With the cost of gas and inflation still taking a toll on people’s bank accounts, Ulster County Area Transit has begun offering fare free rides.

Nidhi Rao, a graduate student at SUNY New Paltz, is among those benefitting from the new initiative.

“I’m an international student," Rao said. "I just moved to New Paltz a few months ago, so I don't have a car of my own.” It was through word of mouth from a few of her classmates that Rao heard about the new UCAT offer.

“It's been very useful to us, to go around to places nearby,” said Rao.

The fare-free initiative kicked off on Oct. 1, but was in the works for a few months.

Ulster County Legislator Phil Erner (District 4) said the initiative has been a group effort from all members in the community.

“The public had made clear that making the buses fare-free would really help out, could help individuals commuting to work, not fumbling for change,” said Erner.

He said this was bringing more access to neighbors who have the least right now, while also supporting the environment.

“Public transit is a real green job, fewer cars on the road, people sharing the resources that we have. I think that's all to the good of the people of Ulster County,” said Erner.

County Director of Public Transportation Loren Johnson said another plus is buses are linked with the MTA rail system.

“You could connect to a rail system that can get you straight without any fear associated," Johnson said. "You could come visit us from the city. You know, we're unique and we have both operating authority in Dutchess County and Orange County.”

Riders can download the UCAT app for service hours and routes.