Transportation program to expand College students’ access to city

Students in the College will have more opportunities to learn about the city of Chicago and its culture beginning in fall 2016 as part of a program that will provide unlimited use of CTA buses and trains.

The announcement of the University's participation in the program, called U-Pass, comes following a successful Student Government referendum of College students in February 2015.

“U-Pass is a great model of exactly how students should be playing a role in decision-making,” said Tyler Kissinger, president of Student Government. “I’ve heard from a lot of people who–considering the amount they go out of Hyde Park–already anticipate leaving more, or having the burden lowered of traveling to an internship, going to doctor’s appointments or just going to eat outside of Hyde Park.”

The arrival of U-Pass comes during a period of growth for University programs that connect students with the city of Chicago. The University inaugurated its Study Chicago program in spring 2015, in which students immerse themselves in the history and culture of the city’s neighborhoods. UChicago Arts Pass has expanded its partnerships with cultural institutions across the city, bringing students into contact with Chicago exhibitions and performances. In addition, the University Community Service Center has grown its service opportunities across the city, matching students to more than 250 community organizations.

“Through working for StoryArts Summer Camp, I end up traveling around the city promoting in different schools, meeting with grant organizations and developing curriculum with teaching artists,” said first-year Jonathan Poilpre. “U-Pass will give me the freedom to travel the city as necessary.”

Students and administrators believe U-Pass will encourage more active participation in University opportunities across Chicago.

“Over the last couple of decades the College has returned to our roots as a community that derives energy and vision from the city of Chicago, and gives back through our students’ far-reaching interests and activities,” said John W. Boyer, dean of the College and the Martin A. Ryerson Distinguished Service Professor in History. “The U-Pass program will give our students even greater freedom to explore this great city and its cultural offerings, and as such it brings both practical and intellectual benefits. I am delighted that this idea began as a student initiative, and that we could work together to make it a reality.”

The cost of the U-Pass program will be entirely subsidized for students on financial aid.