Fifty-eight per cent of Squamish transit users are students, B.C. Transit officials say. This summer, the provincial Crown corporation is hoping to bump that number up.
For the fifth year in a row, B.C. Transit and the District of Squamish have teamed up to provide free public bus rides in July and August for Squamish residents under 18.
"There is no other program like it in the province," B.C. Transit spokesperson Meribeth Burton said.
Over the past 12 months, B.C. Transit had a total of 204,000 riders in Squamish, a ridership increase of .6 per cent over the previous year. The corporation is always looking for ways to increase that figure, Burton said. From September until June, youth pay $1.25 for a cash fare or $2.75 for a day pass for B.C. Transit.
"Free transit rides will deliver youth to summer jobs, to friends and family, and will help them develop a strong sense of independence," she noted in a press release.
The program encourages youth to learn how to get around on public transportation, Mayor Rob Kirkham stated in an email.
"As they become more comfortable with the local transit system, it will play an important role in developing their independence and responsibility and will help to create a sustainable environment," he said.
For more information on free rides for youth, please call (604) 892-5559 or visit www.bctransit.com/squ.
