The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) will implement a free transit program for youth aged 18 and under.
This “fair, free transit program” will cover Nanaimo, Lantzville, Parksville and Qualicum Beach, aiming to make transportation more accessible while reducing environmental impact.
The decision comes from an RDN committee of the whole meeting held on Tuesday, March 17th, where the board voted to approve the program after local high school students addressed them for a second time.
Students expressed the need for fare-free transit, noting it would provide options for commuting to school and extracurricular activities.
Many highlighted that they still rely heavily on their parents for rides—meaning if transportation isn’t available, they risk being late or missing class. Making transit free would offer a more reliable and independent way to get to school and activities on time.
Currently, a 30-day bus pass for youth ages 13 to 18 costs $45 while children under 12 already ride for free—meaning the program will remove a financial barrier for families.
The program is expected to provide free bus fare for approximately 8,000 students across the region.
The City of Victoria has already implemented a similar free transit program for youth, alongside cities like Penticton and Kingston.
With the program now approved, thousands more youth across Vancouver Island will soon have greater access to reliable and affordable transportation.
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