Local advocates in Calgary are concerned about the future of the city’s low-income transit pass program as city council debates funding issues during budget talks. With over 130,000 Calgarians currently using the program, officials project that it will cost the city $52 million to fund the program this year, which is an increase of $19 million. Although preliminary budget documents show that Calgary Transit has the budget to cover the funding gap in 2024, it does not have the budget for the upcoming 2025 adjustments. City administration is recommending a one-time allocation of $19 million for the program using money from this year’s projected surplus, but they acknowledge that this funding is not sustainable in the long-term.
The low-income transit pass in Calgary uses a sliding scale system based on income, with the lowest earners paying $5.80 per month, the second tier paying $40.25 per month, and the third tier paying $57.50 per month. Advocates worry about the impact on vulnerable populations if the program is not adequately funded, as transportation is essential for accessing jobs, social connections, medical appointments, and other services. A motion to bring forward ongoing operating funds of $14 million for the program was defeated in a 7-7 tie vote by city council, leading to concerns about the sustainability of the program.
There are differing opinions among city council members regarding the future of the low-income transit pass program. Ward 11 Coun. Kourtney Penner, who voted in favor of funding the program, understands the concerns of advocates and the challenges of relying on one-time funding. Ward 10 Coun. Andre Chabot, who voted against increasing funding for the program, believes that city council will find ways to make up the funding shortfall. Chabot emphasizes the need for the provincial government to take responsibility for transit funding, as it is currently a municipal responsibility. The province temporarily cut funding for the low-income transit pass program earlier this year but eventually reinstated the funds.
The province of Alberta views transit as a municipal responsibility and expects the City of Calgary to manage its low-income transit pass program without further increasing provincial funding. The city council will debate the one-time funding for the low-income transit pass during budget deliberations in November, with advocates like Hilary Chapple expressing their concerns about the potential loss of the program. Chapple, who played a role in creating the program, is committed to ensuring that it continues to provide essential transportation services for low-income residents in Calgary. The fate of the low-income transit pass program in Calgary will be decided during the upcoming budget talks, which will have implications for thousands of vulnerable residents who rely on affordable transportation options.
