Residents in Lake and Geauga counties can take advantage of free public transportation to cast their ballots in the May 5 primary election in Ohio.
Both Laketran and Geauga Transit are offering complimentary rides to polling locations on Election Day, as well as to their respective Boards of Elections for early voting, which begins April 7.
Laketran will provide free transportation on all Local Routes and Dial-a-Ride services. Residents using Local Routes simply need to inform the driver they are heading to vote or returning from voting, and their trip will be free. Dial-a-Ride, Laketran’s door-to-door service, is also available at no cost for trips to polling locations or early voting sites. Reservations are required and can be made 1 to 12 business days in advance by calling 440-350-1000.
Geauga Transit will also offer free rides to voters through its Dial-a-Ride, door-to-door service, making it easy and convenient for residents to access the polls.
On Election Day, polling locations will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Voters may also cast their ballots early at their county Board of Elections beginning April 7.
“Access to the ballot is fundamental, and transportation should never be a barrier to participating in our democratic process,” said Ben Capelle, CEO of Laketran. “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.”
For polling locations, early voting hours, or additional election information, Mentor residents should visit the Lake County Board of Elections webpage at https://www.lakecountyohio.gov/boe/.