The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) has awarded First Transit a contract for its paratransit service.
First Transit will provide 75 employees, including management personnel overseeing day-to-day paratransit operations, supply five cutaway vans and 53 wheelchair-accessible vehicles. First Transit is also responsible for all maintenance to its new fleet of 58 vehicles.
“We believe in mobility access for all, and this partnership allows us to bring our paratransit experience to the passengers of Pinellas County,” said Tim McCann, senior vice president for the east region of First Transit. “We are proud that PSTA put their trust in us to provide safe and reliable transportation for such a vital service in the community.”
First Transit will install drive cams on all 58 vehicles to enhance the passenger experience and safety. In addition, a fleet monitoring system will be installed, providing real-time information on GPS location, engine diagnostics and driver behavior.
Road supervisors will be outfitted with tablets to ensure the highest levels of customer service. Paperless Shop technology streamlines communication in the maintenance department, equipping technicians with tablets for job assignments and seamless recordkeeping.
“We are excited to be partnering with First Transit to maintain this most important service to all in Pinellas County,” said Brad Miller, CEO, PSTA. “Their commitment to providing top quality service for riders with disabilities shows they have the same focus and respect for these great customers as our organization has had for more than 30 years.”
UZURV will act as a sub-contractor for First Transit supporting ambulatory transportation. First Transit will begin operating PSTA’s paratransit services on July 1, 2021.
