Jean M. Lovo

Key discussions during the meeting included an announcement regarding the passing of TPAC member Reverend William Jackson. Unfinished business covered the Account-based Fare Update, noting the distribution of WisGo cards and continued use of tickets/cash for certain services. The MCTS Budget Update revealed a projected $14 Million deficit for 2026, leading to service adjustments, and an evaluation requirement for paratransit van service reliability. Transdev provided an update on ongoing driver hiring efforts. New Business included an update from MCDOT on the hiring of a new director and potential restructuring of TPAC. There was also a discussion to re-evaluate the Same Day Pilot service due to a budget reduction to $750,000. The Transit Plus report detailed October 2025 ridership figures and on-time performance, noting a productivity rate below the contractual target. Committees provided brief updates, and the Mobility Management team is preparing for the WisGo rollout. The Carrier Report from Transdev highlighted driver call-off rates exceeding typical winter projections and requested clients ensure clear access routes due to snow and ice.

The meeting included updates on the account-based fare system, MCTS budget, nominations committee, Transdev, and the Same Day Pilot program. The council discussed the rollout of WisGo cards, the budget shortfall faced by MCTS, and the importance of both fixed route service and the same day ride pilot. Transdev is actively recruiting drivers to meet demand, particularly during peak hours. VIA is preparing a cost analysis for the same day ride service. There were discussions on ridership, on-time performance, and productivity, as well as complaints filed in September. Mobility management team provided individual and group training, including ADA training for new bus drivers.

The meeting included updates on the customer feedback database, the account-based fare collection project, and the MCTS 2026 budget, which involves potential fare increases and route eliminations. Concerns were raised about inconsistent service, driver shortages, and long ride durations. The council also discussed the TPAC meeting structure and the new MCTS President and CEO. Reports were given on mobility management, Transdev, Via, and Transit Plus, covering ridership, on-time performance, and budget updates.

The MOVE 2025 plan outlines significant service changes for the Milwaukee County Transit System, developed through extensive public outreach and feedback. The plan focuses on four key areas: increasing service frequency, introducing new routes, extending existing routes and creating new connections, and implementing various route modifications. These strategic adjustments aim to enhance accessibility, improve travel times, boost service reliability, and better serve the diverse needs of passengers, businesses, and the broader community.

The meeting addressed several topics including the Transit Plus office remodeling project, vendor staffing mitigation strategies, and the federal mask mandate extension. The crafting of a Van Service RFP was reported as ongoing. Updates were provided on the FTA Triennial Review, the suspension of MCTS Freeway Flyer service, and plans for in-person eligibility assessments. Discussion also covered Transit Plus drop-off procedures, the Mobility Management Report, and carrier reports from American United, Transit Express, and First Transit. Additionally, the council discussed the Service Infractions module, van and taxi ridership levels, and the document management project.