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Budget committee advances $118.6M Veolia paratransit broker contract, users and unions speak in support and caution
Summary
The committee recommended approval of a five‑year paratransit broker agreement with Veolia Transportation (up to $118.6M) after SFMTA described new mobile data computers, a shopping shuttle pilot and fleet replacement; public commenters praised service while unions raised local hiring and accountability concerns.
The Budget and Finance Committee recommended that the full Board approve a five‑year paratransit broker agreement with Veolia Transportation Inc. worth up to $118,599,710, with an optional five‑year extension, following an SFMTA presentation and public testimony.
Judson True of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency told the committee the broker model has served San Francisco for decades and oversees providers that deliver service to roughly 14,000 registered paratransit users and about 1.14 million trips per year. The proposed contract replaces the current broker, phases replacement of about 120 vans over the contract term, and adds two new components: mobile data computers on vehicles to improve scheduling and a "where's my ride" capability, and a twice‑monthly shopping shuttle for qualified participants. True said the two new items are grant‑funded and that the contract reimburses providers for costs plus a fixed management fee.
SFMTA and budget staff confirmed the RFP process produced the highest score for Veolia and recommended the agreement. Committee members asked about vehicle fuel types and green commitments; Annette Williams, manager of accessible services, said about 40 city‑owned vans run on biodiesel now and that durable hybrid paratransit vans are not yet widely available.
During public comment, disability advocates, paratransit users and union representatives largely supported continuity of brokered paratransit and praised existing services, while some speakers urged the agency to ensure local hiring, minority contracting, and oversight of program growth and costs. Veolia representatives said their broker office employs about 25 people locally and that they and subcontractors will continue hiring for drivers and dispatch roles.
With no objections from committee members, the item will move to the full Board with a recommendation for approval; any contract extension would require full Board approval in the future.
