(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

successful pilot program

Red Deer makes transit fare assistance program permanent

Apr 15, 2025 | 10:42 AM

Transit fare assistance in Red Deer is now permanently available.

Originally a pilot program funded by the Government of Alberta, and which gives riders the chance to buy a monthly pass up to 55 per cent off, the program was approved to continue onward during 2025 budget deliberations.

The renewal deadline for qualified applicants is May 31, 2025, with annual renewal required.

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.

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“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 [Red Deer] 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 implementation in late 2023, more than 2,200 riders have been approved, with 75 per cent purchasing $34 monthly passes.

For more information on the Transit Fare Assistance Program, and to apply, visit www.reddeer.ca/Transit.

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