The Owensboro Transit System (OTS) announced a new free‑ride program designed to help community members get to the early‑voting location at the Owensboro Sportscenter. Starting Saturday, Oct. 29 and running through Monday, Oct. 31, OTS will operate dedicated buses that transport riders directly to the polling site.
Schedule and Service Details
Early‑voting hours at the Sportscenter are set from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. OTS buses will depart from key stops throughout Owensboro on an hourly basis, with additional runs during peak times to accommodate seniors, parents with young children, and anyone who may have difficulty driving.
“Our goal is to remove transportation barriers that can keep good‑hearted citizens from exercising their constitutional right to vote,” said OTS Director Jamie Collins. “By offering free rides, we are supporting families, churches, and all who value civic duty in our city.”
Why the Initiative Matters
Local officials note that early voting provides a convenient alternative to the crowded Election Day schedule, giving voters more flexibility to cast their ballots at a time that fits their work and family commitments. The free‑ride program aligns with Owensboro’s broader effort to encourage voter turnout and uphold the principles of individual liberty and responsible citizenship.
Community leaders, including pastors from several local churches, have praised the effort. Rev. Mark Henderson of First Baptist Church remarked, “When we make voting accessible, we strengthen the moral fabric of our community. It’s a practical way to live out our faith by caring for one another’s civic responsibilities.”
How to Use the Service
Riders can board the free buses at any standard OTS stop. No ticket or reservation is required; simply present a valid ID at the Sportscenter when you arrive. The buses are wheelchair‑accessible and equipped with safety features to ensure a comfortable ride for all passengers.
For those who prefer to plan ahead, OTS has posted a schedule on its website and on social‑media channels. The agency also encourages volunteers to spread the word through churches, schools, and neighborhood groups, emphasizing the importance of every vote in shaping local policies that affect families and businesses.
Looking Ahead
The free‑ride program is part of OTS’s ongoing commitment to serve Owensboro residents beyond everyday commuting needs. By partnering with the city’s election officials, OTS hopes to set a precedent for future civic‑engagement initiatives, such as transportation to town‑hall meetings and community events.
As the early‑voting period draws to a close on Oct. 31, officials urge all eligible voters to take advantage of the free service and make their voices heard. “Every ballot counts,” Collins added. “We’re proud to play a small but meaningful role in protecting the democratic process that our founders envisioned.”
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
