RSM Public Transit Gives Back To Riders For California Clean Air Day

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — Public transit agencies in Rancho Santa Margarita and across Orange County are offering free rides on Wednesday as part of California Clean Air Day — an effort to protect public health and improve air quality.

In partnership with the Coalition for Clean Air, both Orange County Transportation Authority and Metrolink are among 513 organizations that are participating by offering free or discounted services to riders who want to do their part in reducing toxic tailpipe emissions. Orange County Transportation Authority is promoting “Rideshare Week” as a way to clear the air.

The OCTA is asking riders to pledge to rideshare during Rideshare Week 2022 for a chance to win great prizes. Eligible activities include taking the bus or train, carpooling, vanpooling, teleworking, biking or walking. They all reduce congestion and pollution, an OCTA spokesperson said.

Riding the bus is easy, inexpensive and you can enjoy the trip instead of worrying about traffic or the cost of gas, according to the OCTA website. For those who are new to getting around Orange County on an OCTA bus, here are some quick steps to get you up and riding.

“Whether you’re an individual, business, government agency or nonprofit organization, there are things we all can do to improve air quality and protect public health,” a statement on the California Clean Air Day website said. “In a state with some of the worst air pollution in the United States, it is imperative that we do.”

Along with local organizations, the city of Irvine is just one of many Orange County communities dedicated to finding cleaner energy sources. With nearly 400 miles of on- and off-street bikeways, a comprehensive network of walking and running paths, and over 1,050 EV charging stations in the City, Irvine has made it easy for residents to use alternative methods of transportation to reduce air pollution, according to the city’s website.

This year marks the fifth annual California Clean Air Day, and it helps bring cleaner air to the region, especially to low-income neighborhoods and communities of color that are disproportionately affected by poor air quality. Metro believes an easy way for the public to do their part is to leave cars at home and hop on public transit.

“Irvine is proud to join hundreds of others across the state who are coming together to clear the air with this statewide effort and do its part to create a cleaner, healthier environment,” said Irvine Mayor Farrah N. Khan. “I encourage all our residents and businesses to support our community and take the Clean Air Pledge this year.”

A map of Metro locations in Los Angeles County can be found here.

Electric scooter and bike companies are also participating in Clean Air Day. Lime and Bird are offering free unlocks on their electric vehicles to those who pledge on the Clean Air Day website and commit to helping clear the air by replacing a car ride with an e-scooter or e-bike ride.

To be a part of the more than 1.8 million Californians who have pledged to help clear the air, register and commit to planting something, switching things out or reducing vehicles on Wednesday here.