LOWER LAKE, Calif. – Lake Transit Authority has announced that the bus is back and it is free on Fridays.

On Tuesday, Sept. 3, all Lake Transit bus routes and schedules returned to full operation.

Bus service was restored to the same level operated prior to the July 29 start of a labor dispute between Teamsters Union Local 665 and Paratransit Services, the company that contracts with Lake Transit Authority to operate the buses.

The transit agency plans to welcome passengers back with free bus service on each Friday in September.

“Free Fare Fridays is our way of thanking bus riders for their patience,” said Lake Transit Authority General Manager, Mark Wall. “We have heard from many of our passengers about the hardships they encountered during the strike, and we hope that the free fares help to express our appreciation for their understanding during this difficult time.”

He added, “Fares are free on all routes and for elderly and disabled passengers using Dial-A-Ride services every Friday in September.”

Employees of Paratransit Services voted to strike for an indefinite period beginning July 29. The company operated very limited schedules until Aug. 16 when service was restored to 60 percent of the prestrike level.

On Aug. 22, additional schedules were added bringing service to 88 percent of the normal level.

Last week, Teamsters Local 665 and Paratransit Services settled on a new three-year contract.