City of Kamloops introduces new affordable bus pass program

The City of Kamloops and BC Transit are working together to bring low-income households more affordable bus passes.

According to the City, the two have launched "CityPASS," a new affordable bus pass program that started on Tuesday. CityPASS lowers the transportation cost barrier by providing a discounted adult monthly bus pass to eligible Kamloops residents, making it easier to access work, school, medical appointments, recreation, and other activities. It will also result in more people taking transit.

In order to be eligible for the CityPASS program, residents must fall under Statistics Canada's low-income guidelines. If you live in a house with just yourself, you must make under $22,186 a year. Families of three, four and five must make under $33,953, $41,225, and $46,757 respectively.

Residents can purchase one month, three months or six months passes. Each month will cost the rider $6.90.

"Transportation affects many aspects of an individual’s life, and the availability of affordable and reliable transportation is an important social determinant of health in a community," wrote the City. "Low-income transit programs have been established in many cities across Canada to help individuals become more active in their community and to help reduce poverty. These programs have proven to be beneficial to communities by providing a greater opportunity to obtain and maintain employment."

For more information on the low-income pass and to see if you qualify, click here.