BC Transit's Umo cards and fare products now available at City facilities

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed May 12, 2025 10:00 AM

Summary

The City of Nanaimo is pleased to announce an exciting partnership with BC Transit to provide Umo card sales and fare product reload services at all City recreation centres and the Service and Resource Centre (SARC). This initiative brings expanded access to BC Transit’s fare products, making it easier and more convenient for Nanaimo residents to ride public transit.

In addition to enhancing service convenience, this initiative also carries a strong community benefit. All commissions earned from fare product sales through City facilities will be directly reinvested into the Leisure Economic Access Policy (LEAP) program. LEAP supports Nanaimo residents who face financial barriers to recreation and culture services and, thanks to this new funding, will now help address transportation barriers as well. By connecting LEAP clients with more accessible public transit options, the City is taking another step toward building a more equitable and connected community.

Umo payment methods and fare products, introduced by BC Transit, replaced traditional paper bus tickets with a modern and flexible payment method. Riders now have two simple options: download the Umo Mobility app onto their mobile device or pick up a reloadable Umo card. For residents who prefer not to use a mobile device or do not have access to one, Umo cards offer an easy alternative, allowing them to tap and ride just as easily.

The City of Nanaimo recognizes that affordable, accessible transportation is essential for full community participation. For many LEAP clients, access to reliable transit options can mean the difference between isolation and opportunity — whether it’s attending a fitness class, accessing important services, or connecting with their community. By using the proceeds from Umo fare product sales to directly support LEAP clients, the City is removing key barriers and enabling more residents to enjoy an active, engaged lifestyle.

This partnership with BC Transit also supports Nanaimo’s broader commitment to sustainability and active transportation. Encouraging public transit use helps reduce traffic congestion, lowers greenhouse gas emissions and promotes healthier communities. Through programs like this, the City is helping to create a more inclusive, environmentally friendly and connected Nanaimo for generations to come.

A reminder for residents: a scam is currently circulating on social media in Nanaimo, falsely promoting RDN Transit passes under the guise of a BC Transit anniversary offer. Umo cards and reload services are only available at City recreation centres, the Service and Resource Centre (SARC), the official BC Transit website, or from verified retail distributors on central Vancouver Island.

Link to Strategic Plan: The encouraged use of public transit aligns with the City's plan for a greener Nanaimo.

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