San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

Key discussions focused on the Fiscal Year 2026 amended budget forecast and the Calendar Year 2026 fee schedule, emphasizing the self-funded nature of the For-Hire Vehicle Administration (FHVA). A major topic was the potential introduction of autonomous for-hire vehicles (AVs), such as Waymo, raising concerns about worker livelihoods and local regulatory control, leading to a motion to protest to the CPUC and DMV. Furthermore, enforcement updates regarding 'wildcatting' operations were provided, noting operational limitations due to staffing and budget constraints. Sustainable measures for the taxicab industry were reviewed, centering on the adoption of modern technology like soft meters and contactless payments to better compete with Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). The committee also reviewed proposed 2026 maximum rates of fare adjustments based on CPI changes, and discussed the introduction of new Airport Ground Transportation Access Fees, including a pick-up fee increase and a new drop-off fee.

The Elevate San Diego plan outlines a strategy to significantly enhance the region's public transit system, aiming for traffic relief, improved accessibility, and reduced environmental impact. Its core components include implementing new high-speed transit lanes on key freeways and substantially expanding rapid bus routes with increased frequency and extended operating hours. The plan also prioritizes infrastructure upgrades such as 11 trolley grade separations to improve speed and safety, and new critical connections like a rail link to the airport and a Skyway to Sorrento Valley. Furthermore, it introduces mobility-on-demand services, free transit passes for individuals under 18, upgraded amenities, and increased security funding, alongside grants for local access improvements. Projected outcomes include a 64-65% increase in ridership, a 70% increase in transit service miles, significant greenhouse gas reductions, and the creation of 120,000 jobs, with rapid implementation of projects within the first 18 years.

The meeting included public comments regarding ADA accessibility, route mapping suggestions utilizing AI, and a call for an RFP for managing public property near the San Ysidro Trolley Station, especially in preparation for the World Cup. The consent agenda involved several contract awards and amendments, including one for Community Outreach Consultant Services with CENTRIC, amendments for the Kearny Mesa Division Zero Emission Bus Charging Phase I with Pacific Rail Enterprises, Inc., a contract award for SDTC Pension Plan Administration Services to Nyhart, and a renewal for Commvault software support. The Board also elected a Chair Pro Tem and approved committee appointments, including assignments to the MTS Accessible Service Advisory Committee and the San Diego Association of Governments Regional Planning Committee. A public hearing was held concerning the conversion of Pilot Route 910 (Blue Line Overnight Express Bus) to a permanent route, which was subsequently approved based on strong ridership growth and public support. Another significant discussion involved authorizing the CEO to communicate the Board's position regarding autonomous vehicle passenger services (like Waymo) to regulatory bodies such as the CPUC and DMV, focusing on maintaining local control and addressing worker impact. Finally, informational reports were received on Project Labor Agreement Monitoring and Grants Administration.

This document provides an overview of the National Buried Infrastructure Facility (NBIF), a world-leading research center established in 2022 under the UKCRIC scheme. It details the facility's advanced testing capabilities, including a unique movable floor with 50 independent actuators and digital twin technology, designed to simulate ground movements and test buried infrastructure. The NBIF's strategic purpose is to support the civil engineering and construction industry, address urbanization challenges, and foster innovation in infrastructure development by providing data and methodologies to make a step change in industry practices.

The MTS 2019 Test & Simulation Vision outlines the company's commitment to creating a better, safer, and more sustainable world. This is achieved by being a world leader in innovative and premium test and simulation solutions, focused on enabling customer success through relentless innovation, open collaboration, and total satisfaction. The vision emphasizes delivering solutions for complex challenges across diverse industries, advancing technological capabilities in electric actuation and modern controls, expanding both standard product offerings and custom project capabilities, increasing market presence in developing regions, and optimizing the supply chain for efficient product and service delivery.