Public transportation is so important to so many people from all different walks of life. There are those who can't afford to have their own vehicle, perhaps can't drive because of a disability, are elderly, or simply wish to lessen their carbon footprint by not driving their own vehicle all the time. Whatever the reason, public transportation is important for those reasons and more, especially in a rural area like Otsego County.

Now we have some great news from Otsego County. Otsego Express with various routes in the county will drop fare fees starting on Monday, May 2 for the next six months! This cost is being subsidized by the county. So feel free (no pun intended) to hop on an Otsego Express bus with the knowledge that you don't need any money to enjoy the ride.

It seems too good to be true, doesn't it? It's not. According to the Otsego County Board, the whole idea behind this move is to relieve county residents who are struggling with the high prices at gas pumps. If you're wondering how the county is paying for this wonderful free transportation, no worries about picking up the tab as a county taxpayer. The money is coming from funding from the federal CARES Act, a portion of which was earmarked for transportation needs in communities.

Costs to ride on an Otsego Express bus have been very low cost at $1 per route, 50 cents for seniors, and kids under 6 are free. They also offer monthly passes for convenience at $30 and if you happened to buy one of those recently when the 6-month free fare offer is over, your pass will cover the next month after that.

The free fare grace period is only on Otsego Express routes - not on other forms of public transportation, but Otsego Express has plenty of routes in the county. Check them out here.

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If you have any questions about routes, schedules, or anything related, you can call Otsego Express at 800-388-9853.

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