Manitoba rolls out free transit for youth in Selkirk pilot program

Manitoba is set to introduce free transit for all residents under 18 in several cities. Premier Wab Kinew announced the plan, which will begin with a pilot project in Selkirk this summer. The initiative aims to expand to Winnipeg, Brandon, Winkler, and Flin Flon by September. Selkirk was selected for the pilot because of its well-developed transit system. The city will offer free bus travel to students aged 12 to 21 throughout the summer. Additionally, Selkirk plans to bring a bus to schools every year to help students get familiar with public transport.

The province is funding the pilot with £10 million. Selkirk itself will contribute around £500,000 to support the project. Mayor Larry Johannson believes ridership will increase as young people grow more comfortable using buses.

Bus use in Selkirk has already risen sharply. In 2011, the city recorded 13,502 riders, but by 2024, that number had nearly tripled to 35,642. The free youth transit programme will first launch in Selkirk before expanding to other cities. The initiative is expected to boost ridership and encourage long-term transit use among young residents. The province and local authorities are investing heavily to make the project a success.