Climate Smart: Transportation

Download the Ride On Trip Planner App

woman on bus typing on smart phone

What to do: Download the Ride On Trip Planner App on Apple or Google Play for fast, eco-friendly, and cost-effective travel options.
Why? Public transportation is easy on your wallet, good for your health, and it’s climate-friendly.
Bonus Tips: Montgomery County offers zero fare for all riders on all County operated buses including Ride On, Flash, Ride On extRa and Flex. Specialized SmarTrip® cards are available for reduced fare on Metro bus and rail for seniors, those who have a disability, and those who qualify based on income.

family riding bikes on local trail

What to do: Get out and discover Montgomery County by planning a bike ride (map) on trails, designated bike lanes and shared-use paths.
Why? Montgomery County has nearly 300 miles of bikeways. Biking is a healthy and efficient way to get around.
Bonus Tips: Montgomery County residents can donate unused bicycles or apply to receive a free bike through the MCDOT Bike Match MoCo Program. Residents can rent bikes and scooters throughout Montgomery County, and the Capital Bikeshare for All program offers $5 annual bike rental memberships to qualifying residents.

woman loading trunk while charging electric vehicle

What to do: Join Montgomery County's Electric Vehicle Purchasing Co-op to connect with new purchase incentives and discounts, events, and educational resources for electric vehicles.
Why? In Montgomery County, 42% of the County’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the transportation sector. Private vehicle electrification will make the most impact, as privately owned cars make up 75% of total trips.
Bonus Tip: A Montgomery County resident who drives 30-40 miles per day and charges at home will spend approximately $40 per month on electricity for their EV. Estimate EV Savings & Benefits.

Bike commuter looking at their phone while stopped.

Go car-free one day a week. Montgomery County has the benefit of a well-connected public transit system. Ride On buses are now zero fare for all riders. Together with Metrobus, Metrorail, and an expanding network of sidewalks and bike paths, they offer residents sustainable travel options that cut emissions and ease traffic. To make planning easier, use the Ride On Trip Planner app. The FareShare Program promotes the use of transit and vanpooling among employees working in Montgomery County by matching employer contributions up to $325 per month toward commuting costs. To get started, ask your employer to contact MCDOT.
Take a low-cost bike class. Whether you're learning to ride for the first time or just need a refresher, the County hosts $10 adult bike classes every spring and fall. These include “Learn to Ride” and “Basic Skills” sessions taught by certified instructors. Free walk-up e-scooter classes are also available immediately after select bike classes, with no registration required. Visit Montgomery County’s biking page to explore class options and register.