NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Hampton Roads Transit experienced a significant surge in ridership on Juneteenth, June 19, carrying 50,876 customers, which marks a 58% increase from the same day last year. HRT attributes the sharp rise to free fares and a convergence of weekend festivals across Hampton Roads.
Juneteenth, one of four annual fare-free days for Hampton Roads Transit, saw this substantial growth driven by several major events. These included Juneteenth celebrations, Sail250 Virginia, the 50th anniversary of Harborfest in Downtown Norfolk and the Portsmouth Seawall Festival.
HRT customers utilized all modes of transit offered, including bus, VB Wave trolley, Tide light rail, Elizabeth River Ferry, Paratransit and OnDemand Ridesharing…