Manitoba city launches free youth transit pilot project

Youth in Selkirk are now able to ride transit for free as part of a new pilot project. Joseph Bernacki has more.

A Manitoba city has launched a new pilot program that will see youth take transit for free this summer.

As of Monday, youth in Selkirk can take the bus for free through the NextStop program, making it easier for them to get to school, work and recreation opportunities.

According to the city, the program applies to students aged 12 to 21 who live in Selkirk, students aged 12 to 21 who live outside the city and go to school in Selkirk, and anyone under the age of 21 who attends the Selkirk Adult Learning Program.

The goal of the program is to improve the affordability and accessibility of the city’s transit system.

“Selkirk is helping to lead the way for Manitoba. We’ll be rolling this out in other cities, like Winnipeg and Brandon, but Selkirk, you are ready,” said Premier Wab Kinew at a news conference on Tuesday celebrating the launch of the program.

“So, we’re rolling. We’re making the wheels on the bus roll.”

The city notes that kids five years of age and under can also take transit for free while with a fare-paying adult.

NextStop passes are available at Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive Secondary School, École Selkirk Junior High and the City of Selkirk Civic Office.

Buses run Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.