Subsidized passes for Red Deer Transit have been extended for a year.
The Transit Fare Assistance Pass, funded through the Government of Alberta’s Low-Income Transit Pass grant, will now be available until March 31, 2025. Monthly transit pass are being offered for $34 through the program, a reduction of up to 55 per cent from regular fare.
Since its implementation last October, the City of Red Deer has received 999 applications, sold 684 Fare Assistance Pass cards. There has been a steady increase of monthly passes being purchased. In March, 541 were sold.
“There hasn’t been a decrease in regular monthly passes sold. That means we are reaching new riders using our transit services to move throughout the community,” said Jeremy Bouw, transit and fleet manager.
“Being able to extend this program allows us to get a better understanding as to whether or not we should be considering it as a new fare option moving forward,” he added.
Riders who have already been approved do not need to re-apply with the time extension; they can continue to purchase their monthly passes at the reduced rate until the end of March 2025.
Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services said low income transit options like Red Deer’s Transit Fare Assistance Pass help communities stay connected and ensure vulnerable Albertans are able to get to where they need to go.
“I’m pleased the City of Red Deer’s program will continue for another year and that more people in the City will be able to access jobs, education and health care.”
The program was originally set to end on March 31, 2024. For more information about the Transit Fare Assistance Pass, please visit reddeer.ca/Transit.
