A local advocacy group is calling for fare-free transit for youth across BC, with a rally planned at the Victoria’s Legislature Buildings this week.
The Victoria Transit Riders Union will host an Earth Day rally on Tuesday, April 22nd from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., with speakers beginning at 4:30 p.m.
The event is part of a broader push to make transit free for teens aged 18 and under across the province.
The timing lines up with Earth Day, when BC Transit is once again offering free rides in Victoria for the day.
That means residents can hop on the bus at no cost, including those heading downtown for the rally.
The protest also comes as other parts of Vancouver Island begin moving in that direction.
In Nanaimo, officials have approved a plan to introduce free transit for youth aged 18 and under, removing what is currently a $45 monthly pass cost for teens.
The program is expected to benefit thousands of students across Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach and surrounding areas, with advocates saying it will help youth get to school, work and extracurricular activities more easily.
Victoria has already taken steps toward fare-free transit for young riders.
Children aged 12 and under can ride BC Transit buses for free across the province, including in Greater Victoria.
The City of Victoria also offers a free Youth U-PASS program for residents aged 13 to 18, allowing eligible teens to ride transit at no cost.
However, the program is not available to all youth across the region, something advocates say needs to change.
Supporters of fare-free transit point to studies showing it can increase ridership, reduce car trips and improve school attendance.
The Victoria Transit Riders Union says it hopes people will take advantage of free transit on Earth Day to attend the rally and support the push for expanded access.
The group is also advocating for broader fare-free transit options, including for seniors and people receiving income or disability assistance.
💬 Join the conversation
No comments yet — be the first to start the conversation
