Thanks to a provincial grant, Transit services is launching a Fare Assistance Pass pilot program, which will reduce monthly passes up to 55 per cent for those who qualify. The funding that will offset the cost of the reduced monthly passes is through the Province’s Low-Income Transit Pass grant, which has supported many other communities throughout Alberta to allow for affordable and accessible transit.
“Implementing a pilot program such as this will support our riders to easily move about our community with a little less stress on their finances,” said Jeremy Bouw, Manager, Transit & Fleet Services. “Our priorities for public transportation are ensuring affordability, rider safety, reliable movement throughout the community, and being environmentally friendly. The Fare Assistance Pass will support all these priorities by providing a reduced rate for our current riders, and giving those who could not access our services before, an opportunity to purchase a monthly pass.”
“With the inflation crisis making it more expensive to drive, it is critical Alberta’s government ensures vulnerable Red Deerians who use public transit can do so easily and affordably. Expanding this program allows us to help more Albertans get from point A to point B.”
Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services
To qualify for the reduced monthly pass, riders must meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Receiving
- Assured Income for Severely Handicapped (AISH)
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Alberta Income Supports
- Current tenants within the Red Deer Housing Authority Program
- Qualify under the Low Income Cut Off
- Approved for The City of Red Deer’s Recreation Fee Assistance Program.
The Fare Assistance Pass will officially come into effect November 1, 2023, but the application process begins immediately. Applications can be made in person at Sorenson Station or online.
For more information on the Transit Fare Assistance Pass program, visit www.reddeer.ca/Transit.