'Dump the pump' encourages public transit

You can save the planet and money by taking public transit Thursday, said officials promoting National Dump the Pump Day.

Supported by the Regional Transportation Authority, Metra, Pace and Chicago Transit Authority, the event is intended to encourage people to leave their cars behind while traveling to work or other destinations.

It's estimated that riders using public transit across the region save about 150 million gallons of gas a year. For more information or to register for a prize you could win by using the train or bus Thursday, visit the website Drivelesslivemore.com.

Prizes include a Chicago River boat tour, tickets to sports games or transit passes.