Milwaukee County Transit System reports soaring demand for same day paratransit pilot program

A grassroots movement is gaining momentum within Milwaukee County's transit system, as concerns about the relationship between bus operators and management come to the forefront. During a recent Committee on Transportation and Transit meeting, supervisors highlighted the growing frustration among transit staff, particularly regarding mandatory overtime and lack of days off. "People are getting really fed up," one supervisor noted, emphasizing the need for management to engage more directly with operators to bridge the existing disconnect.

The meeting also addressed the performance of the Milwaukee County Transit System's Same Day Pilot Program, which aims to provide wheelchair-accessible rides for urgent needs. Initially launched with low ridership, the program has seen a significant uptick in usage after expanding its trip purposes beyond just medical and employment needs. In June alone, the program facilitated 334 trips for 448 riders, a tenfold increase compared to earlier months.

However, the program's success has raised concerns about sustainability. With demand outpacing capacity, officials are exploring options to manage costs and service levels. Suggestions include reducing weekend hours to bolster weekday service and potentially shifting to an independent contractor model for drivers, which could save costs but has met with resistance from some committee members.

As the committee prepares for budget discussions, the future of the Same Day Pilot Program hangs in the balance. Officials are urged to consider the program's impact on overall paratransit ridership and to evaluate the needs of a diverse group of riders who may not have previously utilized traditional paratransit services. The outcome of these discussions could shape the future of transit services in Milwaukee County, highlighting the critical need for effective communication and collaboration among all stakeholders involved.