11th Annual 'Dump The Pump' Encourages Drivers To Use Public Transit

DENVER (CBS4) - Denver's Regional Transportation District is taking part in the 11th annual National Dump the Pump Day on Thursday and encouraging commuters to ride transit.

The slogan for this year's day is "Dump the Pump. Ride Public Transit." The designated day suggests people utilize public transportation for getting where they need to go, instead of driving a car.

It began in June 2006 when gas prices were $3 a gallon. The national day highlights buses and trains as a convenient travel option that helps save money. According to the American Public Transportation Association, individuals in a two-person household can save an average of $9,312 annually by downsizing to one car.

Public transit also contributes to the local economy it is part of, and the APTA says every $1 invested generates $4 in economic returns.

Mass transit in place of individual vehicles can also help reduce pollution.