Transit operations report: on‑time performance improves; microtransit ridership jumps

Transit operations staff presented March 2026 performance and safety statistics to the board. Bus on‑time performance was reported at 86% for March — above the board’s 85% standard — with 13% of trips arriving late and 1.8% arriving early.

Staff reported a slight year‑over‑year overall ridership decline of 2.5% for March, but local express and regional express routes showed increases (local express up 12.3%, regional express up 7.1%). The Blue Line and Gold Line reported ridership declines for March (9.4% and 19%, respectively); staff said that some non‑peak‑time declines and increased fare enforcement activity can affect month‑to‑month totals.

Microtransit was highlighted as a growth area: staff reported a 318% increase in microtransit ridership (just under 7,000 customers for March) and noted the service added two vehicles — from seven to nine — to meet demand.

Safety reporting noted one reportable bus incident in March in which a privately operated vehicle struck a stopped bus and one passenger reported minor injuries; a separate paratransit reportable incident was also noted with minor injuries. Staff said customer complaints are handled via the customer service division through app, email and phone channels and that the initial contact response target is a few business days.

Trustees asked about event service coordination for upcoming stadium and soccer events; staff said extra vehicles and express service can be added for large events as needed and that event providers coordinate service changes.