The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority is encouraging riders to vote early and safely by using official ballot drop-off boxes in place at 19 rail and bus stations through Election Day, Nov. 3.

Metro will also be offering free rides on all buses and trains on Election Day. Union Station and the El Monte Station will be used as official Vote Centers from Oct. 24 through Nov. 3 for in-person voters who want to cast their ballot early. The voting center at Union Station will be located in the Ticket Concourse on the Alameda Street side of the station.

“The health of our democracy depends on our participation, and we have to do everything possible to empower Americans to exercise their fundamental rights,” said Los Angles Mayor and Metro Board Chair Eric Garcetti. “From free rides on Election Day to new places to drop off a ballot, Metro is doing its part to make sure nothing stands between Angelenos and their ability to vote.”

Metro rail and bus stations where the public can safely and securely drop off their ballots include Union Station and the El Monte Station, as well as the Hollywood/Western, Vermont/Santa Monica, Wilshire/Vermont, North Hollywood and 7th Street Metro Center stations on the Red and Purple subway lines. Drop-off locations will also be offered at numerous other stations.

“We want to make it easy for people to reach the polls or vote by mail and cast their ballot this election,” Metro CEO Phillip A. Washington said. “Democracy works best when everyone participates in it and has a voice, and we want to ensure that voting is easy and accessible to all those who rely on the Metro system.”

 For a list of drop-box locations, visit metro.net.