Bay Town Trolley is joining other public transportation services across the country in offering free rides Thursday.
Every year, Bay County Public Transit participates in "National Dump the Pump Day," explained Lamar Hobbs, the county's transit program administrator.
“With gas prices currently on the rise, public transit provides both residents and visitors with a cost-effective alternative to explore our local community," Hobbs wrote. "Whether you are a regular or first-time rider, we hope you will leave your car behind and instead try our system free of charge this Thursday.”
Bay Town Trolley's bus routes and schedules are available online. Normally, a one-day pass costs $4 and a 31-day pass costs $35. One-way trips cost $1.50.
“National Dump the Pump Day” began in 2006 as a way to encourage people to drive less and use public transportation more.
Tallahassee’s Star Metro has offered free rides on "Dump the Pump Day" in the past, but the transit service isn’t participating in the nationwide initiative this year.
The city’s public transit system, however, regularly offers free trolley rides. The free route loops through the Midtown, CollegeTown, and Downtown areas on weekdays during lunchtime and on Friday and Saturday nights.
