Residents in Richmond can get a ride to the polls for free on Election Day. The GRTC Bus System won’t be charging fares on November 5th.
The free fares will apply to any bus routes within Richmond city limits. That includes the Pulse rapid transit and GRTC’s CARE service, which provides rides to people with disabilities.
In a video touting the free bus service on election day, Mayor Levar Stoney urged residents, regardless of political affiliation, to go out and vote.
“We want to increase access to the ballot box by removing the barrier of transportation, and it’s critical that your voice is heard,” Stoney said.
This will be the second year GRTC will offer free rides in Richmond on election day. The city reimbursed the bus system for around $25,000 last year for lost revenue.
Newly hired GRTC CEO Julie Timm said in a statement Tuesday that the GRTC network has more than 400 bus stops within a short walk of a polling place.
“GRTC connects with nearly every single polling location in the City of Richmond,” Timm said. “We are pleased to partner again this year with the city on fare-free Election Day rides.”
You can plan the best route to your polling location here.