Cedar Rapids Launches Sponsored Student Fare Program

The City of Cedar Rapids, Cedar Rapids Community School District (CRCSD), Kirkwood Community College, and Coe College have collaborated to offer student bus rides at no cost on all fixed route buses operated by Cedar Rapids Transit.

CRCSD, Coe, and Kirkwood students who show their student ID are eligible for the sponsored ride program. CRCSD elementary and middle school students are not required to show ID.

“Transportation is a critical need for many residents, at every age,” said Brad DeBrower, Cedar Rapids Transit. “We believe this program will provide an important option for parents and students to not only get to school, but activities, events and jobs. Things they may not be able to participate in if it weren’t for the sponsored student fare program.”

The program is available year round for all students in the Cedar Rapids Community School District and attending Kirkwood Community College or Coe College. The City is currently working with Mount Mercy University and other local schools, with the goal of having a comprehensive program that includes all metro area colleges and school districts.

This program builds on a limited program the City has had with Kirkwood for several years. That program was only for the route servicing Kirkwood, and billed Kirkwood for the number of student rides. This program expands that program to include all routes for participating agencies that choose to sponsor their students.  Annual contracts are based on a proposed contribution of $3.00 per student or employee (the price of a full fare unlimited ride day pass) determined by the school’s current student enrollment, with a suggested $3,000 minimum annual participation.

Visit cityofcr.com/transit or call 319-286-5573 for more information.

Riders can track bus arrival times using the mobile app ridecrt.com.