Brian Dillard

The meeting included calling the session to order following a moment of reflection. The consent agenda was approved. Discussion revolved around the transformation of VIA into a multimodal transportation entity, highlighting achievements during the tenure of departing trustees (Henry Munoz, Rick Pitch, and Mary Briseno). Key accomplishments mentioned include the realization of VIA Primo, the creation of Partnerships for Mobility, significant contributions to improvements along US 281 and Loop 1604, the development of a multimodal transit network including a streetcar system, procurement of environmentally friendly vehicles, and deployment of new bus shelters. There was a preview of an informational video showcasing these accomplishments and future plans, including a five-year plan targeting transit centers and modern streetcar development. Public comments included legislative commendations for the departing trustees, discussions on leveraging over a billion dollars in highway construction funding, and mention of managed lane concepts and bonding legislation.

The meeting commenced with a moment of reflection and the pledge of allegiance. The President/CEO report included recognition of VIA staff for successfully operating special event service for the Spurs championship celebration, noting they moved over 8,000 people, and acknowledged the utility of the Robert Thompson Transit Center. The CEO also recognized the VIA Metropolitan Transit team for receiving the Public Sector Award for the use of the most locally owned businesses in procurement efforts from the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's Business Opportunity Development Awards (BODA). A bus operator, Ryan Hirschfield, was recognized for stopping to assist another motorist in reconnecting a toddler with guardians. During the Citizens to be Heard section, a citizen expressed gratitude for VIA's advancements in mass transportation but then detailed significant customer service issues experienced on June 5, 2014, related to route delays, alleged unprofessional conduct and yelling from two VIA supervisors when asked for directions following street closures due to the Spurs celebration, and subsequent racist comments made by VIA supervisors to minority patrons, which led to one elderly patron leaving in distress. The citizen also recognized bus operator Gabriel Torres for consistent courtesy.

The meeting commenced with the introduction of the new President and CEO, Mr. Arndt, followed by a report highlighting VIA's recent recognition as Owner of the Year by the Hispanic Contractors Association for its investment in the VIA Primo Bus Rapid Transit project and the West Side Multimodal Transit Center. The report also noted the positive reception of the new Go VIA smartphone app, developed by a local company, which appeared on a top 10 local smartphone apps list. Public comments included discussions on the future demand for VIA trans service, particularly concerning the growing senior and disabled populations in Bear County over the next 15 years. Several stakeholders from the Sona Cultural/Mercado Market Square area strongly advocated for specific routing options for the new streetcar project to ensure connectivity and preservation of the area's historical and cultural significance, mentioning several ongoing and planned developments in the vicinity such as the Alameda Theater restoration and the new Federal Courthouse. Concerns were also raised regarding service reliability for paratransit users.

The document details proceedings that appear to cover two separate board meetings or sessions: the Advanced Transportation District (ATD) board meeting and the VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority board meeting. Key discussions for the ATD session included the approval of a consent agenda and an update on the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), where VIA received $1 million in funding, with Scenario B selected unanimously for pedestrian access improvements to bus stops. The subsequent VIA Transit Authority session involved significant announcements, including recognition for staff involved in responding to the Wedgewood apartment fires in December 2014. Public comments covered various topics such as the poor quality of North American bus Industries coaches (dubbed the 'human torture chamber on wheels'), concerns about the US dollar losing its reserve currency status, alleged aggressive behavior by Transit Police, positive feedback on existing VIA routes (Routes 10, 14, 50, 52, 642), suggestions for parking lot improvements at Naco Pass, and issues regarding lighting and security at bus stops, particularly around Travis Park and along New Laredo Highway. Additionally, the Mayor of Balcony Heights presented a unanimously approved Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Balcony Heights and VIA for the first Transit Oriented Development in Bexar County. Finally, there was commendation for VIA's participation in the Martin Luther King Jr. march and mention of a recent Transit Educational Showcase.

The meeting covered several announcements, including recognition from the Special Forces Association for providing support during their annual convention, and VIA Primo receiving the 2013 Transportation Achievement Award from the Institute of Transportation Engineers for timely and under-budget completion. VIA is also providing free Park and Ride support for the People in Espanol Festival. Public comments featured strong opposition to the proposed downtown streetcar project, citing existing bus lines and suggesting funds be reallocated to improve bus stop accessibility (especially for mobility and visually impaired individuals) and support for senior transportation services. Concerns were raised regarding the service quality, scheduling, and operational issues with the Star Shuttle contract, including driver shortages and malfunctioning fare collection systems. Conversely, some speakers commended VIA Trans drivers and noted improvements in call notification systems and anti-no-show procedures, while also praising the Star Shuttle drivers' courtesy. Additional discussion points included the need for service expansion on Route 88 and route requests for the Medical Center area in Leon Valley. One speaker noted issues with seniors being unaware of fare exemptions on weekends and holidays.