The Task Force on Regional Transit Authority Performance and Funding released a report last week and is seeking public comment until March 29.
The report, A Vision for the Future of Massachusetts’ Regional Transit Authorities, examines the opportunities and challenges facing transit service providers. It concluded service is highly variable but that changes will benefit the economy and social mobility and will relieve congestion and pollution.
The task force issued 24 recommendations in five categories: accountability, environmental sustainability, investment and performance, service decisions, and quality of service.
Recommendations include that regional transit authorities should develop pilot programs that include innovative transit delivery models, provide reliable paratransit service in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements and actively participate in the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act process.
“The task force is pleased to provide these recommendations to help guide the executive and legislative branches to set a new course for public transportation across Massachusetts,” Astrid Glynn, Task Force chairwoman, said. “The task force evaluated RTA finances, service routes, ridership, paratransit accommodations, fare policies, on time performance and other factors and concluded RTAs must become more accountable, innovative and collaborative to meet customer needs.”
The task force was created in the fiscal year 2019 Massachusetts state budget.