Commission approves replacement of paratransit fleet with three vans and one cutaway van

The Wausau Transit Commission voted unanimously to replace its existing paratransit fleet with three 2025 high-roof 350 vans and one 2025 E-450 cutaway van, using available CARES Act funds authorized for that purpose by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

Staff said the current paratransit fleet dates from about 2012 and exceeds the federal recommended useful life. The plan calls for acquiring a mix of vehicle sizes: two smaller transit vans for more frequent single-passenger trips and one larger cutaway to handle cases that require more capacity. The commission would sell the current vehicles and apply the proceeds against the grant as required.

Commissioners asked how seating and wheelchair capacity would be managed. A staff member explained the smaller vans are typically set for one wheelchair; the larger vans can carry two when seats are removed or reconfigured, though staff said they avoid placing two electric wheelchairs in a small van for safety. Commissioners discussed whether lower ridership was due to limited public awareness of the paratransit program; staff said outreach could be improved in future years while fleet needs were addressed now.

The motion to authorize the four-vehicle purchase was moved, seconded and passed unanimously.