Metro waives all fares on Election Day, Nov. 3

Hamilton County riders can board any Metro bus for free on Tuesday, Nov. 3, Election Day.

The transit agency announced Oct. 22 that it will waive fares across all three of its services: fixed-route buses, Access paratransit and MetroNow! on-demand. The goal, Metro said, is to remove transportation as a barrier for voters heading to the polls.

"Every voice matters, and transportation should never be a barrier to civic participation," said Brandy Jones, Metro's chief communications and marketing officer.

Fixed-route buses will run their regular schedules. Access paratransit will provide door-to-door rides for eligible individuals with disabilities. MetroNow!, the agency's on-demand service, will operate fare-free within its five designated zones.

Springdale and Sharonville riders get on-demand option

One of those MetroNow! zones covers Springdale and Sharonville, giving residents there a free on-demand ride to their polling place or a connection to a fixed bus route. MetroNow! provides coverage if it is within the service zone, according to Metro's service page. The Springdale/Sharonville zone was selected in part to improve access to health care facilities in the area, Metro has said.

Riders in the zone must book trips through the MetroNow! app or by calling 513-551-5555. Unlike fixed-route buses, MetroNow! does not operate on a set schedule. Riders request a pickup, and the service connects them to destinations within the zone or to a Metro fixed route.

Evendale and Woodlawn residents who live along a fixed bus route can also ride at no cost.

How to plan your trip

For fixed-route buses, Metro recommends downloading the Transit app to plan a route and track buses in real time. The app shows stop locations and arrival times. Access requires prior eligibility approval and a reservation. Access reservations are available at 513-531-8888.

Metro busses operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. during weekdays. Riders who need MetroNow! for an evening trip to the polls should confirm availability through the app or by phone beforehand.