Local Government Free "Try Transit Day" Set for April 22 & 25

BRADENTON — Seldom is anything free, but this April 22 and 25, MCAT passengers can keep their money in their pocket and travel anywhere in the MCAT network for free. It is a promotion for Manatee and Sarasota travelers to experiment with alternative modes at no cost to the rider.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District One Commuter Services is promoting April 22, 2015 as "Try Transit Day," and asking all transit agencies to participate. 

Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) is participating by offering free rides Saturday April 25, to the beaches, but will honor MCAT riders on interline transit routes that day. Also, SCAT will honor MCAT riders on April 22. This gives regional travelers two days to experiment with regional bus travel.

FDOT's purpose is not limited to encouraging those in cars to try buses, but for all travelers to try different ways to get around the area through the month of April, which is National County Government month.

Throughout the month of April, FDOT is encouraging counties in District One to coax travelers to explore all alternative modes available; bikes, car-pools and on occasions walking.

FDOT is hoping to better improve air quality, reduce energy consumption and traffic congestion, and promote better health and fitness. 

At Tuesday's meeting, MCAT asked the Board of County Commission to approve Resolution R-15-038, allowing 'free ridership' at an estimate's cost to taxpayers, of less that $4500. Commissioners voted to approve the Resolution 6-0; Commissioner Smith was absent.