Peterborough Transit is introducing a free Youth Transit Pass program for residents aged 13 to 18 beginning in September.
The initiative will allow eligible youth to ride Peterborough Transit free after school on weekdays, as well as on weekends, statutory holidays, winter and March breaks and throughout the summer. During summer vacation, pass holders can use transit at any time of day.
City officials say the program is intended to help young people become more comfortable using public transportation while improving access to employment, recreation and educational opportunities across Peterborough.
PTBOToday.ca spoke with Councilor Lesley Parnell who says this is an important addition to the city of Peterborough
Students in Grades 7 and 8 will receive their transit passes during school orientation sessions. Secondary school students can apply online with parent consent and either receive the pass by mail or pick it up in person at the Peterborough Transit Terminal on Simcoe Street using a school timetable or student card. Homeschool students between 13 and 18 years old are also eligible.
Parnell says the program is about more than just free transportation.
The transit pass will only be valid on Peterborough Transit services and cannot be shared with family members or friends. Officials warn passes may be confiscated if they are reproduced illegally or used fraudulently.
Lost or damaged passes can be replaced for a five-dollar fee. The first round of passes will expire in August 2027, at which point eligible riders will need to renew.
Parnell says giving youth greater independence through public transit can create long-term benefits for the community.
Parnell later said “Free transit for our youth creates greater freedom and opportunity for them. And their families.not everyone or every family wants to or can afford a licence or vehicle… students can access their employment or recreational opportunities without a financial or scheduling barrier… More transit riders are beneficial all around for the environment and means we can justify increased route frequency and more provincial gas tax funding. It is win/win/win/win.”
For more information or to apply for the Youth Transit Pass, students and parents can visit Peterborough Transit’s online application portal.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
