COTA offers military service members, veterans free rides this month

In honor of those who have served, or are currently serving our country, the Commonwealth Office of Transit Authority, under the CNMI Office of the Governor, is providing free public transportation to all U.S. military service members and veterans this month on Saipan on their demand responsive shared ride program and fixed route service.

COTA Planning coordinator Natasha Palacios told Saipan Tribune they’re extending free rides as a small gesture to show their gratitude for the individuals who have served our nation.

“We wanted to honor and recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans, not just on that special day, [Veterans Day] but throughout the entire month. This initiative is our way of showing gratitude and support for their service,” she said.

Operational hours are from 6:30am to 8:30pm from Monday through Friday and from 6:30am to 8pm on weekends and holidays.

“We, at COTA, want to express our deep gratitude to veterans for their service and sacrifice,” said Palacios. “We believe that offering free rides throughout November is just a small way to honor and recognize their contributions. To all veterans, we want to say thank you for your bravery and dedication. We hope this initiative makes your travel easier and reminds you that your sacrifices are deeply appreciated by our community.”

COTA special assistant for Public Tansportation Alfreda Camacho Maratita shared that COTA is a proud supporter of veterans and military servicemen, as well as an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve member since the inception of the program in 2013. She added that veterans, active military members, reserve components, and their families are also eligible for their normal discounted fare. She shared that with the demand-responsive shared ride program, they can pay a nominal fee of $3 per way, and then on the fixed route, it’s 0.50¢ per ride.

Maratita shared that military service members and veterans have a special place in her heart as several of her family members are currently serving and served.

“At COTA, we remain dedicated to supporting these brave individuals in meaningful ways. We are committed to ensuring accessible and reliable transportation services for our veterans, connecting them to essential resources, healthcare, employment opportunities, and community engagements. Our veterans have served us with distinction, and we are determined to serve them with the same level of dedication, honoring their contributions by helping them navigate daily life with ease and dignity. We are here not only to serve them as valued members of our community but also to support their journey and well-being at every turn. To every veteran, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and a promise to stand by your side as you have stood by ours. Thank you for your service and for being a continued source of inspiration to us all.”

For more information, call (670) 236-2682 or visit transit.cnmi.gov.