Ronald D. Forrest

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.

The meeting included a review of media relations, the Task Force, and committee development. Discussions covered proposed by-laws, including the group's name, goals, objectives, and member expectations, with a motion to approve the by-laws and add Roberts Rules of Order. Future meeting times and dates were discussed, with a schedule set for the third Friday of every other month. Brainstorming sessions addressed high-priority topics such as vouchers for Uber/Lyft, secure platforms for card entry, current Metro accommodations, ADA services, security on transit, sensitivity training, transit stop accessibility, and communication with city and county departments. The committee also discussed its responsibility for appeals and outlined actions for the next meeting, including preferences for term limits and high-priority topics.

The meeting addressed concerns about the environment surrounding the Transit Access Center (TAC) and efforts to increase safety and security at MetroLink stations through the Secure Platform Project. Discussions included suggestions for communicating with the City of St. Louis about downtown safety, the integration of current passes with the new fare collection system, and concerns about access points at Civic Center. Updates were provided on project statuses, budget information, complaints and commendations, and boardings by mode for people with disabilities. The committee also discussed website updates, subcommittee statuses, and the upcoming retirement of Chuck Stewart, along with the Wayfinding Pilot Program.