DISCOUNTED BUS PASS MAKES TRANSIT MORE AFFORDABLE IN PRINCE ALBERT

Released on October 5, 2006

Low-income residents in Prince Albert can now purchase discounted bus passes thanks to a partnership between the Province and the City of Prince Albert.

Approximately 6,000 low-income residents are eligible to purchase monthly bus passes at a reduced cost of $15, effectively immediately. Adult transit passes in Prince Albert normally cost $52.50. The province is contributing a minimum of $67,500 to implement the program for one year.

"This program makes transportation more affordable for low-income people in Prince Albert so they can go to work, look for jobs, take advantage of education and training opportunities and build an independent life," Community Resources Minister Buckley Belanger said. "This initiative is already underway in Regina and Moose Jaw, and we are pleased that the City of Prince Albert has decided to team up with us and make this valuable program available to its residents."

"On behalf of City Council, I would like to thank our provincial partner, Saskatchewan Community Resources, for their assistance in this initiative," Prince Albert Mayor Jim Stiglitz said. "We are pleased to participate in programs that alleviate costs for our low-income residents."

The City of Prince Albert will administer the discounted bus pass project 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.

Application forms are available from the local Community Resources office or from Public Works at City Hall. Applicants take the completed application form, along with identification (such as a Health Card) and proof of eligibility (such as a statement of benefit) to City Hall to purchase a discounted bus pass. For more information about discounted bus passes, people are asked to call the City of Prince Albert, Department of Public Works, at (306) 953-4900.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Miller Community Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-0531

Tony Bassett City of Prince Albert Prince Albert Phone: (306) 953-4367