Rochester Plans Public Transit Change With New $78M Contract

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The City of Rochester has tentatively chosen a Twin Cities-based firm to take over the operation of its public transit systems.

City Council to Consider $78 Million Transit Contract

The City Council is scheduled to vote next week on awarding a 64-month contract with an estimated value of nearly $78 million to Via Transit. The City Council resolution states that Via Transit "operates fully integrated systems in more than 175 cities and transit agencies around the world."

Transition From Transdev Planned This Fall

The tentative contract is slated to go into effect on September 1, while the city's existing contract with its current public transit provider, Transdev, runs through the end of the year. A statement issued by the city indicates the overlap will allow for a smooth transition to the new provider.

Rachel Fautsch, director of Transit and Parking for the City of Rochester, said: "The City of Rochester and Transdev have worked collaboratively to develop a transition approach that prioritizes riders, employees and uninterrupted service to the community. Throughout its tenure in Rochester, Transdev has been a valued partner in delivering public transportation services and supporting the mobility needs of residents, visitors and employees across the community. The City is grateful for the dedication of the frontline operators, mechanics, dispatchers, supervisors and support staff who have worked every day to keep Rochester moving."

City of Rochester

LINK Bus Rapid Transit Included in Agreement

The company was among five firms evaluated for the contract and among three selected for interviews by city staff and a representative of Mayo Clinic. The proposed contract with Via Transit covers operating the city's regular bus system, its paratransit service, as well as the implementation and ongoing operation of the new LINK Bus Rapid Transit system.

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New Transit Operator to Prepare for LINK Launch

The implementation of the new transit system will include hiring and training personnel, along with testing before the LINK Bus Rapid Transit system begins carrying passengers next year along the dedicated route currently under construction in downtown Rochester.

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