Metra Lets Medical Personnel Ride Free Through August

CHICAGO — Doctors, nurses, EMTs, paramedics and other medical personnel can continue to ride Metra trains for free through the end of August, according to a news release from the commuter rail service. Medical workers have not been required to pay train fare since the pandemic began in April.

To ride for free, Metra officials said to simply present a work ID from a hospital, doctor's office, medical facility or local fire department to a conductor.

"We recognize the heroic work being performed by these men and women who bravely continue to show up at work every day and save lives during this crisis, and this was our way to show our gratitude," said Metra CEO and executive director Jim Derwinski in a statement.

Officials said workers continue to clean high-touch surfaces as frequently as possible and at least once a day to ensure a safe ride. Hospital-grade air filters capture airborne particles, improving the air quality of trains, and hand sanitizer dispensers are being installed in all trains over the summer, according to Metra's website.

Officials said there are currently no plans to extend free rides beyond August. For more information, visit: https://metrarail.com/coronavirus.