Luc Rabouin, the current leader of Projet Montréal and candidate for mayor, has revealed an innovative plan that could revolutionize public transit in Montreal. In an announcement made during a press conference on Tuesday, Rabouin unveiled the party’s proposal to introduce social pricing for public transportation users if they win the upcoming November election.
Under this new system, individuals with an income of $30,000 or less would be eligible for discounted STM monthly passes, priced at $62.75, equivalent to the rate offered to students. This initiative would result in savings of up to $500 annually for eligible commuters.
The primary objective behind this initiative is to alleviate the financial strain on low-income residents of Montreal, promote social inclusion, and ensure equal access to transportation services for all citizens. Projet Montréal estimates that approximately 175,000 Montrealers, constituting 12% of the population, would benefit from this program.
According to Rabouin, the implementation of social pricing is a crucial step towards creating a more affordable and accessible public transit system. He emphasized the party’s commitment to supporting the community, particularly those facing financial hardships. Rabouin envisions Montreal as a city where affordable housing and transportation are within reach for everyone.
Should Projet Montréal secure another term, the proposed measure is expected to require a budget of around $40 million, signaling a significant investment in the city’s public transportation infrastructure.
