Bi-State Development Agency

The committee discussed the relocation of the Transit Center and the transition to a new fare collection system, including pilot testing of ticket vending machines. Significant focus was placed on a proposed change to the Call-A-Ride No-Show Policy, which includes classification updates and a five-minute wait time rule, effective May 1. Subcommittee reports addressed appeals, training programs such as Better Transit Together, and accessibility initiatives like ASL video resources. The Director of ADA Services provided updates on guides and grant programs. Finally, various community announcements were made regarding upcoming accessibility events and public transit improvements.

The meeting included discussions on proposed amendments to the committee by-laws, the relocation of the Transit Center, and the transition to a new fare collection system. A guest speaker provided updates on MetroBus initiatives, including customer service programs and accessibility improvements. Other topics included the tabling of a proposed change to the Call-A-Ride booking window, various subcommittee updates regarding appeals and training, and the progress of the Accessibility subcommittee. Additionally, the Director of ADA Services reported on updates to the service animal policy and the ongoing revision of rider guides and brochures.

The meeting began with welcome and introductions, including the newest committee member. Public comments addressed concerns regarding the determination between VIA, Lyft, and Call-A-Ride assignments, issues with smoking on transit platforms, and difficulties Call-A-Ride users face accessing regional transportation events. Under Old Business, 2026 meeting dates were established for the MTAAC and BSD BOC, and subcommittee reports were delivered regarding appeals, training recognition patches, and accessibility study focus areas. New Business featured a presentation on the upcoming New Fare Collection System, detailing new validators, smartcards, mobile app integration, and the replacement process for ADA Paratransit cards. It was noted that Call-A-Ride will continue using the separate MetroGo! App. A report from the Director of ADA Services covered updates to the Call-A-Ride User's Guide, clarification on overflow trip management using Lyft and VIA, and the upcoming relocation of TAC services to the North County Transit Center. Announcements included updates on the Board of Commissioners quorum issues and an acknowledgment of a letter regarding sidewalk and bus stop inaccessibility.

The meeting commenced with introductions, including the newest committee member. Public comments addressed fare enforcement, strict enforcement of the No Smoking policy, operator empathy for invisible disabilities, and a query about election day transportation services. Old business included follow-ups on the complaint process, noting that complaint numbers will now be issued, and updates on intermodal signage at the Gateway Center. Subcommittee reports covered the Appeals process, which involves eligibility and no-show suspension appeals, and the Training subcommittee's need to finalize a recognition program for operators. New business featured a presentation on the Internal Digital Data Dashboard Development, which will track KPIs such as on-time performance and service complaints, and included discussion on standardizing boarding assistance for mobility device users. The committee also tentatively approved the 2026 meeting schedule. Feedback was sought regarding the plan to implement "Front Door Only Exit" signage at selected MetroBus stops. The Director of ADA Services provided an update on SPP/Fare Collection construction at Stadium MetroLink Station and upcoming community engagement events.

The meeting included public comments regarding the implementation of the new fare system with the Secure Platform Project, which is scheduled for 2026. The committee reviewed the committee calendar, status of the committee information roster and appeals committee training update. The committee approved Training and Accessibility as topics for committee focus. The committee elected Raymond Bishop as Chair and Kristi Vetri as Vice Chair. A presentation on Secure Platform Project was given by Melissa Webb, Director of Security Media and Customer Engagement.