Asheville Reporter

The City of Asheville, in collaboration with Strive Beyond and the Land of Sky Regional Council, is set to provide free transit on May 13, 2024, as part of Strive Not to Drive Week. Passengers utilizing Asheville Rides Transit (ART) public transportation routes on that day will not need to pay bus fare, as a gesture to promote alternative transportation methods.

In a statement, the City of Asheville urged the public to make the most of this opportunity by stating, "We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity!"

Alongside the free bus fare initiative, a travel training event will be organized on the same day by Strive Beyond and AARP. This event aims to offer practical training to participants on utilizing ART to access popular destinations in the area. The training will commence at Harrah’s Cherokee Center at 9:00 a.m., with a trip to Asheville Mall and a return to the center scheduled around 12:10 p.m.

Regarding Strive Beyond, it is highlighted as a program designed to motivate Western North Carolina residents to consider alternative transportation options for reaching familiar destinations in Buncombe and neighboring counties. Those interested in learning more about Strive Beyond and its activities during Strive Not to Drive Week are encouraged to visit strivebeyond.org.

The upcoming Free Bus Fare & Travel Training event promises to be an informative and beneficial experience for individuals looking to explore sustainable transportation options in the region.