Transit advocates push for low-income pass ahead of fare hike
Movement coalition argues Vancouver is behind peer cities like Toronto and Edmonton in offering discounted transit for lower-income riders.
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A transit-advocacy group is pushing for a low-income transit pass in Metro Vancouver as another fare hike looms on Canada Day.
Movement says Vancouver is one of the only major urban areas in Canada without a discounted pass, despite peer cities like Edmonton, Calgary, Halifax, Toronto, and Seattle all offering them. Toronto's fair pass discount program provides over $30 off a monthly pass for eligible riders earning below 75 per cent of the Low-Income Measure After-Tax threshold. Edmonton offers the Ride Transit Program, while Seattle has the ORCA card.
"Transit is a lifeline to services, community, and economic opportunity, and no one should be excluded from transit because they can't afford it," Movement said.
The group has assembled a coalition of 50+ organizations in support, including the BC Nurses' Union, MoveUP, Vision Zero Vancouver, OneCity Vancouver, and COPE Vancouver. Langley City Council is scheduled to vote Monday night on a motion to request the B.C. Ministry of Transportation expand the BC Bus Pass Program to include low-income households.
Movement is organizing a rally outside Metrotown SkyTrain Station on Canada Day at noon, featuring "rousing speeches" and stories about how a low-income pass would affect residents. One way transit has become more affordable in recent years is the move to make it free for kids 12 and under, in place since 2021.
