STAR Transit offers free rides to polling locations for Dallas, Kaufman, and Rockwall County residents
Dallas County, Texas – STAR Transit has confirmed it will offer free round-trip trips to polling locations for Dallas County, Kaufman County, and Rockwall County residents in an effort to increase voter turnout. Available both on Election Day and during the early voting period, this program seeks to make it easier for residents for their voting rights free from transportation’s limitations.
STAR Transit will provide free weekday transit across its whole service area from Monday, October 21, through Friday, November 1, to accommodate individuals wishing to vote early. To serve Saturday, October 26 weekend voters, Balch Springs, Mesquite, and Terrell will provide an extra service. The service guarantees that every member of the community has the chance to vote, so it spans Election Day on Tuesday, November 5.
Tommy Henricks, Executive Director of STAR Transit, emphasized the importance of this service.
“We’re proud to support our community and offer free rides to vote,” said Henricks. “Regardless of your political affiliation, we want to empower our community members to make their voices heard by casting a ballot.”
Voters can take advantage of this free service on any of STAR Transit’s options, including Demand Response, Fixed Routes, and the STARNow app. Passengers must either use the code Vote2024 on the STARNow app or tell the bus operator or scheduling agent they are heading to and from the polling locations to use the free ride.
Rides are subject to availability within the STAR Transit service areas and STARNow zones and are first come, first served based. This offer is designed specifically for voters heading to and from polling places, therefore guaranteeing that the service is used just for voting.
Voters are urged to phone STAR Transit at least 30 minutes before their intended trip time in order to arrange a free ride. Scheduling agents are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, at (877) 631-5278. Those choosing to utilize the STARNow app can download and simply book rides.
This project by STAR Transit is a component of a larger endeavor to eliminate barriers that can keep voters from reaching polling sites, therefore facilitating a more inclusive and participatory voting system. Offering free trips, STAR Transit not only helps with voting procedures but also encourages civic participation in the areas it serves.