The St. Mary’s County Department of Public Works and Transportation, along with the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and the public transportation industry, will celebrate the eighth annual National Dump the Pump Day on June 20, 2013. The day is dedicated to encouraging people to leave their cars at home and ride public transportation. This year’s slogan is ‘Dump the Pump, Save Money, Ride Transit.’
As gas prices continue to climb across the United States, this year’s Dump the Pump Day takes on even greater significance. Citizens are urged to do their part by joining the industry to promote this important day. The event is sponsored by the APTA.
Public transportation plays a vital role for community continuity for businesses, medical facilities and stores for county residents. During these tough economic times, everyone is looking for a way to save money. National Dump the Pump Day encourages people to ride public transportation and save money. The latest APTA Transit Savings Report shows that a two person household that downsizes to one car – on average – can save more than $10,000 a year.
U.S Public Transportation Systems help create a healthier environment by reducing smog producing pollutants and greenhouse gases. Public Transportation produces nearly 50 percent less carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) per passenger mile.
Participation in National Dump the Pump Day is a way of reaching out to new riders and thanking current St. Mary’s Transit System riders. This special promotional service is for STS riders over a three day period – June 20-22, 2013. In addition National Dump the Pump Day emphasizes the environmental benefits of using public transportation and citizens are encouraged to “Ride the Bus with Us.” It is also a day for people across the country to make a difference by conserving gasoline, saving money, and helping the environment.
For more information about National Dump the Pump Day and other STS services (ADA.SSTAP), call 301-863-8400 ext. 1120. Additional STS information (schedules, routes and fares) can be found on the St. Mary’s County Transportation website at www.co.saint-marys.md.us/dpw/ststransportation.asp.
