OH: How to get a free ride to vote in Lake or Geauga County this spring

Getting to the polls in Lake and Geauga counties will be a little easier — and cheaper — this spring.

Residents can ride public transit for free to cast their ballots in Ohio’s May 5 primary election, thanks to a joint effort by local transit agencies.

Beginning April 7, when early voting opens, both Laketran and Geauga Transit will offer complimentary rides to their respective boards of elections.

The free service will also be available on Election Day.

In Lake County, Laketran is waving fares across its entire system, including fixed local routes and its Dial-a-Ride door-to-door service. Riders using local routes only need to tell the driver they are heading to vote or returning from a polling place to receive a free trip.

For those who prefer or require door-to-door transportation, Dial-a-Ride trips will also be free for voting-related travel. Reservations are required and can be made between one and 12 business days in advance by calling Laketran.

Geauga County residents will have access to similar accommodations. Geauga Transit will provide free rides through its Dial-a-Ride service, offering door-to-door transportation for voters heading to polling locations or early voting sites.

Polling locations across Ohio will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on May 5. Early in-person voting begins April 7 and runs through the weeks leading up to Election Day.

“Access to the ballot is fundamental, and transportation should never be a barrier to participating in our democratic process,” Ben Capelle, CEO of Laketran said in a statement. “By offering free rides for both early voting and Election Day, we’re helping ensure every resident has a convenient and reliable way to make their voice heard.”

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