MCDOT

Free Ride On Service Available During Maryland Primary Early Voting Period

By Patrick Herron

Montgomery County Department of Transportation is reminding residents that both Ride On and Metrobus routes are available to help voters reach early voting centers during Maryland’s 2026 Primary Election.

Early voting will take place from June 11 through June 18, including weekends, with polling locations open daily from 7 am to 8 pm. Ride On buses remain fare-free for all riders, while Metrobus offers several free and reduced-fare programs, including discounted transit options for seniors, people with disabilities, and students.

Per MCDOT: Ride On and Metrobus routes serving early voting centers:

  • Activity Center at Bohrer: Ride On Routes 55, 59
  • Bauer Drive Community Recreation Center: Ride On Route 48
  • Damascus Community Recreation Center: Ride On Route 90
  • Executive Office Building: Ride On Routes 44, 46, 47, 54, 56, 63
  • Germantown Community Recreation Center: Ride On Routes 71, 78, 98
  • Jane E. Lawton Community Recreation Center: Metrobus Routes M22, M70, D96
    • The Bethesda Metro Station is also nearby.
  • Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center: Metrobus Route M52
  • Mid-County Community Recreation Center: Ride On Routes 26, 39, 49
  • Nancy H. Dacek North Potomac Community Rec. Center: Ride On Route 301
  • Potomac Community Recreation Center: Ride On Route 37
  • Sandy Spring Volunteer Fire Station: Ride On Routes 52, 53, Flex
  • Wheaton Library and Community Recreation Center: Ride On Routes 9, 31, Flex* (Note: Wheaton/Glenmont Flex bus will discontinue service on July 1.)
  • White Oak Community Recreation Center: Ride On Flash

The Ride On Trip Planner app is a free regional public transportation planner that will find the fastest route, with real-time updates on wait times and bus crowdedness levels.

“MCDOT is committed to making sure all residents are able to cast their vote in the primary elections,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “Montgomery County has early voting centers with extended hours in 14 locations across the County, accessible by public transportation. All Ride On buses are zero fare, and our bus routes offer continuous service throughout the day. I encourage anyone who needs a ride to the polls to plan ahead using our Ride On Trip Planner app to find the bus route that works best for your schedule.”

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