Ride On Newsletter December 2025
Ride On Bus Service Changes on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, to Improve Efficiency
The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) will adjust 36 Ride On bus route schedules starting Sunday, January 11, 2026, to improve efficiency and on-time performance. The changes reflect a shift of resources to allow for more reliable service where demand is higher. The new schedules will be available at rideonbus.com and in print.
Route changes include:
- Thirty-one (31) routes have timetable changes: 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 37, 45, 46, 55, 61, 65, 73, 76, 78, 79, 90, 101, extRa Lime, and extRa Pink
- Six (6) routes have bus bay changes: 34, 36, 42, 70, 81, and extRa Pink
Here are details of each route affected:
Ride On Senior Corner: Senior Center Transportation provided by Jewish Council for the Aging
Montgomery County Recreation provides curb-to-curb and fixed route transportation to five of our Senior Centers and two Active Adult Program locations. This free service is available to County residents 55 and over residing within the service area for the centers. If you are interested, please call your local Senior Center or the Senior Programs Team at 240-777-4925 for more information. Senior Centers in this program include Damascus, Holiday Park, Long Branch, Schweinhaut, and White Oak. Transportation is provided for Active Adult Programs at Germantown and North Potomac.
Rosa Parks was an American hero who refused to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, Alabama bus on Dec. 1, 1955. Her actions inspired the local Black community to organize the Montgomery Bus Boycott, led by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The boycott kicked off on Dec. 1, lasted more than a year, and ended only when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that bus segregation was unconstitutional. The year of the boycott was filled with hardship for the Black community, many of whom were dependent on buses for transportation. Parks lost her job and experienced harassment but became a nationally recognized representation of dignity and strength in the fight to end racial segregation.
Annually, December 1 is remembered as Rosa Parks Day.
Park’s role highlighted racism in the public transit system and ignited change. It affirmed that transportation equity is a civil right and highlighted the importance and great responsibility that all transit departments have to ensure that all residents are served equitably.
At the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, everything we do is measured through a lens of equity. Bus fares have been eliminated, to make transit available to all needing transportation options. The department is also continuing local programs that provide free rides to seniors, people with disabilities, and county youth on most Metrobuses within the County.
Throughout December, MCDOT will commemorate her legacy by placing special interior bus cards across the entire Ride On bus fleet, consisting of nearly 400 buses.
What is the 'S' Service Schedule?
When snow, storms, or other special circumstances occur that affect Ride On's ability to follow normal weekday schedules, bus service may operate under the 'S' Service Plan. But how does it work? We've answered some frequently asked questions to give you a better understanding of the 'S' Plan.
What Routes Will Operate Under the 'S' Service Plan?
Ride On will operate all its weekday routes with some service.
How Will Service Under the 'S' Service Plan Differ From Normal Weekday Service?
The link here shows the first and last trips for different parts of the day for each route under the 'S' Plan. Check your route for details. The chart also gives an estimated range for how often buses may run on each route, depending on road conditions. Under this plan, we are trying to provide service on each route with trips evenly-spaced apart and no major gaps in service. Buses will be operating under very difficult circumstances, so any times listed are approximations.
What Are the Fares When the 'S' Plan is in Effect?
There is no change in fare policy on 'S' Plan days.
What Happens if There is a Storm or Special Circumstance on a Weekend or a Holiday?
On weekends, Ride On will deploy resources, buses and operators, based on the normal Saturday and Sunday schedule requirements. We do not expect, however, normal service performance under severe storm or snow conditions. As with the weekday 'S' Plan, we will try to provide service on all those routes scheduled to operate that day, with trips evenly-spaced apart and no major gaps in service.
On holidays, the routes will operate as previously announced, usually meaning a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday schedule. However, the 'S' Plan could be implemented on that day if weather conditions dictate the need.
When Will I Know if Ride On is Operating on the 'S' Service Plan?
The announcement to operate an 'S' Service Plan will be made by 4 a.m. on the day the plan goes into effect, but rapidly changing weather conditions might require a change during the day or evening, e.g. when 2 inches of predicted snow turns into 8 inches. Ride On social media platforms will often be first to announce a switch to the 'S' Service Plan, so make sure to follow @RideOnMCT on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, or X. Listen to local radio or television stations for an announcement that Ride On will be operating its 'S' Service Plan, or check the County’s website at www.rideonbus.com. Other transit services in the area may use the term “S Schedule,” so listen for information about "Ride On’s 'S' Service Plan".
Will Ride On Use the 'S' Service Plan Countywide, Even If Roads are Clear in Some Areas or Conditions Improve?
Once the decision is made to operate the 'S' Service Plan, it will be in effect countywide all day, until 2 AM the next day. We do this because it would be extremely difficult to get our hundreds of buses and drivers back to their regular, more complicated daily operation. Normally at Ride On, buses and their operators move from route to route over the course of a day; during the 'S' Service Plan they remain on the same route all day long.
Will There be Route Detours?
There could be detours on your route because of icy hills or other locations that become dangerous during bad weather. Detours will be listed on the County website at RideOnBus.com under “Delays & Detours,” or call 311.
Your patience is appreciated as Ride On provides the best service possible during difficult conditions. For more information, call 311 or visit the County's website at RideOnBus.com.
Take Ride On to Montgomery County Holiday Lights Displays
Looking for ways to celebrate the holiday season with your friends and family? Montgomery County has multiple light displays that allow those of all ages to enjoy the festivities, and Ride On can get you there! Read on for a list of dazzling displays throughout the county.
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Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens: This year, from mid-November through early January, The Garden of Lights display transforms Brookside Gardens into a magical winter wonderland. Stroll through the one-half mile, outdoor, walk-through exhibit and enjoy the twinkling lights and glimmering one-of-a-kind displays adorning the flowerbeds and grounds throughout the 50-acre horticultural gem in Wheaton. Ride On Routes 9, 10, or 31 can take you close to this festive holiday light display.
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Winter City Lights (Olney): Are you searching for exciting holiday activities in Olney, MD this season? Look no further! Embrace the magic of the Christmas Holiday Light Show at Winter City Lights! Winter City Lights, the largest Christmas light show in Olney, awaits you with over 1 million twinkling lights illuminating 18 acres of outdoor winter wonderland. Ride On Route 53 will take you within walking distance to the Winter City Lights display.
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Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park: Gaithersburg's Winter Lights Festival returns with a stunning display at Seneca Creek State Park, open nightly from November 29 through December 31 (closed December 25). The 3.5-mile drive through the park features over 450 illuminated displays and beautifully lit trees. To visit this one-of-a-kind spot, take Ride On Routes 61, 71, 74, or 78 to Seneca Creek State Park.
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Festival of Lights (Kensington): The Festival of Lights features over 500,000 Christmas lights, Nativity créches and Christmas tree decorations from around the world, and daily holiday performances. Entrance and parking are free. Each weekend, we experience very heavy traffic. In order to maximize your experience, please consider coming Monday through Thursday. The lights are still as beautiful and your experience in the Visitors’ Center will be less crowded. To get to the Festival of Lights, take Ride On Route 4.
What is a Youth Cruiser SmarTrip Card, and Why You Need One
Why Your Child Needs a Ride On Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card
Montgomery County is making public transportation easier and more accessible for students with the Ride On Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card. This card is designed specifically for kids and teens aged 5 to 18, a must-have for young riders who rely on public transportation for school, extracurricular activities, or exploring the county. Best of all, the card is completely free for eligible youth, providing a cost-effective and convenient way to travel. While Ride On is now zero fare, Youth Cruiser SmarTrip Cards will be required for zero fare on Metrobuses within the County beginning February 1, 2026.
What is the Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card?
The Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card functions like a standard SmarTrip® card but is tailored for young people in Montgomery County. It allows unlimited free rides on Metrobus routes within the county. The card eliminates the need to carry cash or purchase single-ride fares, streamlining the process for parents with kids and kids who ride the bus on their own.
Why Do Kids Need a Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card?
1. Free Rides: One of the standout benefits of the Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card is that it offers unlimited free rides on Metrobuses. This ensures that every child has access to reliable transportation without financial barriers.
2. Safe and Independent Travel: The card empowers kids to travel safely and independently within the county, whether they’re heading to school, after-school programs, sports practices, or hanging out with friends.
3. Environmental Benefits: Encouraging kids to use public transportation reduces the number of cars on the road, helping to lower emissions and promote sustainability.
4. Convenience: Parents no longer need to worry about giving their children exact bus fare. The card simplifies the process, ensuring kids can board quickly and without hassle.
5. Community Access: For families without access to a car, the card ensures children can still participate in activities and access educational and community resources.
6. Accountability: The card ensures an accurate count of youth riders, so we can maintain funding for the program.
How to Get a Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card
Obtaining the Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card is simple: 1. Eligibility: Kids aged 5 to 18 qualify for the card. 2. Apply via your kids’ school in Montgomery County or via a county library: Parents or guardians can visit a county location where cards are issued. Proof of age and the city you reside in will be required. 3. Activation: Once activated, the card is ready for use on Metrobuses within the County. Fare may also be loaded to the card for use on Metrorail.
A Commitment to Equity and Access
Montgomery County’s initiative to offer free Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Cards reflects a commitment to equity, access, and community well-being. By removing financial and logistical barriers, the county ensures that all children have the transportation they need to succeed and participate fully in their communities. Whether your child uses it daily for school or occasionally for extracurriculars, the Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® Card is an invaluable resource for families. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make transportation easy, safe, and free for your kids today!
Limited Series: Ride On Reminders
MCDOT Ride On has launched a new campaign focused on reminding riders of appropriate and inappropriate behavior when aboard a public transit system. Dubbed "Ride On Reminders" this campaign includes messaging that encourages riders to keep the peace, refrain from tobacco, cannabis, and alcohol consumption, and respect others' space in a public location. Messages depicting this campaign have been featured on our Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky accounts and can be seen on bus cards and shelter ads across the county.
This campaign is based on the Transit Passenger Bill of Rights, a code of conduct that is posted on all Ride On buses. The Transit Passenger Bill of Rights is a crucial document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of passengers using public transportation. This bill ensures that all passengers receive fair and equitable treatment while traveling, promoting a safe, reliable, and comfortable transit experience. It serves as a guideline for transit agencies to maintain high standards of service and for passengers to understand what they can expect, and what is expected of them, during their journey.
"It's a Bus - Not A Fight Club!"
The fourth message in our series is "It's a Bus - Not a Fight Club!" Ride On asks that passengers treat bus operators and fellow passengers with respect while riding and refrain from fighting on the bus. According to the National Transit Database, violence against transit workers has tripled in the last 15 years, with a large increase seen post-pandemic. Remember that operators have a difficult job to do, keeping Montgomery County moving. Please show them grace and keep your cool when aboard a bus.
Ride On: A Safe Way to Travel This Winter
As winter weather arrives in Montgomery County, Ride On remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation for all riders with our zero fare policy. Whether navigating snow-covered roads or facing chilly temperatures, Ride On’s fleet of buses is prepared to keep you moving throughout the season, ensuring that your safety is our top priority. Let us take care of the roads while you enjoy a warm, safe, stress-free ride with Ride On.
Winter travel doesn’t have to be a challenge. This winter, let Ride On be your trusted transportation partner. Ride On provides a dependable alternative to driving on icy roads or dealing with inclement weather. Our buses connect communities across Montgomery County, making it easier for residents to access work, school, shopping, healthcare, and more destinations without worrying about unfavorable road conditions. With features like the Courtesy Stop program, which allows late night riders to request a stop closer to their destination along a route, we ensure that your journey is safe and convenient every step of the way. Ride On also prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that all riders, including seniors and those with disabilities, can travel safely and conveniently. Most Ride On buses are equipped with features such as wheelchair ramps and low-floor boarding, making boarding and exiting easier, especially in snowy conditions.
We also encourage our riders to take simple precautions to stay safe and comfortable during their winter commutes. Dress warmly, allow for extra travel time, and be mindful of icy sidewalks and bus stop areas. Ride On closely monitors weather forecasts and adjusts schedules as necessary to prioritize safety and minimize disruptions. Riders can stay informed about service updates by following us on our social media platforms, subscribing to our email and/or text alerts, and/or checking out our service interruptions webpage. Additionally, the Ride On Trip Planner app allows riders to track their bus in real time, helping them plan their trips efficiently and reduce time spent waiting in cold weather. Stay warm, stay safe, and choose Ride On for all of your winter travel needs.
Introducing Ride On Flex 918: Zero Fare On-Demand Transit Arriving February 2026
Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is excited to announce the launch of Ride On Flex 918, a zero-fare, on-demand neighborhood transit service beginning January 2026 along the New Hampshire Avenue corridor. The new service will provide fast, flexible, and accessible transportation for residents traveling between Sandy Spring, Cloverly, Colesville, and White Oak.
Ride On Flex 918 is designed to improve neighborhood mobility, connect residents more reliably to major transit services, and restore transit access in areas that previously relied on Metrobus Z2, which has been discontinued. For many households, especially seniors, students, workers, and residents without cars, Ride On Flex 918 brings back a vital link to grocery stores, pharmacies, schools, parks, community centers, and Ride On/Flash routes.
How Flex Works
Ride On Flex 918 is a zero fare, on-demand service. Riders request a trip when they’re ready using either:
· The Ride On Flex mobile app, or
· The Flex Call Center at 240-301-3842, for riders who prefer or require phone assistance.
Once a trip is requested, a Flex vehicle picks riders up and takes them anywhere within the Flex 918 service zone.
Two Areas, One Zone
Flex 918 operates in two overlapping service areas:
• North “Leaf” Area – For most riders, pick up and drop off will be at the nearest street intersection. Curb-to-Curb Service Residents (those registered as disabled) in Sandy Spring, Norwood Road, Cloverly, and nearby neighborhoods can enjoy convenient curbside pickup—particularly helpful in areas without nearby bus stops or sidewalks.
• South “Stem” Area – Designated Stops Along New Hampshire Avenue; travelers in the Colesville and White Oak areas can request trips to and from marked Flex stops, including connections to FLASH and other Ride On services.
Why Riders Will Love Flex
· Zero Fare: All rides are free—no passes, no reloads, no surprises.
· On-Demand: Request a ride when you need it; no schedules or long waits.
· Restores Access: Replaces portions of the discontinued Z2 service in a more flexible, responsive way.
· Accessible: ADA-compliant vehicles and call-center booking ensure everyone can ride.
· Connected: Easy transfers to FLASH, Ride On, and regional transit.
Strong Support for Local Communities
Ride On Flex 918 was designed with input from residents, local businesses, community associations, and county partners. The service enhances mobility for workers, supports students and seniors, and strengthens connections to key destinations including White Oak Shopping Center, Cloverly Village Center, schools, recreation centers, and Colesville Park & Ride.
Get Ready to Ride in February
Ride On Flex 918 represents MCDOT’s ongoing commitment to safe, equitable, and innovative transit options meeting communities where they are and helping everyone move forward. Learn more about Flex at: Ride On Flex - Montgomery County Division of Transit Services
Help Keep Our Bus Stops Clean! Trash Dumping is Illegal at Ride On Bus Stops
Dumping trash from residences at bus stops is against the law in Montgomery County and is considered illegal dumping. Illegal dumping is a serious offense that can result in criminal prosecution. Every case of illegal dumping is investigated. Illegal dumpers are subject to a minimum $500 civil fine and possible criminal prosecution.
Illegal dumping can be costly, but the costs of legal disposal are minimal (if incurred at all). Montgomery County provides one of the most extensive solid waste disposal and recycling programs in the nation. Take advantage of the many facilities the County offers to properly dispose of, or recycle, your unwanted materials.
What is illegal dumping? By definition, illegal dumping is depositing solid waste at a location other than a legally accepted facility. Some common examples include:
- Disposing of your trash in dumpsters or containers that you don't own
- Disposing of your trash along public roadways or in vacant lots
- Disposing of your trash in fields, wooded areas, stream valleys, parklands, or any other unacceptable location
If you see an act of illegal dumping, you can do something to help!
Step 1: Write down information about the illegal dumping. Please record:
- The exact location where the dumping occurred (Most important)
- The license plate number of the vehicle
- A description of the vehicle and person(s) involved
- The date and time of the incident
- Take photos of the dumped material(s).
Step 2: Contact the Montgomery County Customer Service line at MC311. Call 311 (240-777-0311 from outside of the County; 7-1-1 for Maryland T-T-Y Relay). A DEP investigator will return your call and follow up on your complaint. The information you report can help end illegal dumping and environmental abuse. To learn more, visit https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DEP/topics/illegal-dumping/index.html.
Ride On has begun posting signs on bus stop trash cans reminding riders and residents alike of the laws on residential dumping at bus stops. Look out for this signage at a bus stop near you.
Of Note
Ride Metrobus Free with the Youth Cruiser SmarTrip, Senior SmarTrip, and Disabled Rider Reduced Fare Cards
Montgomery County works in partnership with WMATA to ensure that students, seniors, and those with disabilities are able to ride for free within the County with a Youth Cruiser SmarTrip, Senior SmarTrip, and reduced fare card for those with disabilities. The Youth Cruiser cards are available all MCPS middle and high schools, some MCPS elementary schools, and many private schools in Montgomery County. Youth Cruiser SmarTrip cards and Senior SmarTrip cards are available for free at all County libraries, Montgomery County Division of Treasury - Rockville, the Silver Spring TRiPS store, and the Mobile Commuter Store. Residents must bring proof of age and residency to register for their card.
For more information about Youth Cruiser SmarTrip cards, visit Youth Cruiser SmarTrip Card - Montgomery County Division of Transit Services. For information about transit options for seniors and those with disabilities, visit Older adults and Persons with Disabilities - Transit Services - Montgomery County, Maryland.
VanGo & Bethesda Free Circulators and Free Shuttles
Did you know that Montgomery County has two free circulators? The VanGo
Circulator, or Ride On Route 28, makes traveling through Downtown Silver Spring
easy and convenient. Buses run every 30 minutes and serve Silver Spring's art
district as well as community and health centers, lodging, shopping, and
transportation connections. Visit here for more details.
The Bethesda Circulator connects riders to 8 public parking garages, the Bethesda
Metro Station and 20 convenient stops along the way that get you to and from your
favorite Bethesda destination - all for free! Three circulators on route arrive at each
stop every 10-15 minutes. Visit here for more details.
MCDOT also provides free shuttles to recreation centers, shopping, and medical
appointments for some senior populations. Shuttles provide point to point service
while circulators travel a specific route with multiple bus stops.
Why Stay Connected with Ride On Via Social Media?
Social media is an essential tool in staying informed and connected with your favorite transportation agency, Ride On. Through our social media platforms, you can receive up-to-the minute updates on any changes, service interruptions, delays, and detours, and get news on our exciting initiatives, public recognitions, community partnerships, rider stories, and more, allowing us to connect with our Ride On family. Social media also serves as a channel to engage directly with Ride On, offering an opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and participate in public discussions about transportation services in Montgomery County. Following us on social media ensures you’re first to hear our news and we’re first to hear yours! Follow @RideOnMCT on X, Facebook, YouTube, Bluesky and Instagram.
Ride On Christmas & New Years Schedule
Below are the Ride On transportation-related schedule changes for the winter holidays.
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Christmas Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 24
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Ride On, extRa, extRa Lime, extRa Pink, Flex, Flash Orange - Will operate on a Weekday schedule until 10 p.m. No new trips after 10 p.m. View bus schedules here.
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Flash Blue - Will operate on a normal weekday schedule.
- TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center - Will be open 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
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Christmas Day, Wednesday, Dec. 25
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Ride On, extRa Lime, extRa Pink - Will operate on a Sunday schedule. View bus schedules here.
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Flash Orange - Will operate on a Weekend/Holiday schedule.
- Ride On extRa, Flash Blue and Flex - Will not be in service.
- TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center & TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store - Will be closed.
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New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31
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Ride On, extRa, extRa Lime, extRa Pink, Flex, Flash Orange - Will operate on a Weekday schedule. View bus schedules here.
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Flash Blue - Will operate on a normal weekday schedule.
- TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center - Will be open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1
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Ride On, extRa Lime, extRa Pink - Will operate on a Sunday schedule. View bus schedules here.
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Flash Orange - Weekend/Holiday schedule.
- Ride On extRa, Flash Blue and Flex - Will not be in service.
- TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center & TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store - Will not be open.
Ride On Gratitude Corner
This month's piece of gratitude comes from a Ride On rider who wrote in to thank the driver of the buses that get them to where they need to go in the County as a young student.
Dear drivers,
Although I thank you every time I get off bus 74, I want to dedicate this message to every ride from the past three years. Thank you for getting me to and from school every day. Through freezing winters with ten inches of snow and hot summer mornings before football workouts, you were how I made it. With my mother always working overtime as a nurse and my father being a bus driver and college student, I truly relied on you. My dad leaves at five in the morning, and my mom doesn’t get home from her night shift until 10 a.m. Without you, I’d be walking two miles to and from school. Route 74 isn’t just a route to school; it’s a route to my success. Without bus 74, my academic success wouldn’t be possible, and without drivers like you, so many students wouldn’t reach their goals.
Sincerely, a loyal Ride On user
Transit Trivia!
Test your familiarity with Ride On’s routes, services, and more with our transit trivia! The answer will be in next month’s edition of our newsletter so make sure you tune in next month to see if you answered correctly!
Question:
How many riders have used the Ride On Trip Planner app at least 100 times?
- 8,326
- 14,702
- 39,477
- 49,101
Last month’s question:
Which Ride On bus service has had holiday decorated buses since 2021?
- Flash buses
- extRa buses
- Regular Ride On buses
- Flex buses
Answer: (1) Flash Buses
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