New Orleans Regional Transit Authority will launch a year long pilot program to bring free transit to youth, starting in September.

Residents between the ages of 16 and 24 will be able to obtain a pass that grants them access to free bus and streetcar transportation. 

Participants can sign up for their pass at any New Orleans Public Library branch, according to RTA’s website. 

The Opportunity Pass Program is a collaborative initiative between The New Orleans RTA, the New Orleans Public Library, RIDE New Orleans and the New Orleans Children and Youth Planning Board. 

According to Executive Director of RIDE New Orleans Courtney Jackson, the program aims to combat obstacles for youth. 

“We heard from youth and youth-serving organizations how vital access to things like school, work, healthcare, and community is to their success,” Jackson said. “This collaborative effort will ensure that we remove an unnecessary barrier.”

The 2.5 million dollar program was approved in 2023 by the New Orleans City Counsel and will be funded by the American Rescue plan.