Hadiza Buhari

The Committee reviewed and recommended three primary resolutions. First, a contract amendment with Verizon Wireless was approved to expand cellular coverage to the Mt. Washington Transit Tunnel, increase license fees, and extend the agreement term. Second, a new three-year agreement for transit ridership data analytics services with Korbato was recommended. Third, the Committee approved an increase in the contract amount with WWT, Inc. to cover additional hardware and software requirements for phone update services. Additionally, the Committee received a progress update on the technology readiness and public rollout of the ReadyFare project.

The committee reviewed a capital budget update, specifically addressing the reallocation of $106.7 million in capital funds to operating funds following a PennDOT waiver, which helped avoid service cuts and fare increases while prioritizing safety. Additionally, the committee discussed financial statements for the month, noting that total operating income met budget projections as advertising and interest income offset lower fare revenue, while total expenses remained $4.2 million under budget across various categories. The committee also reviewed subsidy trends and the status of operating reserves.

The board meeting focused on the election of officers for the 2026 calendar year. The Nominating Committee presented a slate of candidates for the positions of Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, as well as several assistant officer positions. The board reviewed and unanimously approved the recommended slate of officers as presented.

The committee reviewed and recommended the approval of two procurement items totaling $971,789.00, finding them compliant with procurement policies and reasonably priced. Additionally, the committee recommended awarding a contract for the Berry Street Tunnel Improvements Project to Thoroughbred Construction Group, LLC, in the amount of $11,693,000, following a determination that the bid was the lowest responsive and responsible offer.

The Board meeting included reports on employee recognition awards, preparations for the NFL Draft, and updates on the Bus Line Refresh proposal, which focuses on network frequency and reliability. The Performance Oversight Committee recommended the authorization of procurement bids and a contract for the Berry Street Tunnel Improvements Project. The Planning and Stakeholder Relations Committee discussed the University Line and ridership metrics. The Finance Committee provided a capital update regarding funding waivers and a review of financial results. The Technology Committee authorized a contract amendment for antenna systems to improve cellular coverage in stations, a new transit ridership data analytics service, and an increase in funding for phone system updates. Additionally, the Board approved a performance bonus for the CEO, and public comments were received regarding transit service proposals and ridership programs.