Brad Miller, CEO of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), has advocated for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to maintain exemptions that allow public transit agencies to contract with transportation network companies (TNCs). This statement was made in a press release on February 3.
"We urge the Federal Transit Administration to keep the current exemption in place to allow our existing partnerships with TNCs to continue providing life-changing mobility options in our community," said Miller.
According to PSTA, the agency has collaborated closely with the FTA to develop innovative transit solutions. It became the first U.S. transit agency to contract with Uber in 2016 and later received an FTA Sandbox grant to expand TNC-based paratransit services, providing more flexibility for riders. "The PSTA Board’s adopted mission is ‘safely connecting people to places,’ and we strongly believe the contracted services we provide using TNCs are safe and improving our customers’ quality of life," Miller said.
Since integrating TNCs into its service offerings, PSTA reports a shift in how paratransit riders use transportation. Many riders, particularly those with disabilities, have gained greater independence by no longer needing to schedule rides 24 hours in advance. "Customers, especially people with disabilities, loved the increased mobility that Uber and Lyft offered them," Miller explained, noting that riders now use the service spontaneously for social outings, errands, and work.
ITS Deployment Evaluation reports that a Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) pilot program using Uber and Lyft for paratransit services resulted in an 85% reduction in per-trip costs—from $59 to $9.10 on average. The initiative allowed the agency to increase trip volume by 30% while reducing overall spending. Similar cost efficiencies could be at risk if Uber partnerships are discontinued.
The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority is the public transit provider for Pinellas County, Florida, operating nearly 40 bus and trolley routes with a fleet of 210 vehicles. Serving approximately 14.9 million rides per year, PSTA has been recognized for its innovative partnerships and commitment to enhancing mobility for all residents. In 2022, PSTA launched the SunRunner, the region's first bus rapid transit line.
Miller has served as CEO of PSTA since 2011, bringing over two decades of experience in public transit management. Prior to joining PSTA, he led the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority in Iowa and held key positions in transit systems across Washington D.C., and North Carolina. He holds an M.B.A. in public administration from Syracuse University and an undergraduate degree from William & Mary.