FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Free Transit Supports Expanding Access, Promotes Sustainability
BALTIMORE, MD (April 15, 2026) – In recognition of Earth Day, the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) will offer free transit rides to reinforce the essential role public transit plays in connecting communities, expanding access and supporting a more sustainable future. On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, all Local Bus, Light Rail, Metro Subway, Commuter Bus, MARC Train and Mobility service will operate at no charge to riders.
“I encourage everyone to join us in celebrating Earth Day by riding for free on the state's transit system,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Katie Thomson. “Sit back, relax and enjoy the view out the window of springtime in Maryland. The Moore-Miller Administration continues to make significant investments in transit to improve operations, reliability and help reach our climate goals.”
The MTA encourages travelers to leave their cars at home, reduce traffic congestion, and help lower greenhouse gas emissions. Riders can easily plan their bus or train trips by visiting mta.maryland.gov or using the Transit app for route maps, schedule information and service alerts.
“Earth Day is a reminder that how we choose to get around can have a big impact on our environment,” said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “By offering free rides for Earth Day, we want to encourage more people to experience the ease and convenience of transit as an everyday travel option.”
In addition to expanding access to jobs, healthcare and recreation, transit provides significant environmental benefits. According to the Transit Cooperative Research Program Research Report 226, a typical trip on transit emits 55% fewer greenhouse emissions than driving or ridesharing.
The Maryland Transit Administration is one of the largest multi-modal transit systems in the United States, and operates local and commuter buses, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC Train Service, and a comprehensive Mobility paratransit system. The goal of the Maryland Transit Administration is to provide safe, efficient, and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. To learn more, visit mta.maryland.gov, check us out on Facebook or YouTube and follow us on Twitter/X and Bluesky Social.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Courtney Mims
Office: 410-767-8367
Cell: 667-392-0157
cmims@mdot.maryland.gov
Paul Shepard
Office: 410-767-3935
Cell: 443-622-4181
pshepard@mdot.maryland.gov
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