San Diego County’s transit agencies are offering free rides on buses, trolleys, and trains to help holiday revelers celebrate safely this New Year’s Eve. Starting at 18:00 on December 31, 2023, and extending into the early hours of January 1, 2024, both the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and the North County Transit District (NCTD) will provide complimentary transportation options.
Extended Service for Holiday Celebrations
In addition to free rides, both agencies will operate extended late-night services. The last trolleys will depart from downtown San Diego after 02:00, while the final COASTER train will leave at 01:20. The NCTD plans to run three additional SPRINTER trains in each direction throughout the evening. This initiative aims to ensure that partygoers can celebrate without the worry of impaired driving.
Stephen Whitburn, MTS board chair and a member of the San Diego City Council, emphasized the importance of safety during this festive time. “The end of the year should be about celebration — that’s why MTS is offering free rides on New Year’s Eve. We want everyone to enjoy the moment and also get home safely,” he stated.
Promoting Responsible Celebrations
Both transit agencies are committed to providing a safe and reliable transport option during one of the busiest nights of the year. Priya Bhat-Patel, NCTD Board Chair and mayor pro tem of Carlsbad, highlighted the initiative’s goal: “By offering free rides and extended late-night service on New Year’s Eve, we’re giving riders a reliable, responsible way to celebrate while ensuring everyone has a safe trip home.”
Comprehensive schedules and service information can be accessed through the transit agencies’ websites at sdmts.com/newyearseve and GoNCTD.com/NewYearsEve.
The provision of free rides coincides with a period known for an increase in drunk-driving arrests. In response, the California Highway Patrol has announced additional patrols to enhance road safety during the New Year’s celebrations.
This initiative underscores the commitment of San Diego’s transit agencies to promote safe transportation options, encouraging community members to celebrate responsibly as they ring in the new year.
