On June 19, people across the country will “dump the pump” and ride public transportation on the Third Annual Dump the Pump Day.  This event is sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and more than 100 public transportation systems will be participating nationwide.

The 2008 National Dump the Pump Day is a public awareness day that emphasizes how public transportation is the quickest way to beat high gas prices and it encourages people to ride a bus or train instead of driving a car. This national day also highlights public transportation as an important travel option that helps combat climate change.

More than 100 public transportation systems are participating in “dump the pump” activities this year.  Some public transit systems are having public events with drawings for free transit passes and other prizes, while other systems are offering free or reduced rides, doing radio promotions, and providing “transit ambassadors” to help new riders.