Transdev announced it has launched a new partnership with Grand Rapids’ Interurban Transit Partnership, also known as “The Rapid," according to Transdev's news release.

Transdev said it is now responsible for the operations and maintenance of The Rapid’s paratransit fleet. The Rapid’s paratransit service is comprised of a few different services that are made available to its community members with disabilities, and to those living outside the fixed-route service area, car, and vanpooling programs. 

“Transdev will be supporting services that help The Rapid provide our community with essential transportation to get to work, medical appointments, and so much more,” said Deb Prato, CEO of The Rapid. “During the contractor selection process, Transdev demonstrated a strong familiarity with our needs, a quality leadership team, and robust experience with the technology we use for scheduling. We look forward to our new partnership with them and continuously improving the services we offer.”

In all, the Transdev systems support approximately 200,000 trips per year and Transdev will manage about 94 employees, according to the company.

“We are excited to work with The Rapid to provide safe, reliable, professional service to the Grand Rapids community,” said Bill Spraul, Transdev’s regional VP for the south central region. “We look forward to lending our expertise and making a positive impact on our riders and their passenger experience, through our commitment to safety, service and sustainability."