Avondale adopts federal-format Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan to secure transit grants

The Avondale City Council on June 16 adopted the City of Avondale Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP), a federal-format safety management blueprint for the city’s WeRide transit program.

Public Works Director Kirk (last name not provided) explained the plan implements a proactive safety management approach required by the Federal Transit Administration. Kirk said the city receives direct federal transit grants (Federal Transit Administration Sections 5307 and 5310) for WeRide; since November 2022 the program has received about $1,500,000 in grants. He described the PTASP’s four components — safety policy, risk management, safety monitoring, and safety training — and said the plan establishes a safety committee with equal representation from management and frontline employees.

Nut graf: Adoption of the PTASP is required for recipients of federal transit funding; the city said adopting the plan preserves grant eligibility and provides systematic safety oversight for the WeRide program.

Kirk identified the accountable executive as Harold Seguenza, Assistant Public Works Director, and the chief safety officer as Matt Dudley, Transit Manager. The council asked clarifying questions about the city’s eligibility for direct federal funding. Councilmember White noted the funding “is Avondale on its own, which really expands our portfolio of transit options available to our residents.”

A motion to adopt the plan passed; the transcript records the item as passing 6–1. Staff said the plan takes effect immediately and quarterly safety performance reports will be provided to council.

Ending: Staff said future plan updates will return to council for approval as needed and that the PTASP will be the basis for ongoing safety training and monitoring for the WeRide program.