SUBJECT
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Authorizing the City Manager to waive bus fares for children between the ages of six (6) to seventeen (17) for our second (2nd) Annual “Kids on the Go” summer youth transportation program to help families and children in Laredo stay connected and active during the summer months. Kids on the Go Summer Youth Transportation Program will be commencing on June 1, 2026 through August 9, 2026.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
On June 2, 2025 the board approved the Kids on the Go program which commenced on June 3, 2025 to August 31, 2025.
BACKGROUND
El Metro Transit is rolling out its second (2nd) Annual year program to help families and children in Laredo stay connected and active during the summer months. As part of its inaugural Kids on the Go! Summer Youth Transportation Program, El Metro is offering FREE, unlimited bus rides for kids ages six (6) to seventeen (17).
El Metro, Transit is providing this service to the City of Laredo, and it is aimed at giving local youth more access to recreational, educational, and cultural opportunities across the city. The program supports children enrolled in summer programs offered by the City of Laredo, through participating agencies and organizations.
Children under the age of twelve (12) must ride with an adult, but all eligible youth can hop aboard any of El Metro’s Fixed Route Buses at no cost-with just a valid form of identification.
2025 Performance Highlights
During the program’s operation from June 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025, the initiative saw significant community engagement:
• Total Youth Ridership: 5,717 boarding’s were recorded specifically for recreational purposes.
• Accessibility: The program was utilized by students across the city using valid student identification cards.
• Economic Impact: By providing free transit, the program offered direct financial relief to local families during the peak summer season.
Acceptable ID Options include:
1. Active Parks and Recreation ID Card
2. Library Card
3. Official El Metro Kids on the Go ID Card
Registration Information
Official Program ID Cards are available at the “El Metro Transit Center” located at 1301 Farragut St.
Requirements: Proof of age and the presence of a parent and/or guardian for all youth under the age of eighteen (18).
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/a
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends the approval authorizing City Manager to waive bus fares for Summer Program.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N/a
Source of Funds: El Metro Operations
Account #: 558
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/a
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
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