AUSTIN (KXAN) — As Central Texans prepare to cast their ballot this election season, several local resources and national companies are offering free and reduced-price ways of getting to the polls.
Austin-based transit authority CapMetro will waive fares on all services on Election Day, which falls on Nov. 5 this year. CapMetro’s bikeshare services will also be fare-free on Election Day, with a yet-to-be-determined access code.
On the rideshare front, both Lyft and Uber announced they would be providing discounted rides on Election Day to connect voters with polling sites.
Lyft is offering a 50% discount on rides, for up to $10 off a trip, using the code “VOTE24.” That applies to Lyft-operated rideshare, bikeshare and scooter rides and runs from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. in all time zones, company officials noted.
“Lyft believes transportation access should never be a barrier for any citizen seeking to vote,” Lyft Chief Policy Officer Jerry Golden said in a statement. “Our Voting Access Program reflects our commitment to being a force for good, and we’re proud to encourage riders and drivers to exercise their fundamental right to vote, regardless of income, zip code, or political affiliation.”
With Uber, riders can seek a 50% discounted ride, up to $10, when using the “Go Vote” tile in Uber’s app. Under the same “Go Vote” tile, users can search their home address and find which polling places are nearby.
On the Uber Eats end of things, the company will also offer 25% off food orders, with a $25 minimum order amount and up to $15 off the total meal.
“At Uber, we believe transportation shouldn’t be a barrier for any eligible citizen to vote,” Uber officials said in an online statement. “So with Election Day just around the corner, we’re here to make it as effortless as possible as you begin to make your plan to vote.”
The Capital Area Rural Transportation System, or CARTS, will provide free rides to residents to and from the polls during early voting and on Election Day, CARTS officials said in a release. Those free services apply to both CARTS Country Bus and CARTS Now on-demand services, with dates and hours varying depending on where riders live.
CARTS is an organization centered on providing transportation services in less-urbanized parts of Central Texas, with service offerings in Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Travis and Williamson counties. Those interested in a free ride can use the code “earlyvote2024” to get their free ride to the polls and plug in the same access code for a free ride back. Those rides can be scheduled via the CARTS NOW app or by calling 512-505-5666.
