Originally funded as a pilot program through a Government of Alberta grant, the Transit Fare Assistance program is now a permanent fare option. During the 2025 budget deliberations, Council approved the program to continue on an annual basis, giving qualified riders an opportunity to purchase a monthly pass at up to 55 per cent below the regular rate.
With this now being a permanent fare option, qualified applicants will need to re-apply annually, with the renewal deadline now being May 31, 2025. Those who have not applied for the program can apply at any time throughout the year.
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.
“One of the greatest outcomes we’ve seen from this program is that we have not seen a significant reduction in regular passes being sold, meaning those who could not access our services before now have an opportunity to purchase a monthly pass,” said Jeremy Bouw, Transit & Fleet Manager. “This program supports Transit’s priorities of ensuring affordability, rider safety, reliable movement throughout the community, and being environmentally friendly. We look forward to the program’s continued success.”
Since implementing the pilot program in late 2023, more than 2,200 riders have been approved through the program, with 75 per cent of those purchasing monthly passes for $34.
For more information on the Transit Fare Assistance Program, and to apply, visit www.reddeer.ca/Transit.