Highway 407 ETR Launches Free Monthly Travel Program for Low-Income Drivers

In a new initiative aimed at easing financial burdens, Highway 407 ETR has announced its Route Relief Program, which will provide free travel for eligible low-income drivers. As detailed in a press release on November 4, participants may qualify for up to six complimentary trips per month through this program.

Highway 407 ETR, a 108-kilometre toll highway that extends from Burlington to Pickering, operates with an all-electronic tolling system and is widely used by Ontario commuters. Recognizing the growing financial pressures on households, the Route Relief Program is set to offer tangible support to qualifying drivers who depend on the highway for essential trips.

Eligibility for the Route Relief Program is determined based on Statistics Canada’s low-income threshold, which currently stands at an annual income of $28,863 for individuals. Family income limits adjust according to household size, aligning with provincial standards. Eligible applicants must also be Ontario residents, hold a personal-use vehicle registered in their name, and have no outstanding balance with 407 ETR.

According to Javier Tamargo, President and CEO of 407 ETR, the program is a way to help residents make crucial trips without added financial stress. “We hope this program will make it easier for our customers to enjoy a stress-free journey to get to a game or to a doctor’s appointment without worrying about their bill,” Tamargo said.

The Route Relief Program expands on Highway 407 ETR’s suite of financial assistance options, setting a new standard as the first initiative to offer long-term monthly free trips for qualifying customers. Other programs typically provide temporary bill relief, while Route Relief offers a year-long support option, with potential for renewal if requirements are met.

Community advocates have praised the initiative, including Kirk Brooks, founder of the Seaside Hockey Program, which works to make youth sports accessible in the Greater Toronto Area. “I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges many families face in finding the time to take their kids to games after work,” said Brooks. “407 ETR’s new Route Relief Program is a great step in ensuring that access to safe and reliable transportation is not hindered by financial constraints.”

Prospective applicants for the Route Relief Program can apply directly online at 407etr.com/routerelief, where they’ll need to provide proof of income, residency, and vehicle ownership. Once approved, participants will have the option to renew their membership each year, provided they continue to meet eligibility criteria.