DISCOUNTED BUS PASS MAKES TRANSIT MORE AFFORDABLE IN YORKTON

Released on December 20, 2006

Low-income residents in Yorkton can now purchase discounted bus passes for use starting January 1 thanks to a partnership between the Province and the City of Yorkton.

Approximately 1,200 low-income individuals will be eligible to purchase monthly bus passes at a reduced cost. Adult transit passes will cost $15 (regularly $36) and transit passes for dependents that are students aged 16 and under will cost $8 (regularly $20). The province is contributing a minimum of $18,000 to implement the program in Yorkton for one year.

"This program will make life better for low-income families in Yorkton through affordable transportation so they can go to work, look for jobs, take advantage of education and training opportunities and build a better future for themselves and their families," Deputy Premier and Yorkton MLA Clay Serby said on behalf of Community Resources Minister Buckley Belanger. "This initiative is already underway in five other cities, and we are pleased that the City of Yorkton has decided to team up with us and make this valuable program available to its residents."

"City Council is pleased to partner with the Province in making our city transit service more affordable for low-income residents," Yorkton Mayor Chris Wyatt said. "This is a positive move in that eligible residents have an opportunity to increase their mobility and the city transit service will be better utilized."

The City of Yorkton will administer the discounted bus pass program to eligible residents, including people enrolled in the Social Assistance Program or receiving the Transitional Employment Allowance, the Saskatchewan Employment Supplement or the Provincial Training Allowance.

To purchase a discounted bus pass, eligible individuals must complete an application form, then take it along with identification (such as a Health Card) and proof of eligibility (such as a statement of benefit) to City Hall.

For more information about discounted bus passes, contact Community Resources at 306-786-1300 or the City of Yorkton at 306-786-1730.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Miller Community Resources Regina Phone: 306-787-0531 Email: jmiller2@cr.gov.sk.ca

Dave Putz City of Yorkton Yorkton Phone: 306-786-1703