Conestoga Students Inc. (CSI) and Grand River Transit (GRT) are excited to announce Conestoga College students have voted in favour of a GRT universal transit pass (U-Pass) for the Fall 2024 semester.
Of the 9,463 students attending Waterloo Region campuses who voted, an overwhelming 93 per cent made their voices heard and supported the implementation of the U-Pass program at Conestoga College. The U-Pass referendum took place from October 9 to 16, 2023.
This referendum, supported by GRT and Conestoga College, marks the end of a multi-year effort to secure affordable transit options for students in the Waterloo Region.
The universal transit pass program provides unlimited rides on Grand River Transit buses and ION trains at an affordable price. Implemented through an ancillary fee on students' invoices, students will save over $680 annually compared to the existing GRT Term Pass.
"Transit is a critical tool for making our region more affordable, sustainable and liveable," said Karen Redman, Chair of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo. "With this vote, Conestoga College students have chosen to support an easy-to-use and unlimited transportation option to get around the community."
"We are proud to be taking impactful first steps towards affordable transit solutions for Conestoga students," says CSI President Nelson Chukwuma. "Whether students are travelling to campus, jobs, or simply enjoying an outing in the region, a U-Pass will greatly impact students' lives for the better."
The program will begin September 1, 2024, if ratified by Regional Council. This will give post-secondary students at Conestoga College Wilfrid Laurier University, and University of Waterloo access to the same affordable, equitable and sustainable transportation program.
