Committee advances $1.5M amendment to New Flyer bus contract as SFMTA pushes fleet modernization

The Budget and Finance Committee voted to forward to the full Board a resolution approving Amendment No. 3 to the New Flyer of America contract. SFMTA representative Gary Chang described the amendment as a $1.5 million increase to revise spare parts lists and add vehicle upgrades to buses delivered between 2015 and 2017, including a new radio system, GPS signal priority, improved wheelchair ramps and additional interior cameras.

Chang framed the amendment within a broader fleet modernization plan that aims for a fully low‑ or zero‑emission rubber‑tire fleet, described safety and ADA improvements (stroller parking, staggered wheelchair securements, LED signage) and said the agency is evaluating battery technology and infrastructure for future electric buses. He characterized the procurement as staged to maintain an average fleet age of 5–8 years.

The Budget Analyst Office said the contract now covers 424 buses (269 delivered, 155 outstanding). The board‑approved contract to date totals about $412.2 million; the requested $1.5 million net increase would raise that figure to roughly $413 million. BLA said identified funding sources currently secure about $264.7 million and that the remaining approximately $149 million gap is expected to be filled by federal, state and local funding (including MTC annual fleet replacement funds, Prop K, OBAG, development fees and other sources) as buses are delivered. The BLA recommended approval and the committee forwarded the item to the full Board with a positive recommendation.