The San Mateo County Transit District board of directors has made permanent a free transit pass for some youth that began in January as a pilot program.
Unlimited passes intended for youth for free rides on SamTrans buses expire on August 31, but will continue for those classified as socioeconomically disadvantaged by the California Department of Education.
A survey of county families found strong support for the passes, which the transit agency says were used for nearly 200,000 trips from January through June. These include students who are eligible for the free or reduced-price meal program, homeless students, foster youth, migrant students or whose parents did not graduate from high school.
"With the Youth Unlimited Pass Program now becoming permanent, we are establishing a strong connection between the next generation of transit riders and SamTrans," said Peter Ratto, SamTrans board chairman. "This program is a wonderful collaboration with the San Mateo County Office of Education."
"This action not only provides important transportation options for students, but also helps them develop confidence in public transportation, as well as practice environmentally responsible habits," stressed Nancy Magee, county superintendent of schools. "We are proud to partner with SamTrans in this effort."
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