Winnipeg Transit offering free service on New Year's Eve

Winnipeg Transit is helping to ensure that Winnipeggers get home safely this New Year’s Eve with free rides all night.

On Monday, the city announced it is working with Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) to offer the Free Ride Program. Through this initiative, all Winnipeg Transit and Transit Plus services will be free on Dec. 31 from 7 p.m. until the end of service. The city notes the last buses will leave downtown around 1:30 a.m.

“The Free Ride Program is an important tradition that ensures Winnipeggers can celebrate New Year’s Eve safely and responsibly,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham in a news release.

“The results from this year’s Winnipeg Police Service Checkstop Program show that too many people are still driving while impaired. By providing free transit service, the City of Winnipeg and Manitoba Public Insurance are offering a safe and convenient way to get home after a night out.”

According to the City of Winnipeg, 13 people have been killed on Manitoba’s roads this year due to impaired driving, while another 86 were injured. It added that 2,164 drivers have been found to be driving impaired this year, which puts their lives and the lives of everyone else on the road at risk.

Driving impaired by drugs and alcohol can lead to severe penalties, including an impounded vehicle, licence suspension, mandatory ignition interlock, fines, increased premiums and criminal charges.

The city reminds Winnipeggers to plan their bus trip using Navigo, which can be found online or the Winnipeg Transit app.