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A pricey program providing free public transportation fares to Montreal seniors is paying off, town mentioned in a current report because it documented a spike in transit use amongst individuals age 65 and older.
Within the six months because the program launched on July 1, 2023, town mentioned the variety of journeys taken by these within the goal age group surged between 15 and 20 per cent. The findings have been contained in a 2025 price range planning doc town revealed Tuesday.
Forty-seven per cent of eligible Montreal-area residents had signed up for this system by the tip of 2023, town mentioned.
“The measure has subsequently resulted in each financial savings and elevated mobility for seniors,” the doc reads.
First introduced in late 2022, this system permits residents of the Montreal agglomeration — comprised of town of Montreal and suburbs on Montreal island — who’re 65 or older to make use of the metro, buses, commuter and light-rail trains totally free inside the jurisdiction. Paratransit, or specialised rides for individuals with disabilities, can also be free for program beneficiaries.
Montreal devoted $24 million to the initiative in its 2023 price range and earmarked one other $34.3 million to proceed it in 2024. Over the identical interval, town’s financially beleaguered public transit company, the Société de transport de Montréal, has reduce practically $140 million from its personal price range.
However a number of metro riders mentioned Saturday that this system has myriad advantages for older adults.
“I feel that for low-income individuals its a approach to break isolation, to get out,” Huguette Bergeron, 74, mentioned outdoors of the Place-d’Armes metro station downtown.
Anne Chenot, 70, mentioned she sees this system as “little compensation” for prime native taxes.
Each ladies mentioned they’re benefiting from the provide although they might have been in a position to afford the common $97 month-to-month fare. They hope to see related applications focusing on residents who would possibly profit from the monetary aid, comparable to college students.
Robert Martin mentioned this system’s broad eligibility standards are possible boosting participation. A program that limits eligibility by earnings, he mentioned, would possibly create boundaries for potential members who must show their monetary scenario.
Martin plans to register for the free fare when he turns 65 subsequent March. As somebody who has by no means owned a automobile, he expects this system will enhance his mobility.
“Does everybody want it? I’m undecided,” he mentioned. “Nevertheless it’s simpler for (town) than simply asking for proof that you just’re, let’s say, poor or center class.”
By Thomas MacDonald, The Canadian Press
This report by The Canadian Press was first revealed April 27, 2024.
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