April 22, 2026
Earth Day Showcases the Impact of Sustainable Transit
ALBANY, NY (April 22, 2026) The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) is celebrating Earth Day by encouraging residents across the Capital Region to make environmentally friendly travel choices. By choosing CDTA’s network of mobility options, customers can help reduce emissions, lower their carbon footprint, and support a more sustainable future.
Public transportation plays a vital role in protecting the environment. According to the New York Public Transit Association (NYPTA), transit use reduces dependence on foreign oil and saves more than 1.3 billion gallons of gasoline annually across New York State. In addition to environmental benefits, individuals who use public transit can save around $10,000 each year on transportation costs.
CDTA continues to invest in innovative solutions that make sustainable mobility more accessible. Customers can choose from a variety of “green” options:
Ride Electric: CDTA introduced electric buses in 2020, becoming the first upstate transit agency to do so. Today, the fleet includes 17 electric buses along with 4 hybrid vehicles, all contributing to reduced emissions across the region.
Bike with CDPHP Cycle!: CDTA and CDPHP are celebrating Season 10 of CDPHP Cycle! Customers can utilize more than 600 bikes throughout the region, including 400 electric bikes. Since its inception, CDPHP Cycle! has been dedicated to enhancing sustainable transportation options. In 2025, CDPHP Cycle! had record ridership, with members logging more than 100,000 trips in a single season
DRIVE: CDTA’s carsharing service, DRIVE, offers a network of zero-emission vehicles 24 hours a day, seven days a week. People can book a DRIVE vehicle for just $5 per hour plus a one-time $20 application fee. Customers can pick up a car in either Albany, Troy, Schenectady, or Cohoes.
Northway and Thruway Xpress: If you’re looking for a smarter commute, CDTA’s Northway and Thruway Xpress routes offer a convenient, stress-free way to travel while reducing your environmental impact. By choosing transit over driving, you help cut down on traffic and emissions
FLEX: CDTA utilizes FLEX On-Demand in Guilderland, Clifton Park, Mechanicville, and Saratoga Springs. This service makes getting around easier while supporting a cleaner environment. By offering shared rides, FLEX helps reduce traffic and emissions, making it a convenient, sustainable option for mobility across the Capital Region.
CDTA will also be celebrating by tabling at several Earth Day events across the Capital Region. We also brought an electric bus to Castleton Elementary School for students to explore and learn about the importance of public transit in creating more sustainable communities. For more information on CDTA’s mobility menu, visit www.cdta.org.