Winnipeg, MB - Executive Policy Committee today gave the green light to a U-Pass transit program for university students.
Under the program, University of Manitoba and University of Winnipeg students would pay a reduced fee of $260 for a two-semester transit pass.
“We’ve been working with student representatives for many months to come up with a plan that will work for the City of Winnipeg and university students,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “I think this proposal achieves our goal, by providing reduced fares and encouraging long-term ridership.”
Mayor Katz and Councillor Jenny Gerbasi (Fort Rouge - East Fort Garry) moved to establish a U-Pass program at the Jan. 29, 2014 meeting of City Council.
“Under this plan, the savings for students are significant,” said Councillor Gerbasi. “I’m pleased the City of Winnipeg is taking steps to encourage increased ridership.”
Winnipeg Transit anticipates ridership will increase if the U-Pass program is adopted. As a result, the purchase of eight additional buses is required prior to implementation of the program. The target date for implementation is September 2016, or sooner, if possible.
The program requires the student associations to hold membership referendums by Nov. 1, 2014, indicating their support for the program. U-Pass will now be considered at the Feb. 26, 2014 meeting of City Council.