If you are one of the estimated 12,728 veterans living in Ulster County, there just may be a half-priced bus ride in your future.  Should legislation sponsored by Ulster County Legislator Kevin Roberts be successful this November, any honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the United States will pay a 50% discounted fare between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. when an official Veterans identification card is presented.

“Transportation choices should never be a barrier for the patriots who have bravely gave of themselves to defend the United States of America,” stated Legislator Roberts in submitting Resolution No. 392. 

With this County sponsored discount, the UCAT discounted bus fare joins two hundred fifty-six (256) other discount opportunities provided by local businesses to veterans in Ulster County.   The F.A.V.O.R. Discount Program (Find & Assist Veterans Of Record) is coordinated by the Ulster County Veterans Service Agency and local veterans can apply for their Ulster County Veterans identification card by stopping in at 5 Development Court in Kingston or calling (845) 340-3190.

According to the United States Census Bureau’s 2008-2012 American Community Survey, 72.5% of veterans living in Ulster County are over the age of 55.  According to AARP’s Public Policy Institute’s 2009 National Household Travel Survey, more than 20 percent of Americans age 65 and older don't drive and more than 50 percent of non-drivers over age 65 normally do not leave home most days, partly because of a lack of transportation options.  While UCAT offers seniors over the age of 60 one free bus ride for shopping and two medical appointment rides per week, veterans of all ages are seeking transportation for employment, returning to college, accessing local veteran organizations, and other community connections.

“Ulster County joins the business community in recognizing and thanking our veterans for their service and dedication,” stated Legislator Roberts. “It is a small sacrifice from the County to recognize the tremendous sacrifices made by our veterans.”