Meeting_Body
FINANCE, BUDGET AND AUDIT COMMITTEE
FEBRUARY 19, 2026
Subject
SUBJECT: ACCESS SERVICES - SEMI-ANNUAL UPDATE
Action
ACTION: RECEIVE AND FILE
Heading
RECOMMENDATION
Title
RECEIVE AND FILE status report on Access Services - ADA Paratransit.
Issue
ISSUE
This is a semi-annual update on Access Services (Access) focusing on Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 operational performance, community engagement and year-to-date financial status on Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit services in the region.
Background
BACKGROUND
Access is the Los Angeles County transit agency that provides paratransit services on behalf of Metro and 45 other fixed route operators, as mandated by the ADA. Access' paratransit service is a next-day, shared-ride, curb-to-curb service with additional assistance available to qualified individuals. The service is operated by six contractors in the following regions: Eastern, Southern, West Central, Northern, Santa Clarita, and Antelope Valley. Access provides service to customers traveling between locations within 3/4 of a mile of local bus routes and rail lines. Customers call Access service providers in the six regions directly to make trip reservations or book trips online. Eligibility for Access is based on a person's ability to utilize accessible fixed-route buses and trains in Los Angeles County. Access currently has 121,000 registered riders.
Discussion
DISCUSSION
Operational Performance (July 2025 - December 2025)
Through December 2025, Access provided more than 2.1 million vehicle trips, a 10% increase compared to the first six months of FY25 and 2.5% over forecasted ridership projections for FY26. This ridership increase is attributed to growing rider confidence in the service as evidenced by a historic low in customer complaints and continued demand from high trip generators, like adult day health programs. Access' contractors have been able to hire and retain enough drivers, both dedicated and n...
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