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Yesterday, 144 public transportation systems participated in the national “Dump the Pump Day” to encourage Americans to use public transit services instead of driving their automobiles for a day, according to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).

In addition to the public transportation systems, at least 18 public and private organizations promoted the event for a total participation of 162 organizations, APTA officials said in a prepared statement.

Sponsored by APTA in partnership with the Sierra Club and the National Resources Defense Council, the event is designed to raise awareness of the money-saving and environmental benefits of public transit.

“Using public transportation is more effective than driving and owning a car,” said APTA President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Melaniphy. “It’s not surprising that with the volatility in gas prices, more and more Americans are turning to public transit.”

Households can save nearly $10,000 a year when they use public transit over automobiles, according to APTA’s latest “Transit Savings Report.”