Green Bay offers free bus rides on New Years Eve

GREEN BAY - An effort to curb drinking and driving on New Year's Eve comes with an offer, and a warning.

For the first time, Miller Lite has teamed up with the Brown County OWI Task Force, and Green Bay Metro to give free bus rides.

It's a night filled with tradition.

"New Year's Eve is a huge drinking night. It's right up there with St. Patrick's and the Wednesday before Thanksgiving," said Mike Panosh, Brown County OWI Task Force.

But those who drink and choose to get behind the wheel, have the attention of the Brown County OWI Task Force.

"We'll be out in force, and we're not giving out warnings for OWI. So, if you are drinking and driving, and you're over the limit, you're going to be under arrest," said Panosh.

But an new program is offering a ride on the bus at no charge.

"At Green Bay Metro, we made a decision. On New Year's Eve, we're going to run free all day, from the get-go," said Tom Wittig, Green Bay Metro Transit Director.

Until 3:00 a.m., people can go to any stop on the Metro's 13 routes and catch a ride.

"Another key element are the employees of all the establishments will now be able to use transit and know they can get home safely," said Wittig.

The Brown County OWI Task Force made 7 OWI arrests last New Year's Eve, and 315 during the past three years. Officers say drinking and driving is preventable.

"It's really tragic especially at this holiday time of the year. Our alcohol-related fatalities are tragic no matter when, but when you think about ending someone's life during the Christmas holidays, during New Year's, it's just doubly-tragic," said Panosh.

And a free ride on the bus is cheaper than being pulled over by police.

"We hope everyone has a great New Year's Eve, we want them to do so responsibly. If not, the OWI Task Force will be waiting for them. We don't want to be that hammer, but if people make the wrong decisions, we will be there," said Panosh.

To check on the bus schedule, you can call 1-800 FREE RIDES. If you don't want to take the bus there are other options. The Brown County Tavern League offers a SafeRide program as well.