John Benton

The committee discussed the ongoing transition to the Better Breeze card system and the upcoming shift from Trapeze to the RideCo reservation and dispatch system. Updates were provided on outreach strategies for the RideCo deployment, as well as performance reports regarding ADA-related customer complaints, mobility ridership, on-time performance, and call center metrics. Additional discussion points included technical challenges with reservation systems, clarifications regarding service area changes following a bus network redesign, and addressing rumors concerning the future of paratransit services.

The committee discussed updates on railcar procurement, specifically the testing and features of new Stadler trainsets, and received a project overview of the Campbellton Road Bus Rapid Transit corridor. The meeting included a review of ADA customer complaints, mobility services key performance indicators, and persistent issues with call center delays. Additionally, members addressed concerns regarding the design of new mobility vans, including interior accessibility and seating comfort, and examined inaccuracies in the mobility app regarding arrival times.

The committee discussed several key operational and accessibility topics. Reports included an update on the Better Breeze system launch, including the replacement of rail station infrastructure and fare products, along with specific accessibility concerns regarding equipment design. The ADA Link report detailed customer complaints and commendations for the period. Mobility operations performance metrics were presented, highlighting ridership growth, maintenance improvements, and call center staffing challenges. Finally, the committee addressed sensitivity training concerns regarding operator assistance for riders with disabilities and confirmed that MARTA will reinforce proper procedures with contractors.

The committee authorized a three-year contract extension for professional investment management services to ensure liquidity and maximize returns within the investment policy. A single-source contract for a two-year ridership awareness and media campaign at the airport was approved to boost ridership through premium advertising. Additionally, the committee considered a contract for storage infrastructure expansion and upgrades to replace hardware that reached its end-of-life, and reviewed a resolution for the renewal of ArcGIS software maintenance.

The Board of Directors approved several resolutions, including the modification of contractual authorizations for fare card distribution and customer support services and transit operator training courses. A waiver from the MARTA Code of Ethics was granted to Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc. to allow continued contracting during a restricted six-month period following the resignation of a former employee. Additionally, the Board authorized the issuance and sale of Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, Series 2026B, approved the operating and capital budgets for Fiscal Year 2027, and authorized a revenue-generating license agreement with the Atlanta Hawks. The Board also approved a contract with AT&T Mobility National Accounts LLC for wireless communications devices and services.