As part of Transit Month at Downtown On the Go (DOTG), the organization announced today it will be conducting group ride events, giving away free ORCA passes, and encouraging the use of transit through interactive promotions on Facebook. DOTG wants to make sure those who live, work or play in downtown Tacoma know that they still have many transit options. DOTG’s group rides will help new riders read bus schedules, get on and off the bus, and use tools in place to make the ride easier. All participants will receive an ORCA pass (worth $5) loaded with $12 E-purse. In order to make sure there is an ORCA card for each rider, riders are asked to RSVP to dotg@tacomachamber.org or (253) 682-1739. The event schedule includes:

Tues., Oct. 18, “Try the bus with DOTG” — Meet at the TCC P&R at 7 a.m. and take one of many downtown routes to 10th and Commerce.

Thurs., Oct. 20, “Bus to lunch” — Meet at 10th and Commerce (near Frost Park) at 11:45 a.m. Take the 16 to the Rosewood Cafe and return by 1:15 p.m.

Tues., Oct. 25, “Try the bus with DOTG” — Meet at the South Hill Park & Ride (3300 94th Ave E) at 7 a.m. and take the NEW Route 400 (Puyallup Express) into downtown Tacoma.

Thurs., Oct. 27, “Bus to social hour” — Meet at 10th and Commerce (near Frost Park) at 4:50 p.m. and take the Route 11 to Sixth Avenue. Depending on interest, this event could include multiple stops.

For more information, visit http://www.downtownonthego.org .