Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater announced legislation that dedicates a portion of the County’s recordation tax revenue to Transit Services of Frederick County. The proposal keeps the County’s local bus system fare-free after federal pandemic support ends.
Transit Services began fare-free operations during the pandemic using CARES Act funding. Ridership climbed, and the fare-free approach improved access to work, education, health care, and daily services. The federal funds end in June 2026.
County Executive Fitzwater said the County now needs a permanent funding plan. “Transit services are crucial for community connectivity,” she said. “Our fare-free service has made Transit more accessible for our riders during a time when many families are tightening belts and pinching pennies.”
Recordation tax applies to real estate transfers in the County. Under the plan, the County redirects a portion of those revenues into a dedicated account for County transit operations. County Council Vice President Kavonté Duckett described the approach as “a smart, forward-looking investment in mobility, economy, and equity.”
Fitzwater thanked County and City partners who developed the proposal and stressed the need to keep the system accessible once federal funding expires.
County Council Vice President Duckett and County Council Member Knapp plan to introduce the bill at the County Council’s January 13 meeting.
