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Waukesha Metro to get outside review of private-management model
Summary
Waukesha Metro staff announced SURPAC will conduct a no-cost study of whether the system’s private-management model remains the most effective and cost-efficient option, citing vendor consolidation and examples of other systems bringing service in-house.
Waukesha Metro staff told the Transit Commission Thursday that SURPAC has agreed to conduct a study at no cost to examine whether the system’s current private-management structure remains the best option for the city.
Brian said Waukesha Metro has operated under a private-management contract for 44 years and that the study will test whether private management is still the most cost-effective model or whether alternatives — municipal operation, a separate utility model, or a different private arrangement — would be preferable. He noted that Transdev’s acquisition of First Transit has reduced the pool of independent bidders for management contracts.
“SURPAC agreed to do this study for us for free,” Brian said, adding that there would be staff time required but no direct cost for the consultant.
Commissioners asked clarifying questions about what “structure” meant; staff said in other Wisconsin systems agencies have moved to municipal operations and that the study is intended to verify whether Waukesha should remain with a private contractor or consider alternatives. No decision was made; the announcement will result in a study that staff said could validate the current structure or recommend changes.
What happens next: SURPAC will begin the study; staff will report findings to the commission when available.
