Winnipeg, MB – The City of Winnipeg and Manitoba Public Insurance are helping Winnipeggers to get home safely this New Year’s Eve by offering free transit after 7 p.m.
“The Free Ride program allows Winnipeggers to celebrate safely on New Year’s Eve,” said Councillor Matt Allard, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works. “Winnipeg Transit, with support from Manitoba Public Insurance, offers a free and easy option to get home at the end of the evening, while helping to keep the roads safe by preventing alcohol-related tragedies.”
The Free Ride program applies to all Regular and Handi-Transit service starting December 31 at 7 p.m. until end of service. The last buses leave downtown at approximately 1:35 a.m. For complete bus route and schedule information, visit winnipegtransit.com or contact 311.
“We all want to start 2020 on a safe and happy note planning ahead before heading out is important,” said Satvir Jatana, Vice-President, Employee and Community Engagement, Manitoba Public Insurance. “The New Year’s Eve bus is a safe option for those people who not only consumed alcohol, but also drugs. The goal for all road users should be making 2020 one of the safest year on our roads.”
Manitoba Public Insurance has sponsored the Free Ride New Year’s Eve service since 2011. As a road safety leader in the province, Manitoba Public Insurance is committed to reducing alcohol-related collisions, deaths and injuries.
“We want to remind everyone to make good decisions this holiday season. Find a safe way home,” said Staff Sargent Sean Pollock, Winnipeg Police Service.
Last year, more than 15,000 revelers used Winnipeg Transit’s Free Ride program as part of their plan to get home safely on New Year’s Eve.