Rec & Ride Youth Pass returns for year two

Following a highly successful inaugural season, the City of Medicine Hat's Parks and Recreation department, Medicine Hat Transit, and the YMCA of Southeastern Alberta are proud to once again partner to offer the Rec & Ride Youth Pass this summer.

The affordable summer pass provides youth aged 13 to 17 with unlimited access to transit and recreation opportunities throughout the community, helping remove barriers to active living, social connection, and independent mobility.

The 2026 Rec & Ride Youth Pass is available to purchase for just $50 starting Monday, June 15 at Big Marble Go Centre. The program will run from June 26 through September 4.

Pass holders receive unlimited access to Medicine Hat Transit and admission to six participating recreation facilities:

• Big Marble Go Centre
• Crestwood Recreation Centre
• Hill Pool
• Strathcona Pool
• Downtown YMCA
• South Ridge YMCA

The program made an impressive debut in 2025, with over 600 youth purchasing passes throughout the summer. Participants logged thousands of visits to recreation facilities and transit trips, demonstrating the community's strong appetite for affordable and accessible recreation opportunities.

“The first year of the Rec & Ride Youth Pass clearly demonstrated its value to youth and families,” said Scott Richter, Acting Director of Parks and Recreation. “By reducing both cost and transportation barriers, the pass has helped more young people stay active, connected, and engaged, and we’re hearing from parents and youth alike how much that access matters. These are benefits we expect to continue as the program moves forward.”

The partnership reflects a shared commitment among Parks and Recreation, Transit, and the YMCA to support youth well-being and increase access to recreation opportunities across Medicine Hat.

“With the positive feedback from the Rec & Ride Youth Pass last year, we feel this program provides an affordable and accessible option for youth to participate in some of the wonderful activities this city has to offer,” said Ken Bertelsen, Superintendent of Transit Operations with Medicine Hat Transit. “We hope to see this program continue to thrive in the years to come, allowing youth opportunities to connect with others, building a positive social connection within our community.

For more information about the Rec & Ride Youth Pass, including purchase details and program information, visit medicinehat.ca/rec-and-ride.

For media inquiries, please contact:
media@medicinehat.ca