Area Drivers Encouraged to "Dump the Pump" and Take Transit on June 20

Transit riders can save more than $13,000 per year just by using public transit instead of driving.1 Over a 10-year period, that adds up to more than $100,000 in savings. Citizens for Modern Transit – in conjunction with Metro Transit and St. Clair County Transit District – is therefore encouraging drivers to “Dump the Pump” and give transit a try on National Dump the Pump Day on Thursday, June 20, 2024. Those new to public transit can get a free monthly transit pass while supplies last by registering at www.cmt-stl.org.

Street teams from partnering organizations will also be at the Grand MetroLink and MetroBus stops – as well as the Fairview Heights Transit Center – on June 20. These representatives will be handing out 100 Grand candy bars to thank transit riders for dumping the pump and to remind them of the many benefits of taking transit.

“With 38 MetroLink stations and 59 MetroBus routes, thousands are already taking transit to get where they need to go and through this campaign we are looking to increase new ridership,” commented Kim Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “Those with personal vehicles can park at any of the 21 free, Park-Ride lots at MetroLink stations on both sides of the river to avoid traffic and save on gas and parking costs when heading to work, school, games and entertainment venues.”

The “Dump the Pump” campaign is part of the partnering organizations’ ongoing efforts to interact with riders, strengthen relationships and reinforce their collective commitment to a safe, comfortable, customer-focused transit experience. To learn more, visit www.cmt-stl.org.

1 American Public Transit Association

About Citizens for Modern Transit

Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) is the region’s transit advocacy organization. It was established in 1985 to help bring light rail to St. Louis and works to develop, support and enhance programming and initiatives to ensure safe, convenient and affordable access to the region’s integrated public transportation system. CMT champions, challenges, encourages and advocates for public transit in an effort to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life in the St. Louis region.

About Metro Transit

Metro Transit operates the St. Louis region’s public transportation system, which includes 24 battery electric buses and 237 clean-burning diesel buses that serve 59 MetroBus routes in eastern Missouri and southwestern Illinois. Metro also operates MetroLink light rail vehicles on 46 miles of track serving 38 stations in the two-state area, and operates Metro Call-A-Ride, a paratransit fleet of 123 vans. Metro Transit is a Bi-State Development enterprise.

About St. Clair County Transit District

Founded in 1981, St. Clair County Transit District oversees 11 MetroLink stations and 18 bus routes in St. Clair County, Ill. If commuters have questions about service, they can call (618) 628-8090 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, visit www.scctd.org.