For the first time, the Central Ohio Transit Authority will offer free bus fares for all customers on Election Day.
The COTA board voted unanimously Wednesday to offer free fares to bus riders on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
The organization says it wants to improve access to polling places this coming election. Although the move is aimed at voters, anyone who wishes may ride the bus for free that day.
“The action taken by our board today reflects COTA’s organization-wide commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion," said COTA president Joanna Pinkerton in a press release. “Mobility should not be a barrier to a better quality of life, and that includes exercising the right to vote. This will be a great benefit to the community.”
According to COTA spokesman Jeff Pullin, it will be the fourth transit authority in the state to offer free rides on Election Day.
The board also authorized free fares for all veterans and active military members on Veterans Day, November 11. It has offered free transportation on this day for several years.
