EVANSVILLE, Ind. — The City of Evansville has launched a new initiative aimed at expanding transportation access for local youth during the summer months. Titled My Summer Ride, the program will allow individuals 18 and under, as well as high school students over 18, to ride METS buses free of charge from June 2 through August 2.
Mayor Stephanie Terry announced the program last week as part of the City’s broader Safe Summer initiative. Designed to reduce transportation barriers, My Summer Ride is intended to help young people reach jobs, summer camps, libraries, parks, and other important community resources.
“This program is about more than just transportation,” Mayor Terry said. “My Summer Ride is about expanding opportunity. It’s about making sure every young person in our city can get to a job, a summer camp, or the library—regardless of whether they have a car or a ride. We’re supporting working families, fostering youth independence, and building the next generation of METS riders.”
Eligible participants can ride both fixed-route and METS Mobility services for free, for any purpose—not just school-related activities. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
To make passes easily accessible, the city will partner with local youth-serving organizations for distribution. Passes will also be available for pickup at the CK Newsome Center, the METS downtown station, and all public city pools. Students who appear older than 18 should bring a school ID or recent report card when collecting their passes.
City officials see the initiative as a meaningful step toward equity and inclusion. “My administration is committed to building a city where every child—no matter their zip code—has access to opportunity,” said Mayor Terry. “My Summer Ride is a step toward that vision.”
For more information, residents can call METS at 812-435-6166 or speak with any bus operator.
