River Valley Transit Authority, which operates the mass transit buses throughout Greater Williamsport, wants to thank its riders with fare-free travel today.

Additionally, administrative staff will make surprise appearances on undisclosed buses to hand out thank you gifts to riders.

“Rider Appreciation Day” is a statewide initiative developed in coordination with the Pennsylvania Public Transportation Agency (PPTA) and transit agencies across the Commonwealth, RVTA officials said.

Many transit agencies are offering customers a complimentary ride today as a show of appreciation for continued ridership.

People living in Williamsport and the surrounding areas have been provided public transportation with the bus service for over 50 years.

“We are appreciative of all the riders in Muncy, Hughesville, Montoursville, Loyalsock Township, Montgomery and Jersey Shore,” authority officials said.

“Each May we are glad to recognize all of those that use River Valley Transit and encourage everyone to try transit. Now is the time to learn that it is simple, safe and affordable,” said Todd Wright, RVTA executive director.

“Transit is an essential part of Pennsylvania’s economic success. Our riders recognize whether it’s to get to work, educational opportunities, health care, or recreation and play, public transit takes them there. We appreciate their strong commitment to transit as their preferred mode of transportation,” said Sheila Gombita, PPTA board chair.