GRTC, Mountain Metropolitan Transit to continue offering free fares

The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) and Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT) will continue offering free fares to its riders. 

GRTC’s Zero Fare for FY 26 

GRTC’s draft budget for fiscal year (FY) 2026 includes its Zero Fare service, as the agency notes current funding sources support the continuation of fare-free transit. 

“Zero Fare has transformed the way people move throughout our region,” said GRTC CEO Sheryl Adams. “This program removes barriers, expands access to opportunity and directly supports our core mission: providing equitable, reliable transit for all. We’re proud of the positive impact it’s had on our riders and our community.” 

To help sustain the effort beyond FY 26, GRTC says it is actively advancing new initiatives, including the Transit Access Partnership and an expanded advertising program. Both efforts are designed to grow community investment and engage local and regional partners in supporting equitable access to transit. According to the agency, final approval of the FY 26 budget is expected in the coming weeks. 

MMT free fares for summer  

MMT will be offering free rides from June 1 to Aug. 31, 2025. The agency notes this will be its fourth consecutive year participating in the Zero Fare Transit Grant program. 

According to MMT, the free fares are made possible by Senate Bill 24-032, which allows transit agencies in the state of Colorado to receive a grant aimed at promoting public transportation use during the summer months when ozone levels are often at their highest. 

"We are excited to continue providing free fares for our riders again this year," said MMT Division Manager Lan Rao. "We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity for a free ride this summer.” 

MMT notes free rides will be available on all buses, as well as Metro Mobility paratransit services.