First Transit Inc. renewed its contract for fixed route and paratransit services for the city of Pasadena, Calif., effective July 1, 2009. First Transit is part of Cincinnati-based FirstGroup America, North America's largest transportation company.

The contract is a five-year agreement that includes the operation, maintenance and management of a 36-bus fleet to service Pasadena's fixed-route Area Rapid Transit System and dial-a-ride paratransit services. Combined ridership for these services is more than 1.75 million passengers.

"First Transit is pleased to continue its relationship with the City of Pasadena," said Brad Thomas, president of First Transit and First Services. "With 86 employees dedicated to the Area Rapid Transit System and dial-a-ride programs, First Transit is fully committed to providing safe, efficient public transportation services on which the people of Pasadena can rely."