Vernon Transit
(CHARLOTTE HELSTON / iNFOnews.ca)
August 30, 2018 - 5:00 PM
VERNON - Kids in Vernon will soon be able to ride the bus for free — sometimes.
The City of Vernon is launching two incentive programs in an aim to encourage more children to take the bus and lighten the financial burden on families who use the bus system.
Starting on Sept. 1, adult bus passengers with a valid monthly pass, DayPASS, U-PASS or B.C. Bus Pass will be able to bring up to four children aged 12 and under to travel with them on the bus for free. On weekends and holidays, the offer is open to adults without a monthly bus pass. There will be no change for children under five who currently ride the bus for free.
“Families and caregivers have told us that they need more transportation options,” says Vernon Mayor Akbal Mund in a press release. “The Kids Ride Free program will provide relief for families who are already using the system and encourage new families to try taking the bus.”
On top of this program, the city together with Vernon Regional Transit is launching the Vernon Regional Transit Class Rides Free initiative. Classes within the Vernon School Distict 22 can apply to travel by public transit for one round trip per year. It will allow students to learn how to use public transit and build the confidence to ride the bus on their own, says active transportation coordinator Angela Broadbent in the press release.
The release states the District of Coldstream and the Regional District of the North Okanagan also have the Class Rides Free program for schools in their regions.
Teachers wanting to learn more and apply for the program should contact the City of Vernon's transportation department.
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