CTA offering free rides on 1st school day

Chicago Public Schools students are once again getting free rides on city buses and trains on the first day of school.

The Chicago Transit Authority announced Wednesday it will offer its “First Day, Free Rides” program for the fifth straight year.

CPS students and adults accompanying them will get to ride CTA buses and trains for free from 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 8.

CTA President Dorval Carter Jr. says the free rides encourage higher attendance on the first day of the school year. He says: “Affordable, reliable public transportation plays an important role in helping to ensure that our city’s students get the opportunity for a strong education.”

CTA also offers discounted student fares on weekdays when school is in session.