Peterborough Transit Rolls Out New Youth Transit Pass Pilot Program
/Peterborough Transit is launching its new Youth Transit Pass Pilot Program, providing free transit access to youth ages 13 to 18 after school, on weekends, on holidays and during school breaks.
The Youth Transit Pass pilot program was approved by City Council as part of the City’s Transportation Master Plan. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The City of Peterborough wants the Youth Transit Pass Program to support youth mobility, improve access to opportunities, and encourage long-term transit use among young residents.
Early and affordable access to transit removes barriers to opportunity, supports youth mobility and participation, and improves access to employment, recreation, and community activities according to Keith Riel and Don Vassiliadis, Municipal Operations Co-Chairs Councillors
“The Youth Transit Pass Program gives young people the opportunity to build confidence and independence while becoming more familiar with public transit,” they said in a joint statement. “By providing free transit access during key times along with rider orientation, the program will help reduce cost and access barriers for youth across Peterborough.”
“Free transit for youth was a strong request from high school students, members of the Peterborough Youth Commission and Youth Council. City Council endorsed this initiative unanimously,” said Council appointee to the Youth Commission, Councillor Lesley Parnell. “Free transit for youth enables their independence, mobility to participate in after-school sports, jobs, recreational activities, plus they learn to be comfortable with public transit and are more likely to become lifelong transit users.”
Students participating in the Youth Transit Pass Program can ride Peterborough Transit free of charge:
Monday to Friday after school
Weekends
Statutory holidays
Summer vacation
Winter break
March Break
