct. 5, including the Trolley, COASTER, SPRINTER, and fixed-route busses. Free Ride Day takes place in conjunction with California’s Clean Air Day, which encourages residents to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
Passengers will not need a PRONTO card or valid fare for either system during Free Ride Day. MTS and NCTD services will operate on a normal weekday schedule.
Both Free Ride Day and California’s Clean Air Day occur during the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) Rideshare week, which runs from Oct. 3 to Oct. 9, encouraging commuters to rideshare for clean air through carpooling, biking, walking, or riding public transit.
"As we see MTS ridership rebound following the pandemic, we hope Free Ride Day is an opportunity for more people to give transit a try," said Nathan Fletcher, MTS Board Chair and Chair, San Diego County Board of Supervisors in a statement. "Not only do we want riders to see how transit can benefit them personally, but on Free Ride Day, San Diegans have the opportunity to join the clean air movement across the state of California. Taking transit is one of the most impactful ways individuals can help combat climate change."
Free Ride Day has occurred annually since 2018. The agencies noted that ridership increased by 30% during previous Ride Day events.
"We're fortunate in our region to have public transit systems that access so much of the County," said Jewel Edson, NCTD Board Chair and Solana Beach City Councilmember. "By offering free rides on October 5, we hope folks will leave their cars at home for the day and try transit. It's important for our community and for our air quality that we embrace transit and see how it can fit into our daily commute."
To plan a trip in transit, visit the MTS or NCTD website and use the Trip Planner tool.
