File photo
File photo
This year saw record voter turnout, with a program funded by Tarrant County bringing 5,500 trips to polls in the county this election.
Under a partnership with Tarrant County Commissioners Court and transportation services in the county, Tarrant County was able to pay for voters' trips to polling stations, according to the county. Overall, 5,562 trips were made with this program using Trinity Metro's bus routes and ACCESS paratransit and ZIPSONE.
“We wanted to do everything we could to encourage Tarrant County residents to get out and vote,” Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley said. “I am pleased to see that so many people took advantage of Tarrant County’s offer of a free ride to the polls.”
In Arlington alone, there were 182 trips in the program to go to voting locations.
“Voting is such an important right, and we really appreciate the Tarrant County Commissioners for providing the funding for these free rides," Bob Baulsir, president and CEO of Trinity Metro, said.