HRT honors Juneteenth with Free Fares

HAMPTON, VA – To recognize Juneteenth, Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) will offer free fares again this year on all bus, trolley, light rail, ferry, and paratransit services. This marks the fourth year HRT has offered free fares on Juneteenth, an agency tradition that began in 2020, one year before it was officially recognized by the Commonwealth as a state holiday.

“Juneteenth has long been celebrated by the African American community, marking the end of slavery in the United States in 1865. Our region’s connection to this pivotal moment began two years earlier, when free and enslaved people witnessed the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in the South under the Emancipation Oak located at Hampton University. We want to honor this day, not only to commemorate the historical achievements of our past, but to also cultivate a more inclusive and equitable future.”
-William Harrell, President & CEO of HRT

This will also be the fourth time this fiscal year that the agency has offered free fares. Election Day, Transit Equity Day and Earth Day were also established as free fare days. These opportunities give HRT a chance to thank its daily riders and give new riders the chance to try transit.

“Connecting Hampton Roads’ diverse communities through transit ensures everyone has access to opportunities and fosters inclusivity in our region,” said Harrell. “Therefore, it is imperative for Hampton Roads Transit to continue in its commitment to support a diverse, equitable, and inclusive agency by promoting a culture that celebrates the unique attributes and perspectives of all its customers.”

Bus and light rail services will operate on their Saturday schedule. The ferry will operate on its regular weekday schedule. Transit center information booths and public access to all administrative facilities will be closed. The Customer Service Call Center will be available from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.