GRT program begins allowing senior riders free weekly transit passes
Posted Jul 2, 2026 10:03:05 AM.
Last Updated Jul 2, 2026 12:08:20 PM.
According to Grand River Transit, over 100,000 riders use GRT transit in Waterloo Region every day, now, riders aged 65 or older can look forward to a day of free travel every week thanks to a new pilot program.
Announced in 2025, the new “Older Adult Day Pass pilot program” will grant eligible seniors one free day pass to use every 7 days on any form of GRT transit. These eligible transit methods include GRT buses, ION trains, MobilityPLUS services, and Kiwanis Transit.
In order to apply for the program, eligible riders aged 65 or older must complete the following steps:
- Download the GRT Pay app on a smartphone from either Google Play or the Apple App Store.
- Verify their age either online via an age-verification form, or in person at a GRT customer service location.
- Activate their day pass before boarding GRT transit.
Participants in the program will receive a new day pass on Wednesday morning of each week that can be redeemed any time until the end of the day on Tuesday of the following week.
Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo, says of the new program, “It can help older adults stay independent and connected by supporting access to appointments, shopping, recreation and community activities. The pilot will also provide valuable insight to help inform future decisions about concession programs for older adults.”
Grand River Transit says in their release that “data from the pilot will help shape Grand River Transit’s multi-year fare strategy and ensure fare programs continue to meet the needs of older adults and the broader community.”
More information on the new program can be found on GRT’s website.
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