MCTS President Fuentes Prioritizes Operator Safety and Transit Efficiency in Milwaukee

In a recent hybrid meeting of the Milwaukee County Committee on Transportation and Transit, safety emerged as a top priority for the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS). Newly appointed MCTS President, Mr. Fuentes, emphasized that maintaining safety for both bus operators and passengers is paramount, stating, "Safety is never on the table." This commitment comes amid ongoing discussions about budget constraints and operational challenges.

Mr. Fuentes, who brings over 30 years of experience from the Chicago Transit Authority, highlighted his immediate focus on enhancing safety measures, particularly regarding the protective shields on buses. He noted that some existing shields were inadequate, making it easier for individuals to reach operators. Plans are underway to improve these safety features, ensuring that operators are better protected while on duty.

The meeting also touched on the performance of Transdev, the contractor responsible for transporting passengers. It was clarified that while Transdev is not behind on payments, they are not meeting their contractual obligation to transport the expected number of passengers. This issue will be revisited in future meetings as the committee seeks to address performance concerns.

Additionally, discussions included potential labor negotiations, with assurances that operator safety will not be compromised in any economic concessions. The committee expressed appreciation for the transparency shown by MCTS leadership during this transitional period.

As Milwaukee County continues to navigate its transportation challenges, the focus remains on ensuring safety and reliability for all transit users, with ongoing evaluations and improvements planned to meet these critical goals.