Winnipeg, MB. - The City of Winnipeg and Manitoba Public Insurance are partnering to ensure New Year's Eve revelers get home safely by offering free transit service on New Year's Eve.
The Free Ride program applies to all Regular and Handi-Transit service starting at 8:00 p.m. until end of service. The last buses leave downtown at approximately 1:38 a.m. For complete bus route and schedule information, visit Winnipeg Transit or call 311.
“The Free Ride program allows Winnipeggers to celebrate safely on New Year’s Eve,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “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.”
As a road safety leader in the province, Manitoba Public Insurance is committed to reducing alcohol-related collisions, deaths and injuries. Providing the New Year's Eve transit service in Winnipeg makes perfect sense.
“We encourage people to plan ahead and make the right decision,” said MaryAnn Kempe, vice-president, Community and Corporate Affairs, Manitoba Public Insurance. “If you drink, don’t drive. There are options to get home safely - take advantage of the transit buses.”
Last year, more than 12,000 people rode the bus for free on New Year's Eve in Winnipeg.
The Free Ride New Year's Eve service is sponsored by Manitoba Public Insurance, QX 104 FM and Fab 94 FM.