Why we do it:

Busses and trains get people to work, doctor appointments, or to visit family when other options break down. They reduce traffic, allow cities to re-green parking strips, and minimize environmental pollution. Despite all this, only a few cities have transit well-developed enough that people who can afford cars routinely skip them. To get there, we need saturation: enough busses and trains, running on a frequent enough schedule, that if you miss your bus the next one will be along in ten minutes.

And that takes critical mass. The best way to move there quickly would be to make transit free for everyone. Until then, one way we can support struggling neighbors while working towards a world with better options for everyone is to subsidize someone’s bus pass: buy a monthly pass for someone struggling to make ends meet. Donate a month’s mobility to a community college group or a women’s shelter. Help make transit accessible now, and better tomorrow.

And the next time public transit is on the ballot, remember this: every person who chooses transit reduces congestion. Even if you’d never ride, making the bus open to all help you.