BC Transit set to introduce free passage for children 12 and under

Cmon' and take a free ride! BC Gov't announces
plans for Free Transit for children 12 and under

Starting in September, children 12 and under can ride the buses of BC Transit for free, the program part of the provincial government's commitment towards efficient, reliable and affordable transit for families.

The free ride initiative which will start on September 1st was outlined today by Premier John Horgan, who noted how it may lead to a new generation of transit riders in years to come.

“Free transit for children 12 and under makes life more affordable for families. Taking public transit is a great choice. It offers a cleaner, low-carbon way of getting around that works for people, communities and the environment. The ‘Get on Board’ program will also encourage a new generation of transit riders.”

To help build awareness for the upcoming launch of this program, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has released an official logo featuring the slogan “Get on Board – Kids 12 and Under Ride Free.” TransLink and BC Transit will incorporate the provincewide “Get on Board – Kids 12 and Under Ride Free” branding into their marketing materials to raise awareness as the program moves forward.

BC Transit, which operates transit services through a contract basis in Prince Rupert outlined how the program will be put in motion for its transit operations.

Unaccompanied children aged six to 12 will be able to ride buses and HandyDART for free, without requiring a fare product or identification. 

BC Transit will require children aged five and under to be accompanied by a person 12 or older. 

While travel for children 12 and under will be free, parents/guardians remain responsible for providing adequate provisions for the safety and care of their children whenever travelling on transit, including when travelling unaccompanied and determining if their children may take transit unaccompanied. 

More from the provincial announcement can be reviewed here.

A look at the Get on Board program can be found here.

More notes on Transit in the Prince Rupert and Port Edward area is available here.