Release Date: October 31,2025

METRO RTA Offers Free Fares to SNAP Benefit Recipients Starting November 1

October 31, 2025, Summit County — METRO Regional Transit Authority will temporarily waive fares on METRO Direct and ADA services for Ohio Direction cardholders starting November 1, 2025, until further notice. This decision comes in response to the postponement of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments being distributed to members of our community.

“METRO recognizes that the loss of food benefits will create a financial burden for many of our transit-loyal riders,” said METRO CEO Dawn Distler. “If we can help alleviate some of the financial strain for our community members, we are pleased to do so."

When boarding, passengers can show their Ohio Direction, SNAP, or EBT card to the operator, allowing both the cardholder and members of their household to ride free. The cardholder must be present at the time of boarding.

“Earlier this week, I called on the community to join the County in responding to this moment. METRO jumped into action to answer that call. Their efforts will help ensure our residents can get to food pantries and other resources with a little less stress,” said Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro. “This is what true collaboration looks like, and it is no surprise to see it on display in Summit County.

”For additional resources and information, visitwww.211summit.org or co.summitoh.net. To find a list of local food distribution locations/pantries and the METRO routes that serve them, visit www.yourmetrobus.org/SNAP.

METRO RTA is the public transportation provider in Summit County. METRO enhances the quality of life for our community by providing innovative transportation solutions that are safe, equitable, dependable, cost-effective, and customer-focused, now and into the future.