SMART Rolls Out Free Rides on Election Day to Empower Voter Access

When the stakes are high, and every vote counts, access to the ballot box must be a given, not a privilege. On November 5, 2024, SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) is offering a crucial service to voters across Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. All day long, from midnight until 11:59 p.m., SMART’s buses and services will be free, removing a significant barrier to voting for communities that rely on public transit. “Voting is a fundamental right, and transportation should never stand in the way of someone making their voice heard,” says SMART General Manager Dwight Ferrell. For SMART, this initiative goes beyond typical transit services. It’s a commitment to community, reflecting their mission of being not just a transit provider but a partner in the democratic process. Ferrell’s words resonate deeply—transportation, a basic need, shouldn’t limit access to something as essential as voting. This effort is SMART’s second time providing free rides on Election Day, and its impact is invaluable. By eliminating fare costs, SMART is helping those who may face financial or logistical hurdles to participate fully in democracy. Fixed Route buses, SMART Flex, Connector Services, and ADA Paratransit options will all be available for free, ensuring...