Detroit's proposed paratransit contracts include oft-criticized Transdev - Axios DetroitLog InLog InAxios Detroit is an Axios company.

Proposed paratransit contracts include oft-criticized Transdev

Photo Illustration: Lindsey Bailey/Axios. Map: Detroit Department of Transportation Detroit has said it wants to update its much-maligned transit service for residents with disabilities, but there's concern the latest potential change may just mean more of the same. Why it matters: Cities are legally required to run to help people who cannot access mass transit get around. Riders get picked up by a driver in an accessible vehicle. But Detroit's past program, contracted out through the French company Transdev, was . Users , skipped rides and difficulties reporting problems. The big picture: Transportation is a top concern among people with disabilities in Southeast Michigan, according to the .It's often cited among reasons for a higher unemployment rate and less economic opportunity among those populations. But paratransit in this region simply does not work effectively, Lisa Franklin, founder of , told Annalise . Flashback: Transit executive director Mikel Oglesby that the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) planned to solve problems by managing its own program in-house, instead of having Transdev manage it, and only contract out the part where companies physically provide rides. That decision came after City Council to Transdev's contract in 2021, despite member concerns. Oglesby said last year he was aware of the insufficiencies and that the department would take the year to lay out a "different," better solution. The latest: The city is proposing new contracts as it makes changes in an effort to improve service — but they still feature Transdev.Under two five-year headed to a City Council committee Monday, Transdev would provide 70% of rides per year for $49.2 million. Whitmore Lake-based People's Express would provide the other 30% for $15.9 million.The contracts require City Council approval. What they're saying: "We are in the process of creating a robust paratransit department based on the concerns of the community," the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) said in a statement to Axios. These contracts are just "a portion of the detailed plan that also involves hiring proper staff, setting up systems, scheduling operations …" Yes, but: "If they are largely going back with the same contractor … how are they making sure we aren't stuck with the same bad service for the next five years?" TRU executive director Megan Owens tells Axios. Get more local stories in your inbox with .Subscribe Support local journalism by becoming a member.

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