Skagit Transit is pleased to announce a new Youth Ride Free Program that starts June 20, 2022. It offers free bus rides to all youth ages 18 and under on an ongoing basis throughout Skagit County. This program can help youth to get to work, to educational programs, to the libraries and museums and more.

Washington State transit agencies that implement zero-fare polices for youth, ages 0-18 by October 1 2022, will receive state grants to help fund the program from a state legislature package approved in March. The Skagit Transit Board of directors approved the new Youth zero fare program which applies to Skagit Transit’s fixed route and paratransit services.

Skagit Transit will roll out a transition program for free youth rides where youth just tell the bus operator their age on boarding a bus and ride effective June 20^th.

Starting in August, youth age 15 and older will need to use Skagit Transit’s electronic fare system to board the bus. The system is called Umo and is free to use. Youth can download the free Umo mobility smartphone app or pick-up a free Umo Youth card at the Skagit Station customer service office, or mail in proof of age with a request for a card to Skagit Transit. Youth age 14 and under can continue to board a fixed route bus at will, but are strongly encouraged to use the Umo system. Please note that children under 8 years old need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.