SORTA taps Transdev for streetcar contract

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) yesterday approved a new streetcar services contract with Transdev Services.

The agreement covers an initial startup period, a five-year base contract and five optional one-year extensions.

Including all extensions, the contract is valued at $38 million, SORTA officials said in a press release.

Under the contract, Transdev will manage the Cincinnati Streetcar's day-to-day operations, safety accountability, and maintenance of vehicles, track, power systems, stations and maintenance facility.

"The procurement process was rigorous, thorough, and conducted with the highest level of integrity, and this contract represents the best value for the community," said SORTA Board Chair Jason Dunn, and added that Transdev operates the nation's largest streetcar system in New Orleans.

Five companies competed in SORTA's request for proposals.

As a result of the contract, Transdev expects to add 26 new jobs including streetcar operators, mechanics and administrate positions.

Slated to open in September 2016, the Cincinnati Streetcar will make 18 stops along a 3.6-mile loop.