The free ride from SRTA isn't over yet. 

Last year, thanks to a grant from the Department of Transportation, the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority made its fixed route and on-demand service free at the point-of-service from Jan. 1 to June 30. 

That Try Transit program has been extended until Aug. 31.  

That means you don't need any passes or cards or cash when taking the bus — just hop on and off. The program is designed to tempt new customers who normally drive to save gas by commuting, shopping, doing errands and getting around the region via bus, and to give a financial break to people who already rely on public transportation.

Read more from Dan Medeiros at heraldnews.com.