North County Transit District (NCTD) has announced that the Board of Directors has awarded MV Transportation Inc. (MV) the contract to operate and maintain its combined fixed-route, paratransit, and specialized transportation services.
Under the terms of the contract (which is for a seven year base term with one three-year option), MV will be responsible for the operations of NCTD's Breeze, Flex, and Lift services, serving an annual ridership of nearly 8 million in 224 vehicles. The total contract value is more than $450 million should the option be exercised, and significantly expands MV's footprint in southern California and the state in which the company was founded 42 years ago. MV will take over operations from First Transit on July 1, 2017.
"I cannot begin to describe how excited we all are at MV about this new partnership with the North County Transit District," said Kevin Klika, MV's president and chief operating officer. "We look forward to working with NCTD's leadership on a smooth and safe transition, and to improve upon the services currently being offered. Our number one priority is to implement and maintain a strong and positive safety and customer service culture."
MV has a wide range of experience, including in the paratransit field. MV’s experience in paratransit operations and use of technologies were crucial elements of their successful proposal.
"Our partnership with MV Transportation is aimed at increasing customer satisfaction and cost efficiency. It will improve our current services and support the implementation of new services that meet the unique challenges of our service area," said Matthew Tucker, NCTD's executive director. "We are also excited about the robust training, safety, and service management investments that were included in this contract to support contracted drivers and mechanics."