Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) has introduced a new webpage aimed at educating children and teenagers about transit. The page is designed to assist youth, parents, and teachers in using HRT’s various transit modes while providing safety tips for optimal travel experiences.
“Kids and young adults are the transit riders of tomorrow,” stated William E. Harrell, President and CEO. “With this new tool, we are further engaging this crucial population with programs and opportunities so our youth feel empowered and confident navigating transit in the six cities we serve.”
The website, located at gohrt.com/kids-young-adults, offers resources for all age groups:
Teenagers can learn about HRT’s Student Freedom Pass, which allows students aged 13 to 17 to ride all transit modes for free. This initiative supports students attending school, participating in after-school activities, and holding jobs without needing parental transportation. As fewer teens obtain driver’s licenses, the pass provides an ideal way to travel during summer and the upcoming school year.
Student Freedom Pass holders can also explore the new Student Transit Riders Commission, which offers leadership roles to influence the future of transit. The Commission will consist of Student Freedom Pass users from each of the six cities served by HRT. It mirrors HRT’s governing board, the Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads. Applications are open for students in grades 9-12 interested in joining.
For younger children, there is the Gus & Friends activity book created by HRT. It narrates Mike the Bike’s journey back to his owner after being left on Gus the Bus and includes characters like Gail the Light Rail and Dan the Van.
Educators can access information on bringing transit education into classrooms through travel training field trips for school groups, free activity books, and classroom readings about transit.
Parents will find resources including route schedules and maps, safety tips, riding instructions, and other planning tools on the webpage.
