In a nod to environmental preservation and civic celebration, Montgomery County is marking the 55th anniversary of Earth Day by offering commuters a cost-free journey aboard its Ride On buses, including the Ride On extRa, Ride On Flex, and Flash Bus Rapid Transit systems. This initiative, which aligns with Earth Day 2025's theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," is one of several measures that the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is implementing in the hope of encouraging sustainable transportation habits among its residents.
"By choosing to walk, bike or take public transportation, you are helping to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion, as well as saving money and improving your health," Montgomery County Executive Elrich articulated in a statement. He further emphasized the local government's commitment to expanding access to public transit through innovative solutions such as Flash BRT and Ride On Flex, as well as by improving infrastructure to better accommodate cyclists and pedestrians. This gesture, of free fare, is Montgomery County's invitation to its residents to celebrate Earth Day by making choices beneficial to the planet.
The free rides will be available next Tuesday, the anniversary of Earth Day, which began in 1970 and has since burgeoned into a global movement to nurture and protect our shared environment. Alongside this fare-free service, MCDOT offers a Ride On Trip Planner app that aids commuters in scheduling trips, which features a mix of ride-sharing options, metro schedules, and bike-share locations to facilitate smooth, eco-friendly travel choices.
For those interested in the on-demand service Ride On Flex, which operates in specific areas during weekdays, information and the necessary application are readily available for download from usual app stores, offering another convenient transit alternative. The Flash BRT, known for its high-frequency service and customer-friendly amenities like USB charging ports and expedited boarding, serves as a modern hallmark of Montgomery County's transit overhaul, MCDOT Director Chris Conklin told the county's news portal. Encouraging this burgeoning ridership represents a cornerstone in MCDOT's strategy to re-imagine transit for a more connected and sustainable future.
In alignment with Earth Day's vision for increased reliance on renewable energy sources, Montgomery County is actively promoting these public transit options to foster a culture of sustainability among its citizens. Conklin expressed optimism about increasing public transit users, citing a 20% growth in ridership over the past fiscal year. This trend aligns with the goals outlined in the "Ride On Reimagined" study, which aims to revamp the county's transit system with improved speed and reliability, extending to an increasing number of areas.
