Free rides on WRTA buses will continue as people recover from the economic impact of COVID-19.

The Western Reserve Transit Authority says that free fares on all WRTA buses will be extended through Dec. 31, 2021.

"We first implemented free fares last year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic," said WRTA Executive Director Dean Harris. "While that situation has improved in recent months, the Valley is still recovering from its effects in many ways. We want to continue to make it easy for our riders to get to and from their jobs, to medical appointments and to the many retail areas we serve in Mahoning County and the city of Warren."

Social distancing on board WRTA's large buses has been relaxed, and seats that had been blocked off are available again.

Passengers are still required to wear face coverings when riding all WRTA buses in accordance with CDC guidelines. Riders should still board WRTA's Fixed Route buses from the rear door with the exception of riders using wheelchairs or strollers.

The free fare policy applies to all WRTA services.