Some Athens residents will no longer have to pay to ride city buses. Effective July 1, people 65 and older, those with disabilities and ACC employees will ride Athens-Clarke County Transit fixed-route service fare-free.
According to a release from Athens-Clarke Transit, the move is an integral part of the $4 million “prosperity Package” included in the 2020 budget, which was approved on June 5th.
Mayor Kelly Girtz stated that: “Providing transit support for these additional riders adds significant value to our community. Those who have been isolated or challenged by mobility needs will be able to readily access resources throughout the community, and Athens-Clarke County employees will be able to heighten their advocacy for transit while freeing-up key parking locations.”
Proof of age, certified disability or county employment will be required for fare-free travel. Athens-Clarke County Transit will issue identification cards to qualified riders who do not have another form of government issued ID.
Transit riders in these categories are encouraged to use all previously purchased bus tickets by June 30th as they will become invalid on July 1st.