The board of directors of the Transit Authority of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (Lextran) awarded Transdev a one-year contract extension.

Transdev has provided executive leadership of all aspects of transit management and direction for the Lextran system since 2003, under the oversight of the board of directors. The service encompasses fixed-route bus and paratransit services for nearly five million passengers annually. The Lextran system serves greater Lexington with 65 fixed-route vehicles and 186 employees, providing 24 bus routes, in 67 square miles with 980 bus stops.

“We are dedicated to supporting our client in making the transit system more accessible, attractive and convenient to riders by constantly seeking ways to enhance the passenger experience. While safety remains at the forefront of our efforts, we are also strengthening our commitment to the environment and the community,” said Transdev GM Carrie Butler.

Lextran intends to diversify its energy resources in the coming years by increasing use of CNG vehicles and adding electric buses to its fleet for quieter, smoother rides and cleaner air. They received an FTA LoNo grant (Low or No emission vehicle deployment program) in February 2015 for the purchase of five Proterra battery-electric vehicles and two charging stations.

Lextran also offers local employers the ability to purchase transit passes in bulk to help lessen the number of cars on the road and to help to reduce environmental impact.

In July, Lextran launched the BluPass program with University of Kentucky (UK), which allows students, faculty and staff to ride Lextran services by simply showing their university ID cards. The program is funded by parking and transportation fees and allows participants access to all parts of the city on and off campus using any of the Lextran routes. The new program provides UK students, faculty and staff new options for mobility both around campus and across the service area.