Committee approves amended paratransit contract terms for Transdev, with BLA reductions

The Budget and Finance Committee on April 28 voted to forward to the full Board a resolution amending the Transdev paratransit broker and operating agreement for an additional five years through June 30, 2026 and increasing the contract ceiling to cover expanded services.

Annette Williams, Director of Accessible Services at the Municipal Transportation Agency, told the committee that Transdev has been the paratransit contractor since the original 2015 award and has provided taxi subsidy, group van and individualized SF Access services during the pandemic. Williams said the contractor supported an Essential Trip Card program, provided EMS shuttle support and operated housing shuttles.

The Budget and Legislative Analyst reported the proposed amendment would increase the contract amount from the prior level to a proposed $312 million total, but noted the net increase is $176 million due to a $6 million addition for the Essential Trip Card program; BLA recommended amending the resolution to reduce the contract amount by $4 million from $312 million to $308 million and recommended approval as amended.

Supervisor Asha Safaei praised the contract structure, noting payment is usage‑based. Chair Matt Haney moved to accept the BLA amendments and forward the item to the full Board with a positive recommendation; the roll call recorded Asha Safaei, Gordon Marr and Matt Haney voting aye (three ayes).