EDMONTON – NEWS – The Government of Alberta is investing $6.2 million over three years towards a Low Income Transit Pass in Edmonton.
As part of their joint efforts to reduce and prevent poverty, the City and Province are developing a cost-shared Low Income Transit Pass to increase access to public transit and connect families to community supports and resources.
“A Low Income Transit Pass in Edmonton will make it easier for families to get around the city to access jobs, education, health care, community resources and government services. Our government is proud to partner with the City on this important initiative to reduce poverty and help families make ends meet,” Irfan Sabir, Minister of Human Services.
“Making public transit more affordable and accessible will enable more Edmontonians to reach their workplace, meet their health needs and take part in the community. This is a key End Poverty Edmonton recommendation and significantly advances the city’s partnership with the Alberta government on meeting the needs of our vulnerable population,” added Don Iveson, Mayor of Edmonton.
Quick facts
- Eligibility for Edmonton’s pass will be based on 100 per cent of the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO).
- The City of Edmonton estimates 20,000 people each month would be eligible for, and make use of, a low-income transit pass program.
- Human Services will cost share the total $12.4 million required over three years. The Government of Alberta will provide $213,000 in 2016, $2 million in 2017 and $4 million in 2018.
