“DC Kids Ride Free on Bus” Program Kicks Off for 2014-2015 School Year

Media ContactsReggie Sanders, – (202) 437-0809, reggie.sanders@dc.govMichelle Phipps-Evans – (202) 497-0124, michelle.phipps-evans@dc.gov  (Washington, DC) With the start of the new school year on Monday, August 25, District of Columbia students at public (traditional and charter) and private elementary, middle and high schools in the District of Columbia can ride on the Metrobus and the DC Circulator at no charge, Monday to Friday, from 5:30 am to 9 am, and 2 pm to 8 pm, during the regular school year. Students are encouraged today to obtain their DC One Cards, register them online, and check their eligibility before they take advantage of this service.    The Council of the District of Columbia’s legislative action in 2013 established this free program allowing DC students to travel to and from school and educational activities. Also, students can use the service when school is dismissed early, or half day, during the school week. As in the past, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is requesting that students FLASH their DC One Cards when they enter the buses during the Kids Ride Free on Bus program hours.   After 8 pm on weekdays, weekends, and holidays, students will need to purchase a 10-trip bus pass, monthly rail and bus pass or pay the regular fare during the 2014-2015 school year.    Students need to register and confirm their eligibility in the District’s School Transit Subsidy program on the DC One Card website (www.dconecard.dc.gov), before purchasing transit passes from WMATA.   For more information on the School Transit Subsidy Program, please visit DDOT’s website at www.ddot.dc.gov.