The Jacksonville Transportation Authority announced its Board of Directors has approved the CEO to enter into negotiations with MV Transportation, Inc. to provide paratransit and alternative transportation service to the Northeast Florida region.

The 10-year contract’s final cost won’t be determined until negotiations are complete, according to JTA's news release.

The RFP-solicited firms could accomplish the JTA's vision to maximize mobility solutions for the community, increase operational efficiencies through the commingling of trips, expand transportation services regionally, and further develop the associated technologies for full implementation.

“Today’s board action allows the JTA to move one step closer to becoming the premiere regional transportation integrator in Northeast Florida,” said Debbie Buckland, JTA Board chair. “We are optimistic that MV Transportation will help the JTA accomplish the MOVE2027 tactic to operate paratransit regionally and integrate alternative mobility services that contribute to a customer’s complete trip in places where bus service is not feasible or frequent.”

MV Transportation currently operates paratransit services for JTA in Duval County. The current paratransit contract expires on June 30, 2023.

JTA’s CEO will now negotiate the contracting mechanism required to address paratransit and alternative transportation service delivery needs on a regional basis.  

“This is a game-changer for the region; we prepared this RFP with the hope that the regional transit providers will be able to capitalize on this investment,” said Nathaniel P. Ford Sr., JTA CEO.

The established DBE goal is 40% for this project, which MV Transportation has agreed to meet. Two other firms were shortlisted for negotiations. If the negotiation with MV Transportation is not successful, the second company on the list will begin negotiations with JTA, according to the agency.