Gateway to Milwaukee

17th July 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                         Contact:        Jacqueline Janz (414) 937-3250

July 16, 2009      
                                                       
MCTS PASSES FTA REVIEW WITH FLYING COLORS

No deficiencies found in any of the 23 review areas

Milwaukee, WI – The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) is pleased to announce that no deficiencies were identified by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) in a recently completed triennial review. The FTA examines compliance with requirements in 23 different areas. This is the first time that MCTS has had no deficiencies since the review process began in 1994.

The Milwaukee County Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), and Milwaukee Transport Services (MTS) Inc., the managing company of the transit system, work together to maintain compliance with FTA requirements in order to receive ongoing federal funding.

“I commend the entire team at the Milwaukee County Transit System and the Milwaukee County Department of Transportation and Public Works for achieving straight A’s from the FTA,” said Supervisor Michael Mayo, Sr., Chairman of the Milwaukee County Board’s Transportation, Public Works & Transit Committee.  “These results continue to prove that we operate one of the most efficient and effective transit systems in the entire nation.”

While the review process reports only on deficiencies, the review team and FTA recognized areas of exceptional performance. These areas include vehicle maintenance and drug and alcohol testing. Additionally, MTS/DPTW efforts in safety and security procedures were identified as an example for other systems throughout the country.

“It is particularly noteworthy that procedures for safety and security put in place by MCTS and DTPW are serving as a model for others to follow,” said Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker.  “Congratulations to all of the employees and management on passing the FTA review and achieving this national recognition.”

MCTS emergency response capabilities were again exhibited last week as MCTS provided assistance during the recent fire in Cudahy.

“The FTA indicated that it is extremely rare for systems of our size to have no findings,” said Anita Gulotta-Connelly, MCTS Managing Director. “We are very proud of this accomplishment, as it reflects on the dedication of DPTW employees and our employees to provide quality service to our community.”

The Milwaukee County Transit System operates every day of the week, providing more than 42 million rides each year.