DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – The cost to the Detroit Public Schools Community District for providing free bus passes to students will increase by about 60% in the upcoming school year.

The district estimates about 4,200 students will use the free Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) passes provided by the district. The district estimates it will cost them $818,400 in 2025-26, an increase from the $510,000 it cost in 2023-24.

MORE NEWS: Explore the Mystery: Michigan’s Keweenaw Wall is Your Next Road Trip of the Week

The DDOT offers a reduced student bus far via an agreement with the district that allows the Detroit school district to purchase a 31-day pass for $17. A full-fare 31-day park-and-ride pass cost $82, according to the DDOT website.

“This highlights the significant demand for affordable and reliable transportation among students in the District, and the importance of ensuring that such services are readily available to them,” the district stated in a memo.