Transit agencies celebrate 12th annual National Dump the Pump Day

At least 130 public transit systems and organizations nationwide are celebrating the 12th annual National Dump the Pump Day on Thursday.

Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), this national public awareness day encourages people to "Dump the Pump" by parking their car and riding a bus or train instead. The tag line is: “Dump the Pump. Ride Transit.”

“For every $1 invested in public transportation, $4 is returned in economic returns.” #TakeMARTA #DumpthePump pic.twitter.com/Zx2xMtFORS

— Keith Parker (@CEOMARTA) June 14, 2017

First started in June 2006, this national day highlights public transportation as a convenient travel option that also helps people save money. According to the June APTA Transit Savings Report, individuals in a two-person household can save an average of more than $9,700 annually by downsizing to one car and using public transit instead.

"Public transportation systems in communities all over the country are participating in Dump the Pump Day," said APTA Acting President/CEO Richard A. White. "It's a great opportunity for the public transit systems to encourage new riders to give public transportation a chance, while also thanking current riders."

It's national Dump the Pump Day, and we're offering free service all day! Take a ride on us. #dumpthepump pic.twitter.com/mc1cDMCt6Q

— C-TRAN (@ctranvancouver) June 15, 2017

To see a list of participating agencies and organizations, click here.