MetroAccess Service Provider Has Rough Debut

Washington Post
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Disabled Riders Stranded By Metro
Service Provider Has Rough Debut
By Lyndsey Layton

"The new company hired by Metro to run MetroAccess, MV Transportation is easing into service this week, but the results have been chaotic and even dangerous."

"Pamela Wilkins, Metro's assistant general manager of contract services said she intends to ask the Metro board of directors to add $900,000 to the MV Transportation contract because Metro staff underestimated the amount of service required when it put the contract out to bid."

Maybe Metro should take a look at Maryland's Solution.

Washington Post
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Md., Disabled Commuters Settle Suit
By Ruben Castaneda; B04

"The lawsuit became an "opportunity to communicate with the disabled community and to involve them in the problem solving necessary for continuing improvement. The agreement is not concerned with minimal standards but the pursuit of excellence."

"The MTA has purchased 98 Mobility vehicles with high-tech locators that allow dispatchers to track each van at all times, and on-time performance has improved from 77 percent to 90 percent."

Additionally, MTA awarded contracts to TWO providers to allow for some friendly competition. Rather than sending an addition $900k to the new provider, I'd recommend awarding a second competing contract.

MTA contracts with MV Transportation and Yellow Transportation/Connex.