regional Free rides in July 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                 
June 18, 2026                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                                             
StanRTA, Turlock Transit, and Merced’s “The Bus” Team Up Again for Free Fares July:
​Ride Free All Month Long Across Stanislaus and Merced Counties
 
Stanislaus and Merced Counties, CA — This July, getting around the Central Valley will be easier and more affordable than ever. Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority (StanRTA), Turlock Transit, and “The Bus” in Merced County are partnering once again to offer Free Fares July, the annual program that provides riders with unlimited fare-free transportation throughout July.
 
From July 1 through July 31, passengers can ride all fixed-route services operated by the three transit agencies at no cost, along with all demand-response services in Stanislaus County and micro transit services in Merced County. With fares waived for the entire month, riders can take advantage of public transportation for everything from everyday errands to regional travel, making it easier and more affordable to get where they need to go.
 
"Free Fares July is an opportunity for residents to experience the benefits of public transportation without worrying about the skyrocketing cost of gasoline," said Adam Barth, CEO of StanRTA. "We are proud to partner with our neighboring partner transit agencies to help connect our communities while providing a cost-saving transportation option during the busy summer season."
 
The promotion encourages both current riders and first-time passengers to discover how public transportation can help reduce transportation expenses, avoid rising fuel costs, and support a cleaner environment.
 
“Our goal is to increase public transit use and improve air quality while at the same time reducing traffic congestion and harmful emissions,” said Wayne York, Transit Manager for Turlock Transit. “We look forward to providing free trips to regional areas of interest, including the Stanislaus County Fair.”
 
"Regional mobility is strengthened with strong partnerships. By joining forces to provide free bus service throughout July, we are expanding access for residents to conveniently travel across Merced and Stanislaus counties,” said Serenity Anderson, Transit Director for the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County. “Whether commuting to work, attending appointments, accessing essential services, or visiting friends, riders will benefit from a more connected transit network and easier access to the places that matter most."
 
Riders are encouraged to visit each agency's website for route maps, schedules, service information, and trip-planning resources.

• Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority (StanRTA): www.stanrta.org
• Turlock Transit: www.turlocktransit.com
• The Bus (Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County): www.mercedthebus.com

 
Free Fares July applies to all services in Stanislaus county.
 
In Merced County, fixed-route and micro transit (The Micro Bus) services are both free in July. Passengers who already ride for free through the Measure V fare subsidy program for seniors, veterans and ADA-eligible should continue to show their respective IDs to ride during the month. Additionally, UC Merced and Merced College students should also continue to show their current student ID cards to take advantage of the free service.
 
About The Bus
The Bus is the single public transportation service provider for all of Merced County and is administered by the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County and managed by the Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG).
 
About StanRTA
The Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority (“StanRTA”) is a joint powers agency whose members are the City of Modesto and the County of Stanislaus, and which was created to consolidate transit services countywide with the exception of the City of Turlock.
 
About Turlock Transit
Turlock Transit is the local provider of public transportation services for residents and visitors within the city of Turlock and community of Denair.
 
For more information, please contact:
 
Mary-Michal Rawling, MPA
Public Affairs Manager
Merced County Association of Governments
Phone: (209) 723-3153 x119
Email: [email protected]
 
April Henderson Potter
Head of Marketing and Engagement
Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority 
Phone: (209) 424-3187
Email: [email protected]
 
Wayne York
Transit Manager
Turlock Transit
Phone: (209) 669-2800
Email: [email protected]