RTA Offers Free Transportation For Youths

RTA Offers Free Transportation For Youths. The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is making significant strides to support the city’s youth through its new initiative, the Opportunity Pass Program. This year-long pilot program, set to launch in September, is designed to provide free transportation to young residents, ensuring they have easier access to essential services and opportunities.

The Opportunity Pass Program

Starting in September, residents of New Orleans aged 16 to 24 will be eligible for a pass that grants them free access to bus and streetcar services throughout the city. This initiative aims to alleviate transportation barriers that can impede young people’s access to education, employment, healthcare, and community engagement.

How To Obtain Your Free Pass

Participants interested in obtaining their Opportunity Pass can sign up at any New Orleans Public Library branch. This convenient sign-up process ensures that the pass is easily accessible to all eligible residents. For more information on locations and registration, you can visit the RTA’s official website.

Collaborative Effort Behind The Program

The Opportunity Pass Program is a collaborative effort involving several key organizations:

• The New Orleans RTA: The primary agency responsible for implementing and managing the program.
• The New Orleans Public Library: Facilitates the distribution of passes.
• RIDE New Orleans: Advocates for transit equity and played a crucial role in developing the program.
• The New Orleans Children and Youth Planning Board: Provides insights and support for the program’s development.

According to Courtney Jackson, Executive Director of RIDE New Orleans, the program is designed to address and overcome significant obstacles faced by youth. “We heard from youth and youth-serving organizations how vital access to things like school, work, healthcare, and community is to their success,” Jackson stated. “This collaborative effort will ensure that we remove an unnecessary barrier.”

Program Funding And Approval

The Opportunity Pass Program, with a budget of $2.5 million, was approved by the New Orleans City Council in 2023. The funding for this initiative comes from the American Rescue Plan, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting the city’s younger population during challenging times.

Conclusion

The RTA’s Opportunity Pass Program represents a significant step forward in enhancing transportation equity for New Orleans youth. By providing free access to public transit, the program aims to remove barriers and foster greater opportunities for young residents to engage in school, work, and community life. For more details on how to participate or to get involved, visit the RTA’s website or your local New Orleans Public Library branch.