This blog post explains a new public safety initiative from the Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA): free bus rides during periods of extreme cold to help residents reach warming centers and emergency shelters.
I’ll summarize how the program works, when it will be activated, which community partners are involved, and practical steps residents and service agencies should take to stay safe during severe winter weather.
What the WSTA cold-weather free ride program covers
Starting November 11, the WSTA will offer complimentary bus service on days when extreme cold conditions threaten public safety.
The service is intended to ensure safe, reliable access to designated warming centers and emergency shelters distributed across Winston-Salem.
The policy uses the apparent temperature (including wind chill) as the trigger: when temperatures are forecast to be 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below for at least four consecutive hours, free rides will be activated.
The National Weather Service forecast will be the official source for determining qualifying days.
Key operational details
On qualifying days, free service will be available from the start of the day’s bus operations until 10 a.m.
Riders should check the WSTA website for the latest information on which routes are participating and the locations of warming centers.
This limited window prioritizes early-morning access to safe, warm locations when temperatures are often at their coldest.
Who the program helps and how to access services
The initiative is designed to protect vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children, people with medical conditions, and those experiencing homelessness.
By coordinating transit and shelter services, the city aims to remove transportation barriers that can prevent people from reaching life-saving warmth during extreme cold events.
Transit riders and community partners should remember the most important operational points:
Warming centers and emergency shelters
The city’s network of warming centers ensures geographic reach so residents can access help quickly.
Established emergency shelters such as the Bethesda Center, The Dwelling, and Samaritan Ministries will be open to people experiencing homelessness.
These organizations provide warm space, meals, and connections to longer-term assistance.
Why this matters: public health, equity, and coordination
Simple transportation barriers often decide whether a person survives an extreme weather event.
This program uses existing transit infrastructure to increase resilience and reduce harm.
It also demonstrates effective cross-sector coordination—public transit agencies, social service providers, and the National Weather Service working together to protect lives.
For municipalities, this model is scalable and cost-effective compared with ad hoc emergency responses.
What residents and community groups should do now
If you or someone you know could be affected by extreme cold, take these practical steps:
Check the WSTA website regularly for route details and schedule updates.
Share this information with your community to ensure everyone can stay safe when the cold sets in.
Here is the source article for this story: Winston-Salem offers free bus rides to warming centers amid extreme cold