The Government of Alberta announced that it is discontinuing the low-income transit pass grant for Calgary and Edmonton. The Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) is deeply concerned with the government’s decision, as it has a direct negative impact on low-income residents.

The grant has been in place since 2018 and has seen significant growth in Calgary and Edmonton. Through the program, the government of Alberta provided funds to reduce the cost of transit passes for individuals who could not afford them.

“This is the wrong decision at a time when residents are struggling with affordability,” said Marco D’Angelo, CUTA’s President and CEO. “Public transit gives people access to employment, education, and critical services. Individuals experiencing low income deserve to be included in all aspects of society and this decision only increases their marginalization.”

An evaluation by the City of Edmonton showed the program reduced social isolation, improved affordability, and reduced stress for users.

With record population growth in the province, coupled with the current affordability crisis, the low-income transit pass grant was seen as a release valve for many residents desperate for cost savings in their monthly budgets.

“Individuals experiencing low income have to make difficult choices each month, such as whether to pay for public transit or buy groceries,” added D’Angelo. “The low-income transit pass grant helped these individuals tremendously and we call on the government to reinstate the grant.”

-30-

Media contact:
Jon MacMull
Director, Communications and Public Affairs
Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA)
[email protected]