Here’s one way Raleigh is making it easier to vote this year

GoRaleigh buses will be free this Election Day to help people get to the polls.

The decision came during a Raleigh City Council work session Monday afternoon. Raleigh will cover the bus fares on that day, though the exact cost is still being determined.

Several council members referenced that this is something the Durham City Council began doing last year and could be a chance to help get people to the voting booth. It cost Durham about $6,300 to wave the fares on Election Day for last year’s municipal election.

This is a statement by the city about how important voting is, said Mayor Nancy McFarlane.

If city leaders decide to do this for future elections, the fare should be tied to people going to vote, she said. The city will also look to see if there is increased ridership on Nov. 6.

Polls are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. People can find their polling location by visiting https://vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/. GoRaleigh routes and times can be found at www.raleighnc.gov/transit.

Early voting is currently underway.

Anna Johnson; 919-829-4807; @anna_m_johnson