Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry today announced the launch of My Summer Ride, a new pilot initiative offering free METS bus service for youth across the city this summer. The program will run from June 2 through August 2, 2025, and is open to all youth aged 18 and under, as well as students over 18 who are still enrolled in high school.

As part of the City’s Safe Summer initiative, My Summer Ride was created to reduce transportation barriers that often prevent young people from accessing jobs, summer programs, libraries, parks, and other vital community resources.

“This program is about more than just transportation,” Mayor Stephanie Terry said. “My Summer Ride is about expanding opportunity. It’s about making sure every young person in our city can get to a job, a summer camp, or the library – regardless of whether they have a car or a ride. We’re supporting working families, fostering youth independence, and building the next generation of METS riders.”

To increase accessibility, the city will work with local youth-serving organizations to help distribute METS bus passes. Those passes will be available for pick-up at the CK Newsome Center, METS Station, and all public city pools. Students who may appear older than 18 should be prepared to show school ID or a report card when picking up their bus passes.

Participants in My Summer Ride can use METS fixed-route and METS Mobility services at no cost. The free rides are available for any purpose, not just for school-related activities. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

By offering this program, the City of Evansville is advancing several of Mayor Terry’s core priorities:

• Youth Development, by helping young people access enrichment, education, and employment.
• Public Safety, by ensuring safe, reliable transportation options.
• Economic Development, by reducing transportation barriers for youth entering the workforce.

“My administration is committed to building a city where every child – no matter their zip code – has access to opportunity,” Mayor Terry added. “My Summer Ride is a step toward that vision.”

Full program details are available by calling METS at 812-435-6166 or asking any bus operator.