Thousands seeking shelter, assistance offered complimentary fares throughout VIA service area
SAN ANTONIO (Aug. 29, 2017) – VIA Metropolitan Transit announced Tuesday it will continue to provide free public transportation to Hurricane Harvey evacuees who are in emergency shelters in San Antonio and Bexar County. Passengers are asked to show their shelter-issued wrist band in order to access the free service and may travel anywhere within VIA’s service area.
Throughout the severe weather event, VIA provided vehicles to support evacuation deployment plans, including transporting emergency staff and evacuees arriving in San Antonio. VIA began offering complimentary service Thursday, August 24, to guests in shelters operated by The Office of Emergency Management. The agency maintained regular service with minimal disruptions as effects from Hurricane Harvey stayed to the east of San Antonio.
“VIA is always ready to provide assistance to our partners who must welcome, shelter, and safely transport neighbors most affected by emergency events, such as this unprecedented storm,” said VIA President/CEO Jeffrey C. Arndt. “The community spirit that has been displayed throughout San Antonio and Bexar County is an inspiration to do all that we can for as many as we can help.”
The OEM opened several shelters in the area to receive a swell of guests fleeing the storm’s destructive path. Several thousand people who have been displaced by Hurricane Harvey are traveling to shelters coordinated by the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, and other agencies.
Customers may visit VIAinfo.net, or follow VIA’s Facebook and Twitter pages, for the latest service updates.
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About VIA Metropolitan Transit
VIA provides regional multimodal transportation options that connect our community to opportunity, support economic vitality, and enhance quality of life throughout our region. VIA, recognized by the Texas Transit Association in 2016 as the outstanding Metro Transit Authority of the year, serves 14 member cities and the unincorporated areas of Bexar County, operating seven days a week on 90 routes. Last year, VIA provided 40 million rides across the region. VIA’s AAA bond rating reflects the organization’s sound management and financial practices. Visit www.VIAinfo.net for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
CONTACT: Lorraine Pulido, Ph.D.
c 210-380-6895