For Immediate Release – January 30, 2020
New Westminster – Today, the BC government announced the renewal of the Universal Transit Pass Agreement (U-Pass BC) between TransLink, public post-secondary institutions, and student associations in Metro Vancouver until 2025. This commitment to the U-Pass BC program is a historic victory that students have been working on for over a decade.
“The Douglas Students’ Union is pleased to continue providing the U-Pass BC program benefits to our members,” said Mitchel Gamayo, Director of External Relations. “This investment improves students’ lives. The U-Pass supports our ability to get around and makes our lives more affordable.”
Since the implementation of U-Pass BC in 2010, students have enjoyed affordable and sustainable modes of transportation, where all three travel zones are included in the cost of U-Pass BC. The renewal of U-Pass BC will continue to foster a generation of transit users, with fewer people driving, less traffic congestion and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. This five-year renewal represents the longest timeframe for a U-Pass BC agreement, providing more stability for students who rely on the program.
Support from the Province and TransLink has enabled affordable student rates with minimal annual increases in the long-term. “With the U-Pass, students can get from campus, to downtown, to see a friend in another municipality, and back again, without ever needing access to a car,” said Judy Darcy, MLA for New Westminster. “The program has been a huge success for our students and for our region, and I congratulate everyone involved on seeing it through to this milestone.”
Between February 2019 to November 2019, Student Associations in Metro Vancouver hosted successful referenda, approving the continuation of the program until April 30, 2025 – and sending a strong message that this is an invaluable service that students depend on.
-30-
Media Contact:
Andrew Dalton
Email: dalton@thedsu.ca
Phone: 604-527-5111
BACKGROUND:
Public Post-Secondary Institutions in Metro Vancouver participating in U-Pass BC:
- University of British Columbia
- Simon Fraser University
- Capilano University
- Langara College
- Vancouver Community College
- Douglas College
- Emily Carr University of Art and Design
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University
- British Columbia Institute of Technology
- Nicola Valley Institute of Technology – Burnaby Campus
Program Details:
The current $41 monthly U-Pass BC rate for unlimited use of transit in Metro Vancouver will remain in place through to April 30, 2020. On May 1, 2020, the monthly rate will escalate to $42.50, with further annual increases through to May 2024 when the rate will be $46.00 until the end of the 5-year agreement on April 30, 2025.