On July 21, the Spokane Transit Board of Directors approved a new fare policy that creates a zero-fare pass for youth ages 18 and under.
This move is made possible through a recent state transportation funding package the Washington State Legislature approved in March. Funding for transit agencies that provide the zero-fare pass for youth comes from the new Transit Support Grant program, which is part of the Move Ahead Washington legislation. Through the program, STA will receive funding to support unlimited rides for youth who have the zero-fare pass.
“We are thrilled to offer zero-fare bus rides to our region’s youth,” said STA CEO E. Susan Meyer. “This is an exciting new initiative that builds on the success and regional support we’ve seen with the Summer Pass program.”
The new zero-fare pass will be accepted on all buses beginning on October 1. STA currently offers Summer Pass, a free youth pass good for unlimited rides, but the program ends September 30. With the new zero-fare policy, regional youth will be able to continue riding without paying a fare. Learn more at spokanetransit.com/reducedfare.