Oakville youth, seniors can board this for free starting in May

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Published April 4, 2023 at 3:58 pm

Beginning May 1, both youth and seniors will be able to ride Oakville Transit for free. OAKVILLE TRANSIT PHOTO

With apologies to the Edgar Winter Group, “come on and take a free ride” on Oakville Transit.

Beginning May 1, both youth and seniors will be able to ride Oakville Transit for free.

Transit will be fare-free for youth, ages 13 to 19, and seniors, 65 and over, who have a valid Presto card and tap on when boarding.

This will allows Oakville Transit to track ridership numbers, with data used to help inform future services and improvements.

“Providing free public transit for youth and seniors is an important investment Council is making to enhance transportation options for the overall well-being of our community,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton. “Removing the cost to travel on Oakville Transit means more people can get around town more easily and will increase uptake in transit usage.

“Free transit promotes sustainability and equity and supports Council’s continued efforts to create a thriving and livable Oakville.”

The free transit program for youth and seniors was approved by Council as part of the 2023 budget earlier this year.

This permanent service applies to all Oakville Transit routes and services, seven days a week – conventional fixed routes, school special routes, care-A-van, Home-to- Hub and Ride On-Demand.

In an effort to distribute PRESTO Cards before May 1, a limited number of free cards are also now available until April 21, while quantities last.

Customer’s must show ID with proof of age to get one of the free cards. They are available at the following locations:

  • ServiceOakville counter
  • Town Hall, 1225 Trafalgar Road
  • Oakville Transit, 430 Wyecroft Road

PRESTO cards can also be purchased anytime for a one-time fee of $6 at local Shoppers Drug Mart locations, Oakville GO station, Oakville Transit and Town Hall.

For more information, visit oakvilletransit.ca.

Oakville Transit has been offering free transit for kids 12 and under since 2021.

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