Westbrook high schoolers could receive free passes for unlimited bus rides starting this school year under an agreement with Greater Portland Metro.

Westbrook City Council on Monday passed a first reading of the proposal that would provide about 700 students with transit passes that could be used throughout the year in Greater Portland. 

“For many students, that would mean greater independence and greater opportunity,” Mayor David Morse said during the meeting Monday. “It means easier access to school, afterschool activities, jobs, volunteer opportunities and the many experiences that help young people prepare for adulthood.”

The council would have to approve the initiative during a second reading on Aug. 3. It passed the first reading 6-1, with Councilor Gary Rairdon voting against it.

Councilor Michael Shaughnessy said it was one of the most exciting things to come across the council’s desk.

“By introducing our students to Metro today, we have the opportunity to cultivate a generation of residents who view public transit as a normal part of everyday life,” Morse said.

The city will only pay for rides taken at a cost $1.13 per ride, capped at 30,000 rides each year. The maximum annual cost would be about $34,000, which would be funded through rental vehicle registrations. The city recently received authorization to begin registering rental vehicles, and the new source of revenue will exceed the cost of the Metro program, which will not require an increase in property taxes.

Greater Portland Metro operates local and regional routes connecting Portland, South Portland, Westbrook, Falmouth, Yarmouth, Freeport, Brunswick and Gorham. It has similar agreements for high school students in Portland and South Portland.

An additional bus stop would be added at the corner of Stroudwater Street and Monroe Avenue, near the high school, in the mornings and afternoons when students arrive at and leave school.

The initiative would also serve as an alternative way to get to school for students who live within the 1.5-mile walking radius. Co-Principal Jeff Guerette said it would help those students get to school on time and reduce tardiness.