Codiac Transpo offers free U-12 bus passes

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Codiac Transpo, which operates bus service in Moncton, Dieppe and Riverview, is launching a new free bus service for children under 12.

“The U12 pass gives children under the age of 12 unlimited free access to travel on all Codiac Transpo routes,” Codiac Transpo said in a news release Wednesday.

The idea of free bus service was discussed at municipal councils last year, as a way to make public transit more affordable for families who the service regularly.

Codiac Transpo said residents of Moncton and Riverview can apply for a pass by filling out an online form on the Codiac Transpo website at codiactranspo.ca. The form should be filled out once for each child. Passes can be picked up the following business day between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at one of the following locations:

• Moncton City Hall (655 Main St.)

• Riverview Town Hall (30 Honour House Ct.)

• Codiac Transpo headquarters (140 Millennium Blvd., Moncton).

The City of Dieppe has its own youth bus pass, with applications through the city’s website at dieppe.ca. The Dieppe program offers youth free access to public transit. It applies only to Codiac Transpo trips taken within Dieppe city limits. To access the Dieppe service, riders must present their pass upon boarding. Children 11 or under must be accompanied by a user of 12 years or older to use the service. Youth interested in registering for the program can pick up their free pass at the Aquatic and Sports Centre (111 Aquatique Street) or at City Hall (333 Acadie Avenue).

“By introducing the U12 pass, we hope to make public transportation more accessible and convenient for families in the tri-community,” Angela Allain, director of public transit, said in a news release. “This initiative not only encourages sustainable travel but also provides an opportunity for children to learn about public transportation and become familiar with the benefits it offers.”