Auburn launches free election-day shuttle service

AUBURN – The city of Auburn believes access to transportation should not be a barrier for anyone wanting to vote. Many eligible voters don’t go to the polls, and sometimes it’s because they simply don’t have a way to get there. The pandemic has added even more of a challenge to exercising the right to vote, whether voting by mail, using a secure drop box, or voting in person.
Auburn is committed to removing as many barriers to voting as possible. As a result, for the first time ever, the city is offering an Election Day Shuttle program.
Auburn residents can schedule a free ride to and from their polling place for Tuesday, Nov. 3. The city will have two shuttle buses servicing all three polling places between the hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“Our goal is to remove transportation as a barrier, and help people get to the polls and exercise their right to vote,” said Auburn’s Assistant City Manager Brian Wood. “We never want transportation to be the reason why someone didn’t vote.”
Rides will be free, and the city’s shuttle buses will be clean and safe. No proof of voter registration is needed, but masks are required. Those wishing to use the shuttle service are encouraged to call 207-333-6670 as soon as possible to schedule their ride. The team at Auburn Public Works will work with callers to determine their polling location and schedule their ride.
“Our drivers will pick voters up right at their residence,” said Wood, “then return them safely home from their polling place.”
“It’s an honor for us to help provide our community with the tools they need to vote,” said Susan Clements-Dallaire, Auburn’s city clerk. “We’re all in this together, and we really hope residents will put this great service to use and come see us at the polls on Election Day.”