In an effort to improve air quality by promoting public transportation use, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has partnered with UCAIR, the Utah Clean Air Partnership, to offer free seven-day passes through March 31 under the RideClear program.

“We looked at the air quality issue and felt like we had a unique opportunity to do something to help,” said UTA General Manager Michael Allegra. “We hope people take advantage of this program, especially on days when the air is really bad. Taking any cars off the road during times when the air stagnates in Utah is good for everyone.”

“UCAIR is focused on educating, encouraging, and empowering everyone to take actions that can improve our air quality,” said Ted Wilson, UCAIR executive director. “We recognize that the majority of our emissions come from mobile sources, and transit can be a big part of the solution in this arena. With this program, UTA is enabling individuals to make a different choice in how they get around, which in turn improves air quality. It is extremely rewarding to be able to support such a program.”

UTA explained that winter is an especially critical time for air quality. During periods of cold temperatures and clear skies, a layer of cold air settles underneath a layer of higher, warmer air. Particulate matter and other pollutants emitted by automobiles become trapped within the cold air layer, creating unhealthy air quality conditions.