Milwaukee transit officials face fare evasion concerns and contract scrutiny

Concerns over Milwaukee County's transit system took center stage during a recent meeting of the Committee on Transportation and Transit, highlighting pressing issues that affect both operators and riders. The discussions revealed a growing frustration with the current management of the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) and its contractor, Transdev.

One of the most significant points raised was the seven-year contract with Transdev, which some committee members believe is detrimental to service quality. Concerns were voiced about potential fraud and mismanagement, with operators expressing that fare evasion has become rampant, leading to dissatisfaction among paying customers. Operators reported feeling pressured by passengers who question why fare enforcement is lax, creating a challenging environment for those trying to do their jobs effectively.

The committee also discussed the need for improved security measures on buses to help enforce fare policies. Operators noted that the current system is failing, with reports indicating that fare evasion could be costing the system millions. One operator shared a troubling statistic: in just five hours of driving, they pressed the fare evasion button 96 times, indicating a severe breakdown in fare collection.

In response to these issues, MCTS management acknowledged the need for better communication and collaboration with employees and the union. They expressed a commitment to addressing the concerns raised during the meeting, emphasizing the importance of safety for both operators and passengers.

As the committee moves forward, the focus will be on bridging the gap between management and staff to improve the overall transit experience in Milwaukee County. The discussions underscored the urgency of addressing these challenges, as the effectiveness of the transit system directly impacts the daily lives of residents. The committee's willingness to engage in open dialogue suggests a potential shift towards more responsive governance in the face of ongoing transit challenges.