As gas prices soar, many are looking for alternatives to driving. The Port Authority is encouraging motorists to participate in the second annual National Dump the Pump Day on Thursday by giving up the "pump" in favor of public transportation.

Last year, the effect of Dump the Pump Day on Port Authority ridership was "not discernible," said spokesman Bob Grove. And due to recent cuts in Port Authority bus routes, even fewer participants are expected this year.

"I don't think we're going to see a big jump in numbers for this one day," said Mr. Grove. "But it's about creating awareness and convincing people that leaving their cars would be better for them."

As an incentive, from tomorrow to Friday, commuters can register for a drawing for a free monthly pass -- a Zone 1 pass normally costs $60 -- at Port Authority's Downtown Service Center, 534 Smithfield St.

Dump the Pump Day is sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association, a nonprofit association of more than 1,600 member organizations.

The day is meant to increase ridership by raising awareness of the benefits of public transportation.

"Americans love their cars, but we know from experience that once we get people to try transit, we can keep customers because of the economics," said Mr. Grove.

The Port Authority estimates that a commuter filling a 20-gallon tank once a week and parking for $10 per day Downtown would spend about $459 per month -- $384 more than the cost of a monthly Zone 2 pass.

Riding the bus is also more convenient for riders who would otherwise be wasting time in traffic.

"You always hear about national surveys that show how much productivity we lose as a nation by sitting in a car in traffic," said Mr. Grove. "We hear from new customers all the time who say they have more time to read the paper or do extra work."

Decreasing the number of cars on the road also helps the environment by reducing emissions and conserving fuel.

Mr. Grove brought up a further benefit: "Frequently, customers strike up new friendships with people on the bus."