The "What Drives You" campaign by MCDOT's Ride On has just wrapped up its March Madness contest, revealing the diverse stories from its community of riders. For Leonard, a local since the late '70s, Ride On is more than just a transit service—it's a connection to his father's legacy and a lifeline to the world around him. "Believe it or not, my late father drove buses for Ride On in 1978, so I developed an interest in Ride On," Leonard told the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT). His story highlights public transportation's role in anchoring generations within a community.
For Johmar, a recent transplant hailing from South America, Ride On represents the promise of a new beginning. "The buses are always clean and user-friendly, which is a nice change compared to the buses in our home country," he explained to MCDOT. Transitioning to life in Montgomery County, the ease and accessibility of Ride On have become essential for Johmar and his family as they navigate their new surroundings.
Meanwhile, winner Susana embodies the transformational power of reliable transportation. "Ride On didn't just provide me a ride, it gave me hope, improved my access to opportunities, and restored my sense of independence," she shared with MCDOT. Her experience touches upon public transit's critical role for those with limited resources.
And it's not just individual riders who reap the benefits. Kellie, a school health tech, utilizes the Ride On Real Time app to make her daily commutes more efficient within Montgomery County's denser neighborhoods. Ride On's adaptability and technological integration are both conveniences and vital tools for day-to-day operations for community members like Kellie.
Each of the winning entries from the "What Drives You" contest received a prize package that included a $50 Visa gift card, a "What Drives You" t-shirt, and an assortment of Ride On giveaways, adding a layer of tangible appreciation to the riders' intangible contributions.
