Free bus rides for Detroit students to continue in new school year

August 17, 2026

Detroit is extending its Ride to Rise program, which provides free bus transportation to students aged 5-18 attending any type of school in the city. The initiative, which began as a pilot program in April and resulted in doubled student ridership within two months, has received $1 million in state funding to continue through the current school year. To address safety concerns, the city is deploying 50 transit ambassadors to ride buses during peak student travel times, with 20-25 on duty each school day.

Who is affected

Students ages 5-18 attending public, private, or charter schools in Detroit
Detroit families and parents
More than one-third of Detroit residents who lack reliable transportation
School leaders and administrators
Students at Pershing, Denby, Osborn, and East English Village Preparatory Academy at Finney high schools (rideshare pilot participants)

What action is being taken

The Ride to Rise program is continuing for the current school year with $1 million in state funding
The city is deploying 50 transit ambassadors to ride buses with students during peak hours before and after school
20-25 transit ambassadors are being stationed on DDOT routes each school day
A rideshare pilot program is running from August 24 through mid-October for approximately 150 students at four high schools
Students are able to board DDOT buses free of charge by showing valid school-issued IDs

Why it matters

This program addresses a critical transportation gap in a city where over one-third of residents lack reliable transportation access. The initiative aims to reduce student absenteeism by removing transportation barriers to school attendance. Beyond basic school access, the program enables students to reach tutoring, after-school programs, recreation centers, libraries, jobs, and internships throughout the city, expanding educational and employment opportunities. The safety enhancements through transit ambassadors respond to community concerns and demonstrate responsiveness to feedback from families and school leaders.

What's next

The rideshare pilot program will run through mid-October
Officials will continue gathering feedback from school leaders, families, and students to improve the program

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com