Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus Announces Free Bus Fares for Newburgh and Middletown Area Tran

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus announced an initiative to make public transportation more accessible and affordable for residents and visitors. Starting today (January 24^th), the County will sponsor free bus fares for all Newburgh and Middletown Area Transit services through December 31, 2025.

"This is a game-changer, as it will provide easier access to transportation for those who rely on it," said Neuhaus. "With the rising costs of living, this will provide much-needed relief for many individuals and families to get to work, a doctor's appointment, or the grocery store. I am happy to extend this service and to keep it running through the end of the year."

Orange County Legislator Kevindaryán Lujánadded, "Last year the free bus program was a huge success, and ridership more than doubled. This program provided significant cost savings for residents while connecting our communities to jobs and services and helping reduce traffic and pollution. I have had the pleasure of working with County Executive Neuhaus and state partners in the past to bring this to life, and I am excited to see this being rolled out for the entire year. It is an important investment in our community and a major achievement for transportation."

This initiative covers fixed-route and American Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit services in Newburgh and Middletown, benefiting over 200,000 riders throughout the year.

"We are proud to introduce free fares through the end of the year on the Newburgh and Middletown fixed route and ADA paratransit bus services, making public transit more accessible and affordable for residents of Orange County," said Commissioner of Orange County Department of Planning, Alan Sorensen. "This program is a big step toward reducing financial barriers, easing costs for families, and promoting sustainable transportation options."

According to Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey, access to free busing can have a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families, as well as the possibility to provide countless opportunities. "First and foremost, I want to thank County Executive Neuhaus for collaborating with us on the free bus rides in the City of Newburgh during these inflationary times," he stated. "We also appreciate the pilot program that was done last year and are very excited to announce this together."

Orange County Legislator Janet Sutherland stated, "This is an exciting time for our Newburgh and Middletown residents. The cost of insurance, gas prices, and maintenance can make it difficult for people to own a car these days. In turn, it makes it hard to get to work, the doctor, etc.," said Sutherland. "The free buses in Middletown and Newburgh will take the pressure off our residents and give them the ability to take care of day-to-day business with less of a struggle."

City of Middletown Mayor Joe DeStefano noted, "Thank you County Executive Neuhaus for your commitment to improving the quality of life for our residents. This is evident by your efforts to secure this valuable service. I believe that access to free public transportation will have a positive and lasting impact on our community, ensuring that everyone can navigate our city safely, comfortably, and at no cost."

"The cost of transportation can be a major barrier to accessing basic needs, and by implementing free busing, our hope is that we can help to alleviate this burden on our community members," said Neuhaus. "I encourage residents to utilize this service so we can continue to keep it up and running."

New York State Senator Rob Rolison stated, "I have a deep appreciation for County Executive Neuhaus and Orange County government for making free public transportation a reality in the city of Newburgh through the end of 2025. I was proud to advocate for this initiative last year for a short term rollout which provided countless community benefits. Expanding this to a full year will only strengthen access and ridership for those who rely on the essential public transportation in the city."

No proof of residency is required. Detailed bus routes and schedules can be found by visiting www.ridetransitorange.com.

For more information, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to County Executive, Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845.291.2700 or [email protected].

To learn more about what County Executive Neuhaus is doing for Orange County, follow Orange County Government and Steven M. Neuhaus on Facebook, @Orange County NY Govt and @steve.neuhaus on Instagram, and @OCGovNY and @SNeuhausOC on X. You can also watch Neuhaus' NeuCast podcasts and Leadership Speaker Series on YouTube.

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