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Director warns making fixed-route free would trigger paratransit changes and staffing needs
Summary
DOT Director Mark Takamori told the committee that making fixed-route service free would also require paratransit changes, more buses and drivers, and adherence to paratransit scheduling limits; those operational requirements informed members’ cautious support.
Committee members asked how a fare-free policy on fixed routes would affect paratransit operations and staffing. Director Mark Takamori explained that because the department receives federal funding, changes to fixed-route fares carry parallel implications for ADA paratransit service and could require additional buses and drivers.
"If you make fixed route free, then that would also make paratransit side free," Takamori said, noting paratransit scheduling guidelines and shared-ride constraints. He added that higher ridership on fixed routes could decrease per-passenger cost but would also increase the need for vehicles and drivers to maintain schedules.
Members raised concerns about frequency and fleet elasticity; the director said backup drivers are typically available for breakdowns but large events or sustained demand increases would require planning with contractors and possible service adjustments.
