LAFAYETTE, Ind. (Lafayette Online) — CityBus is inviting Lafayette and West Lafayette drivers to “Dump the Pump” and ride the bus instead. To kick off its campaign highlighting the financial and environmental benefits of public transportation, CityBus invites everyone to ride free all day on all routes on Thursday, June 19.

Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski and West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis have proclaimed June 19 “Dump the Pump” Day in the two cities.

“We’re citing the high price of gas as just one reason to consider CityBus for regular commutes,” said General Manager Martin Sennett. “There are many more benefits — less traffic congestion, better air quality because greenhouse gases are reduced, and the convenience of having someone else drive. Using public transportation is an easy and significant way to reduce fuel consumption, save on spending and help the environment.”

“By experiencing the ease of riding, we believe many commuters will realize what a benefit public transportation is to our community and world and make the decision to become everyday riders,” said John Metzinger, manager of development.

“Dump the Pump” is a nationwide campaign coordinated by the American Public Transportation Association. Many cities across the U.S. are participating by offering free rides.

CityBus operates a fleet of 73, including four hybrid busses. It logged nearly 4.7 million passenger trips in 2007, including more than 340,000 on the free downtown/Purdue trolley. Its mission is to be a proactive community partner, striving to improve the community’s quality of life by operating safe, reliable and environmentally friendly transit services, by partnering in local economic development activities, and by providing excellent customer service and efficient, convenient access to destinations throughout Lafayette and West Lafayette, Indiana.