More than 600 youth purchased “Rec and Ride” passes

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on October 3, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

The city says more than 600 teenagers aged 13-17 purchased a low-cost transit and recreation pass providing unlimited access to rec facilities throughout the summer months.

The new Rec and Ride Youth Pass was introduced in June and could be purchased for $50. The pass acted as a transit pass and provided admission for six city or YMCA locations.

The city is reporting a total of 627 youth purchased the pass, which was valid from June 27 to Sept. 5, and granted access to the Big Marble Go Centre. Crestwood Rec Centre, Hill Pool, Strathcona Pool and both the Downtown and South Ridge YMCAs.

“It became clear after just one week that this program was going to surpass our already lofty hopes,” said Scott Richter, manager of recreation, who initially hoped 200 passes would be sold.

“It’s apparent that our community values the impacts of affordable, accessible recreational opportunities. We remain committed to exploring these types of opportunities to promote a healthy, active community for all.”

According to city stats, more than 440 pass holders visited the Big Marble Go Centre, and the total number of visits by youth pass-holders increased to more than 3,100, compared to the same period in 2023 when visits from that age group didn’t reach 500.

During the same time, more than 140 pass-holders visited YMCA locations, equating to more than 1,200 total visits over the summer.

“The program filled a gap in the community and was a great way for young people to build independence while accessing recreation services throughout the community,” said Sharon Hayward, CEO YMCA of Southeastern Alberta. “No matter what facility they went to, the youth were out and actively engaged. We are pleased with the ongoing collaboration between the Y and the city.”

The city collaborated with the YMCA as well as local transit services to offer the youth pass, and plans to work together again next summer to offer a similar Rec and Ride pass to local teens.

Medicine Hat Transit says it recorded more than 3,000 total trips made by Rec and Ride Youth Pass holders.

“Building these key services proved to be a great way to expose new and upcoming transit riders to the value and reliability of Medicine Hat Transit,” said Gordon Dykstra, manager of transit operations. “When youth gain familiarity with transit, they gain access to a dependable, safe and convenient way to navigate our community year-round.”

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