FRIDAYS YSU students get free rides through Nov.

Free rides are not limited to students going to and from school.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Free rides on Fridays for Youngstown State University students could boost ridership at WRTA.
The promotion, which offers free transportation all day on any of Western Reserve Transit Authority's routes to students with valid YSU IDs, runs through November.
"We want students to see how easy, convenient and inexpensive taking the bus is," said Tom Nugen, director of transportation. "Tuition is up, gas prices are higher, parking lots are crowded. Students can save time and money by utilizing our services."
WRTA offers several stops near campus, but free rides are not limited to students going to and from school, Nugen said. They can take buses traveling any of WRTA's 26 fixed routes that run throughout Mahoning and Trumbull counties and serve portions of Boardman, Austintown, Niles, Liberty, Campbell, Girard, Warren and New Castle, Pa.
"Many students living on campus may not have transportation or be familiar with the area. WRTA will allow students living both on and off campus more freedom," Nugen said.
"If any rider is unsure of which route to take, they can call us, and we will be happy to direct them."
WRTA offers student discounts every day, free transfers to the New Castle, Pa., line for all passengers, and shuttle service to every YSU home football game.
Buses run Monday through Friday from 6:10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with night service from 7:10 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday service is from 7:10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
WRTA serves all city high schools, YSU, Kent State University Trumbull Campus, all area hospitals, shopping and employment centers.
Discounts are available to senior citizens and students. Monthly passes are also available.
For more information, visit www.wrtaonline.com or call (330) 744-8431.
Free-for-all Fridays began Sept. 5.