In an effort to increase voter accessibility, the Shelby County Election Commission and Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) have teamed up for a unique initiative. On February 23, 2023, they will offer free bus rides across Memphis, coinciding with the early voting phase of the Presidential Primary and County Primary Elections.
Linda Phillips, the Shelby County Election Commission’s Administrator of Elections, emphasized the significance of this collaboration.
“This partnership is important for our community, as it provides voters with equitable access to the polls and voter information,” Phillips said in a statement. “MATA has been supportive in sharing voter information and other outreach activities.”
MATA Interim CEO Bacarra Mauldin echoed the sentiment.
“This partnership is simply a service to our community,” she said. “We strive to not only transform transit but to support efforts that uplift community voice by providing greater access to all.”
This initiative, termed “Be Voter Ready, Free Bus Day,” encapsulates a community-focused approach to encourage civic participation. By removing transportation barriers, this partnership aims to foster a more inclusive electoral process, allowing a broader section of the Memphis population to exercise their democratic right to vote.
