Durham has the opportunity to expand and preserve fare-free transit, ensuring that thousands of residents can continue accessing jobs, education, and healthcare without financial barriers. The City of Durham has taken major steps toward making fare-free transit a reality, but now we must show up in numbers to support these efforts and ensure that the city and county commit to fully funding public transit.

The March 17 budget hearing is where City Council and the County Commissioners will hear public comments and consider transit funding priorities. Our goal is to gather as a strong, visible group to demonstrate community support for fare-free transit and to ensure that decision-makers hear from the riders and workers who will be most impacted.

We’ll ride together, canvass at the transit station, and then walk into the hearing as a unified force. Whether you are a transit rider, an advocate, or just someone who believes in a more accessible and equitable Durham—this is your chance to make an impact!

*What We’re Doing*

✔ 4:00 PM - Board the nearest bus to you headed to GoDurham Station

(An hour is given for longer bus routes if you don’t have a long travel time or wish to ride your bike to the event please leave at a time that is convenient to you arriving by 5:00 PM.)

✔ 5:00 PM - Arrive at GoDurham Station

• We encourage everyone to ride the bus to GoDurham Station and arrive at 5:00 PM.

• Gather as a group, meet fellow transit supporters, and get materials for canvassing.

• Short training session to go over canvassing and public comment talking points.

✔ 5:15 - 6:15 PM - Canvassing for Fare-Free Transit

• Volunteers will spread out at GoDurham Station to collect last-minute petition signatures and transit rider stories.

• We’ll encourage riders to join us at the budget hearing.

• No experience needed—we will provide a quick training and all materials!

✔ 6:20 PM - Walk Together to City Hall

• Show solidarity by arriving as a large, visible group.

• Get signed in for public comment and help finalize talking points.

• Pass out Bike Durham shirts so we stand together visually.

✔ 7:00 PM - Budget Hearing Begins

• Fill the hearing room with supporters for fare-free transit.

• Support riders, transit workers, and advocates speaking during public comments.

• Submit written comments if you prefer not to speak.

*How You Can Help*

✅ Show Up & Ride With Us – Whether you ride transit daily or support fare-free access, your presence matters!

✅ Canvass at GoDurham Station – Help collect transit rider stories and petition signatures.

✅ Speak at the Hearing – Tell City Council and the County Commissioners why fare-free transit matters.

✅ Wear Something Visible – Bike Durham shirts will be available, or bring your own transit-friendly gear.