Atlanta: MARTA to Privatize Paratransit Service

Nov. 06--MARTA patrons with disabilities and the MARTA drivers they depend on face an uncertain future after the transit agency board voted Thursday to privatize the operation and maintenance of its paratransit fleet.

Riders and MARTA Mobility vehicle drivers voiced their concerns at the packed meeting held at MARTA's headquarters at Lindbergh Center in Atlanta. More than 80 people attended, forcing the MARTA board to open an overflow room.

Drivers, who fear losing their jobs, are vehemently opposed to the privatization plan and sought to keep operations in-house.

The aim of outsourcing is to save money, increase efficiency and improve on-time performance rates, MARTA officials said. MARTA Mobility's on-time performance had dipped to 81 percent in fiscal year 2015, prompting numerous complaints from riders and putting the transit agency in jeopardy of violating a federal law that protects access to services for persons with disabilities. ...........(more)

http://www.masstransitmag.com/news/12135647/marta-to-privatize-paratransit-service