WRTA Invites the Valley to ‘Dump the Pump’ on June 18

Save Money, Support the Local Economy and a Cleaner Environment

The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) is joining hundreds of public transportation systems nationwide to celebrate the 21st annual National Dump the Pump Day this Thursday, June 18, 2026.

Sponsored nationally by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), the day emphasizes that choosing public transit over driving is a powerful, convenient way to save money, protect the environment, and fuel local economic growth.

First established in 2006, National Dump the Pump Day challenges drivers to leave their cars at home for at least one day and experience the benefits of public transit.

According to recent APTA data, individual households can save an average of over $10,000 annually by switching their daily commute to public transportation and downsizing by just one vehicle. Beyond significant financial savings, public transit produces roughly 50% fewer carbon emissions per passenger mile than private vehicles, creating a cleaner, healthier community.

A Message from WRTA Leadership:

“National Dump the Pump Day is the perfect opportunity for people who don’t normally ride the bus to discover how easy, safe, and cost-effective it is to leave the driving to us,” said Dean Harris, CEO of WRTA. “Reaching over 2 million rides a year shows the Valley increasingly trusts WRTA to get them where they need to go. Every trip represents money saved at the gas pump, fewer cars on our roads, and a direct reinvestment into the economic vitality of the Mahoning Valley.” 

Public Transit = Economic Growth

In addition to expanding mobility, WRTA continues to serve as an economic cornerstone for the region. National transit data demonstrates that every $1 invested in public transportation infrastructure generates $4 to $5 in economic returns, boosting local business accessibility, stabilizing property values, and supporting public sector commerce.

How the Public Can Participate

WRTA encourages all Mahoning Valley residents to take part in Dump the Pump Day on Thursday, June 18, by doing the following:

• Rethink Your Commute: Swap at least one routine car trip on Thursday—whether it’s your drive to work, a run to the grocery store, or meeting friends—for a ride on a WRTA fixed route or countywide service.
• Plan Your Trip Easily: Residents can find the route on WRTAonline.com or download the MyStop Mobile app to find and track the best bus and route for you.
• Share Your Ride: Show your support for sustainable travel by sharing photos of your transit commute on social media using the hashtags #DumpThePump and #WRTA.

To learn more about WRTA routes, schedules, and how to plan your trip for National Dump the Pump Day, click here.