The government of Alberta is contributing up to $15 million for low-income transit programs across the province in an effort to make life more affordable, including Airdrie.

The funds going to these communities will be available to help pay for operating costs. The following Alberta communities currently employ a low-income transit pass program:

  • Airdrie 
  • Banff
  • Canmore
  • Cochrane
  • Cold Lake
  • Fort Saskatchewan
  • Grande Prairie
  • Medicine Hat
  • St. Albert
  • Strathcona County

“The City of Airdrie is a leader in developing and investing in affordable transit programs. City programs have been in place for over two decades, and the current program, Airdrie Fair Access, improves access to municipal services, including transit and recreation, for more residents than ever," explained Chris MacIsaac, Team Leader of Transit for Airdrie.

MacIsaac also mentioned they welcome the Government of Alberta’s investment in transit affordability programs with open arms.

"The funding from the province will help ensure all residents can access safe, accessible, and affordable public transit services within the community and throughout the region. We look forward to ongoing funding from the province to make life more affordable for all residents.”  

This year, Calgary and Edmonton each received $4.5 million to provide their low-income transit pass programs through 2022-23. An additional $6 million in funding will be used to support low-income transit pass programs for municipalities across the province, which will be available to pay for some operating costs.

According to Matt Jones, Minister of Affordability and Utilities, this investment will help make public transit more accessible and affordable for those who rely on it for work and their everyday transportation needs.

"It is another important piece of our Affordability Action Plan to help families, seniors and vulnerable Albertans save money for what matters most.”

The details on how communities can access this funding will be shared directly with eligible municipalities at a later date. 

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