CHICAGO (April 21, 2011) – To encourage Louisville residents and Derby Eve revelers to plan ahead for a safe ride home, Miller Lite Free Rides™ is offering free bus and trolley service on Derby Eve in partnership with the Transit Authority of River City (TARC), Kentucky Derby Festival and River City Distributing.
“We hope that those out celebrating on Derby Eve take advantage of Miller Lite Free Rides, and plan ahead for a safe and easy transportation alternative to and from Derby Eve events,” said Diane Wagner, MillerCoors Alcohol Responsibility Manager. “MillerCoors strongly believes that with great beer comes great responsibility. Drunk driving should never be an option, and we encourage all in Louisville to take the responsibility of getting home safely, seriously.”
Miller Lite Free Rides is becoming a Derby Eve tradition. For the third consecutive year, free bus and trolley service will be provided Friday, May 6, from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m., courtesy of Miller Lite. Rides on all regularly scheduled TARC bus routes will be free, and a special free trolley service will run every 10 minutes until midnight on the Main-Market route, just south of Waterfront Park. Bus and trolley service will travel to popular Derby Eve destinations including restaurants, bars, neighborhood events and the Derby Eve concert presented by Miller Lite at Waterfront Park.
“The Miller Lite Free Rides program is a great way to introduce folks to TARC and makes it easier and safer to celebrate on Derby Eve,” said J. Barry Barker, Executive Director for the Transit Authority of River City. “We encourage everyone – Louisville residents and visitors – to take advantage of the free bus and trolley service on Derby Eve.”
For additional route and schedule information, visit www.MillerLiteFreeRides.com, text "FREE RIDE" to 30364 or call 1-800-FREE RIDES (1-800-373-3743).
“Thanks to this unique partnership, our citizens and our guests will have a fun and safe Derby,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “There is no reason for anyone to be drinking and driving with this free service.”
“We are excited that Miller Lite is providing the Free Rides Program once again, because it’s one safe alternative to the tragic mistake of getting behind the wheel while under the influence,” said Chief Robert White Louisville Metro Police Department.
“The men and women of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office encourage safe and responsible celebration of our great Derby Heritage by taking advantage of Miller Lite's generous program of free bus and trolley rides on Derby Eve,” said Jefferson County Sheriff John Aubrey.
Over its 24 year history, Miller Lite Free Rides has successfully helped prevent drunk driving by providing more than 2.7 million free rides during popular holidays and events. The program has gained the involvement and support of law enforcement, public safety agencies and other community and government organizations.
