The Port Authority has joined other transit agencies across the nation for "Dump the Pump Day" in which motorists are being encouraged to ride buses and trolleys as a way to beat high gas prices.

The gasoline boycott, scheduled for tomorrow, is a promotion spearheaded by the American Public Transit Association, representing the transit industry.

Today through Friday, the Port Authority is inviting people to register at its Downtown Service Center at 534 Smithfield St. for a drawing for a free monthly pass on its system.

After housing, transportation is the second-biggest expense for American families, outpacing food and health care. Port Authority Chief Executive Officer Dennis Veraldi said the agency wants to demonstrate that transit offers the quickest, easiest alternative to the high cost of driving.