Metro News

Metro honors Veterans with free rides, convenient shuttle service, and support for Hamilton County’s Veterans Appreciation Day celebration.

Metro to Provide Free Rides to Active, Reserve, and Retired Military Members on August 23

August 19, 2025
Hamilton County Veterans Partner with Metro

In support of the Hamilton County Veterans Appreciation Day on August 23rd at Sawyer Point, Metro is proud to offer fare-free rides on Metro’s fixed routes and Access paratransit for veterans and active- or reserve-duty military members.

To ride fare-free, active, reserve, and retired military members must show valid proof of military or Veteran status upon boarding the bus, including:

  • U.S. Department of Defense-issued military ID card
  • Veterans Affairs ID card
  • State-issued driver’s license with veteran designation
  • Metro’s MVP program ID card
  • Hamilton County Veterans Card

In addition, Metro will provide two dedicated shuttle services to improve accessibility to the event at Sawyer Point. From 1:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., shuttles will run every 10–15 minutes between 1123 Sycamore Street, Government Square, and the event site. A second shuttle service will also operate from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., connecting nearby parking lots on Culvert Street and Eggleston Avenue directly to Sawyer Point.

“We’re proud to continue supporting the Veterans who serve our community,” said Brandy Jones, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer of Metro. “Offering fare-free rides on Veterans Appreciation Day is one way we can help make it easier for them to join the day’s events and activities.”

Veterans can ride all year long with half-fare by enrolling in Metro’s Veteran Program (MVP). The MVP program is designed to serve the veteran community and remove transportation as a barrier, offering a discount for military Veterans and active-duty military personnel. Once approved, eligible participants will receive an MVP Card. This “tap and show” smart card allows participants to ride Metro for half fare. More information about the MVP program can be found here.

Beyond providing transportation services. Metro actively seeks opportunities to support local initiatives that benefit the residents of the Cincinnati region. By partnering with the Hamilton County Veterans Service Commission for Veterans Appreciation Day, Metro aims to demonstrate its dedication to the well-being and welfare of veterans and military members.