Brandon City Council will discuss a proposal to bring free transit to young people at its regular meeting on Monday, August 17, 2026. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Civic Administration Building, 410 9th Street.
If approved, the Free Youth Transit Pass Program would start September 1, 2026, and waive transit fares for eligible youth for one year. The Province of Manitoba would cover up to $1 million in lost fare revenue through a contribution agreement.
Currently, Brandon Transit charges youth ages 6 to 17 a $1.60 cash fare, $14.20 for 10 rides, or $59.90 for a 30-day pass. Children 5 and under already ride free.
The proposal stems from the province’s 2026 budget, which earmarked $10 million for free youth transit across five Manitoba cities: Winnipeg, Brandon, Winkler, Selkirk, and Flin Flon. Selkirk launched its pilot program on June 15, 2026, serving students age 12 to 21.
Residents can offer input during a 15-minute community comment period near the start of the meeting. The agenda is available on the City of Brandon website.
Premier Wab Kinew has said the youth program helps save parents money and builds good habits, and he has suggested it could be extended to seniors if successful.
