The North County Transit District will commemorate the legacy of Rosa Parks by participating in the nationwide Transit Equity Day and offering free rides on all trains and buses on Feb. 4.
The date is the birthday of Parks, who became a civil rights icon because of her refusal to give up a seat on a public bus to a white rider. Her action in Montgomery, AL, in 1955 led to a boycott of the bus service and ultimately resulted in desegregation of the transit system.
“Decades after Ms. Park’s bold decision, we must continue to advocate for accessible, reliable, and affordable public transportation for all,” said Jewel Edson, NCTD board chair and Solana Beach deputy mayor.
“Offering free rides highlights the value of providing equitable access to public transportation,” Edson said.
Rides will be free on Sunday, Feb. 4, on Coaster and Sprinter trains, Breeze buses and other transit services.