LA Metro Expands Free Passes to 17,000 Students
WSS partnership provides 17,000 Lynwood and Inglewood students unlimited Metro rides
Metro Adds Free Passes for 17,000 LA Students
Nearly 17,000 students in Los Angeles County gained free access to Metro's bus and rail system through an expanded partnership with footwear retailer WSS, transit officials announced Monday. The GoPass program expansion benefits students from Lynwood Unified and Inglewood Unified school districts, removing transportation barriers to school, work and activities. Stephanie Wiggins, Metro Chief Executive Officer, said the collaboration shows how public agencies and private businesses can create opportunities for young people.
Partnership Removes Transportation Barriers
Metro launched its GoPass program in 2006 to ensure students have reliable, affordable transportation throughout Los Angeles County. WSS's sponsorship covers the cost of passes for students in the two districts, though officials didn't disclose the financial terms of the partnership. The program addresses a critical need in communities where transportation costs can prevent students from accessing educational and employment opportunities. Transit agencies across major metropolitan areas increasingly rely on corporate partnerships to expand student pass programs.
Students Gain Access Across Metro System
The GoPass provides unlimited rides on Metro's bus and rail network, which serves communities throughout Los Angeles County. Eric Haack, Chief Operating Officer at WSS, said the company believes in giving back to communities it serves by helping students overcome transportation challenges. Officials said the passes work across all Metro routes, though they didn't specify whether students receive physical cards or digital passes. The program aims to ensure students can reach any destination they need throughout the transit system's service area.
Program Already Serving District Students
The expanded partnership took effect July 21, officials said, with students from both districts now able to access the passes. Metro typically coordinates with school districts to distribute passes at the start of each academic term, though officials didn't detail the specific distribution process for this partnership. The agency said it'll continue working with WSS and the districts to ensure students can access their passes. Officials didn't announce whether they plan to expand the partnership to additional school districts.
Free Transit Access Supports Student Success
Students can use their GoPass for any trip purpose, from daily school commutes to weekend activities and part-time jobs. The program recognizes that transportation access directly affects students' ability to participate in educational opportunities and community activities. Riders can check real-time Metro schedules and plan trips using Moovit's transit app.
