First Transit Inc. has been awarded the contract for transit services for the Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority in Charleroi, Pa., beginning July 1, 2009. First Transit is part of Cincinnati-based FirstGroup America, North America’s largest transportation company.

The contract is a three-year agreement with two optional renewal years that includes the operation, maintenance and management of a fleet of 28 vehicles. The Authority will replace 6 of their older 1997 vehicles in 2009 with 6 new 40-ft, low-floor Gillig buses. First Transit will be responsible for management and operation of regular fixed route and complementary paratransit services that operate 7 days-a-week with reduced service provided on weekends and holidays. The Mid Mon Valley service area includes 21 jurisdictions and the provision of service to California University and daily commuter service to and from Pittsburgh.

“First Transit is dedicated to providing safe, reliable transit services that the passengers of the Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority can depend on,” said Brad Thomas, president of First Transit and First Services, “and we will utilize our expertise to ensure cost-effective, efficient transit operations.”

“The Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority is pleased to partner with First Transit in providing vital transportation services to the residents of the Middle Monongahela River Valley,” said Valerie Kissell, executive director of the Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority, “mobility options that are safe and reliable for our communities are the priorities of the Authority.”

First Transit works closely with its customers to develop expert, customized solutions to fit their specific passenger transportation and budget needs. From complete operations and transit management services to comprehensive preventative maintenance and inspection programs, First Transit provides its fixed-route, paratransit and shuttle transportation customers with innovative, reliable and cost-effective solutions.