Beginning Saturday, February 19, a second COASTER passenger can ride free when accompanying a fare-paying passenger or monthly pass holder. The special 2-for-1 promotion is available only on Saturdays and will run through Saturday, May 28, 2005.

Families and couples can use one valid ticket or monthly pass for two passengers when they ride the COASTER to reach their favorite coastal destinations. The COASTER has stations in Oceanside , Carlsbad (2), Encinitas, Solana Beach , Sorrento Valley , Old Town and downtown San Diego.

As always, children ages five and under ride free on COASTER trains. Transfers from the COASTER to San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, San Diego Trolley and BREEZE buses are free with two hours of validation for fare-paying passenger only. Companions riding the COASTER for free must purchase the trolley/bus fare when transferring.

On Saturdays, four trains leave for San Diego from Oceanside at 9:35 a.m., 11:52 a.m., 3:10 p.m. and 5:28 p.m. Trains return from Santa Fe Depot in downtown San Diego at 10:45 a.m., 1:05 p.m., 4:22 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.

For complete trip planning information, call toll free 1-800-COMMUTE, or plan your trip on-line at www.sdcommute.com. For hearing-impaired assistance call 1-888-722-4889 (TTY).

NCTD supplies public transportation for all of North San Diego County. The BREEZE has a fleet of 165 buses covering 51 fixed routes. The COASTER commuter rail service operates at eight stations between Oceanside and San Diego. It includes seven locomotives and 28 bi-level passenger train cars providing 122 trips each week. The transit agency employs a staff of nearly 600 dedicated professionals whose specialty is moving people throughout San Diego County every day of the year.