CARTA is excited to announce that the Read & Ride program, a partnership with the Chattanooga Public Library, has been extended permanently due to its overwhelming success with over 10,000 trips! Initially launched in June 2024 as a pilot, the program provides free bus passes to K-12 students who participate in the library’s reading challenges, enabling them to explore Chattanooga and access library resources with ease.
The Read & Ride program not only provides students with free transportation but also supports families by covering the fare for an accompanying adult with passes for K-5th graders. This initiative fosters independence for students while ensuring accessibility for families who may face transportation challenges.
How It Works:
- K-12 students can receive free CARTA bus passes by signing up for the library’s reading challenges.
- Registration is available at any library location, through the Beanstack app, or online at chattlibrary.beanstack.org.
- If the card has a RED sticker (K-5th), the student may have one guardian (18+) ride for free with the student. The student must be present for the guardian to ride for free. The student needs to be stopped and checked for a guardian.
- If the card has a GREEN sticker (6th-12th), the student does not need a guardian. The student is good to go.
CARTA is proud to support this transformative program, providing opportunities for students to engage with their community and access vital educational resources. For more information about CARTA’s routes and services, visit gocarta.org.
To learn more about the Chattanooga Public Library’s programs and events, visit chattlibrary.org.
Together, CARTA and the Library are creating opportunities for the next generation to thrive.