Fayette transit Officials: Abandon your car for a week Author: Mark Hoffmann Source: Daily Courier Date: September 18, 2011 Beginning tomorrow, Fayette County's only public transit system will hold a week of special events in recognition and support of "National Try Transit Week." Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation announced they'll be participating in activities Monday through Friday by encouraging all Fayette County citizens and visitors to the county to use the bus. "We want everyone to have an opportunity to breathe a little easier and relax a little more as we encourage drivers to abandon their vehicles for one week and give FACT a try," said Lori Groover-Smith, the director of the transit system. She said the service plays vital and positive role and provides many benefits in Fayette County. The total fixed-route ridership in fiscal year 2010 to 2011 was 169,423, which was up 31 percent from the previous year. In August, the system had 16,398 trips, which was up 25 percent since August 2010. Managers believe the system will produce another record-breaker for ridership this year. Those willing to give the system a try can take part in activities, giveaways and special events each day throughout the week. "It's not only important to recognize and thank our regular riders, but exciting to welcome all new riders as well," Groover-Smith said. Those activities include the following: Monday: Try Now (to Win) Day.  Anyone visiting the system's website will have a chance to win a pair of Pirates baseball game tickets.  There will be two chances to win.  Prizes can be picked up at the transfer center on Friday. Tuesday: Free T-shirt Tuesday.  Riders utilizing and visiting the Transfer Center will receive a free T-shirt from FACT. Wednesday: Remember When Wednesday.  Riders utilizing public transit will pay a $1 fare just like in 2004. Thursday: Thirsty Thursday.  Riders will receive a new beverage mug compliments of FACT throughout the day. Friday: Free Ticket Friday.  Hear a jingle on WMBS and win a pair of zoo tickets.  There will be four chances to win throughout the day.  Prizes can be picked up at radio station. Froggy and Pickle radio stations will be giving away zoo tickets on their morning talk shows, as well as WKVE 103.1 FM on Friday.