City Council Agenda Report
February 17, 2026
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Jesus M. Gomez, City Manager
BY: James C. Parker, Executive Director of Regional Transportation Theresa Clark, Transit Administration Officer
Janet Welde, Special Projects Coordinator
SUBJECT: CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. 5 – ADVANCED RESERVATION DIAL-A-RIDE / SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES
Background:
On February 3, 2021, the City and Transdev North America, Inc. (DBA First Transit, Inc.) entered into a Service Agreement for Advanced Reservation Dial-A-Ride (DAR) / Subscription Services for Norwalk Transit System (NTS). The contract term was extended, but the extension has since expired as of December 31, 2025.
NTS is requesting an additional term extension with First Transit, Inc. from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026. This extension will provide a “bridge” period and give NTS the opportunity to evaluate the feasibility of commingling the DAR and Microtransit Community Link service and to complete a related bidding process for future services. It will also ensure the continuity of the service providers’ familiarity with existing DAR customers and service area, so users of the program are not negatively impacted by a transition away from First Transit, if it becomes necessary. In accordance with Section 3.21.030(C) of the Norwalk Municipal Code, NTS staff is requesting to dispense with normal bidding requirements, as it is warranted due to such procedures being impractical and not fiscally advantageous to the City in this case, and because the welfare of the public would benefit from the continuation of service during this bridge period.
A four-fifths vote is necessary by City Council to allow this extension without bidding at this time.
Fiscal Impact:
The cost for the first six months of the contract totals $579,507, which is included in the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Transportation Department adopted budget. The remaining $579,507 for Fiscal Year 2026/27 will be included in the budget process. There is no impact to the general fund.
City Council February 17, 2026
First Transit, Inc. Amendment No. 5 Page No. 2
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Citizens Advised:
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Strategic Plan 2023 Implementation:
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Recommended Action:
Staff recommend City Council approve Amendment No. 5 to extend the First Transit, Inc. agreement from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026 for a total agreement cost of $1,159,014; and authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 5, on behalf of the City, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
Attachments:
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