This op-ed is part of a series written by community leaders about the next 10 years of Pittsburgh. Join NEXTpittsburgh and representatives from local organizations, including BikePGH and Pittsburghers for Public Transit, at Attack Theatre on Feb. 18 to learn more about the “NEXT10” years of Transportation for All.by Pittsburgh Regional TransitPittsburgh Regional Transit will soon be rolling out a game changer in how the Steel City can access public transit — the PRTner Pass. Approved by the PRT Board in November and launching early this year, the PRTner Pass is poised to make public transit more affordable, accessible and widely available to those who need it most. Whether you’re a student at a local school, a young professional commuting to the office or a resident of a bustling apartment complex, this new program promises a fresh, modern approach to transit, with plenty of perks along the way.The idea is simple yet transformative: Employers, schools and multifamily residences across Allegheny County can sign up for the PRTner Pass to offer unlimited transit access to their employees, students or residents. It’s like a monthly subscription to seamless mobility, all at a fraction of the cost. With the PRTner Pass priced at just $28 per month—a striking 70% discount off the standard 31-day pass — it’s clear that Pittsburgh Regional Transit wants to make sure everyone can hop on board.Making transit more affordable — and more appealingThe price point is one of the most appealing aspects of the PRTner Pass. For just $28 per month, people in Allegheny County can get unlimited access to PRT buses, light rail and the Mon Incline. Imagine the possibilities this opens up, especially for lower-income residents, students on a tight budget or people who may have hesitated to use public transit because of costs. And since these passes are purchased in bulk by participating organizations, the cost is spread out in a way that makes sense for everyone.But the PRTner Pass isn’t just about a good deal — it’s about creating a public transit culture. By bringing transit into the heart of schools, workplaces and residential hubs, PRT is betting that people will adopt public transportation as a natural part of their daily lives. When students, employees and residents start using public transit every day, it becomes part of their routine — and over time, more people commuting by transit instead of by car means fewer vehicles on the road, less congestion and cleaner air for everyone.PRTner Pass: bringing us all closer togetherIn our increasingly connected world, we rely on shared spaces and experiences to bring us closer together. With the PRTner Pass, PRT is making it possible for employers, schools and residential communities to literally connect people to the places they need to go, whether it’s a daily commute, a trip to a friend’s house or just exploring new neighborhoods. PRT is offering a practical, cost-effective way to bring the community together — and it’s a major step toward a more inclusive city.It’s also a benefit that employers, schools and landlords can rally around. By purchasing passes for 100% of eligible members (yes, every employee, student or resident), participating organizations ensure that everyone has the chance to get on board. It’s a perk that not only shows commitment to sustainability but also aligns with the broader vision of building a healthier, more equitable Allegheny County.A modern, data-driven approach to transit accessPRTner Pass is launching exclusively through the Ready2Ride mobile app, PRT’s convenient way for riders to access their passes on the go. This tech-forward approach ensures the system stays adaptable while allowing PRT to gather data and refine the program in real-time. If smartphone access is an issue, PRT has plans to roll out alternatives like smart cards, making sure everyone can access the program.PRT has been clear that they’re committed to adapting as needed, and part of that includes adjusting costs over time based on actual program usage. The flexibility shows that PRT is taking a forward-thinking approach that anticipates future growth, both in the number of people using the program and in the benefits it brings to the region.Built on community input, backed by public trustFrom August through October of this year, PRT hosted public meetings and a comment period where community members could share thoughts and provide feedback. Residents, business leaders and local organizations weighed in, making the PRTner Pass a true product of community collaboration. And because it’s shaped by real community needs, it’s better positioned to serve those who rely on transit in their daily lives.This program shows what’s possible when a transit authority listens to its residents, adapts based on their feedback and strives to make transit a seamless part of life in Allegheny County. It also reinforces trust in PRT’s vision, creating a foundation for the future as the agency continues to make transit more accessible.A big step forward for Allegheny CountyThe PRTner Pass isn’t just a new program—it’s an invitation for Pittsburgh to reimagine how we think about public transportation. From cutting down on car commutes to reducing emissions and supporting sustainability, this program aligns perfectly with Allegheny County’s goals for the future. It offers a smart, flexible way to integrate transit into people’s daily lives and makes a more connected, accessible Pittsburgh not just a possibility but a reality.By offering meaningful incentives to ride and making transit part of our everyday landscape, PRT is setting the stage for a more vibrant, inclusive city. The PRTner Pass is more than just a transit pass; it’s a powerful tool for connecting Pittsburghers to each other, to opportunities and to a future shaped by shared journeys.The post Pittsburgh Regional Transit new PRTner Pass to provide a “bold new step” appeared first on NEXTpittsburgh.