Sacramento Regional Transit Offers Free Rides to Cooling Centers During Excessive Heat Warning

As Sacramento braces for an excessive heat wave, the Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) is stepping up to provide much-needed relief to residents. From Monday, July 1 through Sunday, July 7, 2024, SacRT is offering free rides on fixed-route bus and light rail services to and from designated cooling centers across the region.

Why This Matters

With temperatures soaring to dangerous levels, the heat can pose significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with preexisting health conditions. By offering free transportation to cooling centers, SacRT is making it easier for residents to access safe, air-conditioned spaces where they can stay hydrated and cool.

How to Access Free Rides

To take advantage of this service, residents simply need to show a screenshot or printed copy of the free ride flyer to the bus operator or light rail fare inspection staff. The flyer is valid only for travel to and from the cooling centers listed below and during the specified dates and times.

Cooling Center Locations and Hours

Here are the designated cooling centers and their operating hours during the heat warning period:

1. Outreach & Engagement Center: 3615 Auburn Boulevard

   • Valid from 8 a.m. on Monday, July 1
   • All-day service on Tuesday, July 2, Wednesday, July 3, Thursday, July 4, Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 6
   • Service ends at 10 a.m. on Sunday, July 7

2. Pannell Meadowview Community Center: 2450 Meadowview Road

   • Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday, July 1, Tuesday, July 2, Wednesday, July 3, Thursday, July 4 (closed), and Friday, July 5

3. 1400 North A Street, Sacramento

   • Open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Monday, July 1 through Sunday, July 7 (including holidays)

4. Wackford Community Center: 9014 Bruceville Road, Elk Grove

   • Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday, July 1 through Friday, July 5 (closed on Thursday, July 4)

5. CH Police Station Lobby: 6315 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights

   • Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, July 2 through Friday, July 5

6. Rancho Cordova City Hall: 2729 Prospect Park Drive, Rancho Cordova

   • Open daily from noon to 10 p.m. on Monday, July 1 through Friday, July 5 (closed on Thursday, July 4)

7. Folsom Police Station Lobby: 46 Natoma Street, Folsom

   • Open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, July 1, Tuesday, July 2, Wednesday, July 3, and Friday, July 5 (no SacRT service in Folsom on weekends)

Stay Safe and Cool

SacRT's initiative to offer free rides to cooling centers is a crucial measure to ensure the safety and well-being of Sacramento residents during this extreme heat event. Remember to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours, and take advantage of these cooling centers if you need relief from the heat.

For more information on SacRT services and the cooling centers, please visit the SacRT website or contact their customer service.

Stay cool, Sacramento!