LA Metro’s Transit Ambassadors, which started as a pilot program 13 months ago, could become a permanent arm of the transit agency but that will depend on whether the costs pencil out, according to a board motion approved on Thursday, Oct. 26.
While Metro directors praised the program for helping bus and train riders feel safer and more welcome, many directors were concerned that transitioning 350 ambassadors from contract workers to Metro staffers may not fit into the agency’s budget. Some also said canceling contracts with two small business employers may send the wrong message.
“This program has significant costs,” said Los Angeles City Council president and Metro board member Paul Krekorian. “Making it permanent and bringing it in house is a cost we don’t fully understand yet.”
By a 12-0 vote, the board softened the agency staff’s recommendation to complete the transition in 12 months, and instead lifted the 12-month deadline and required CEO Stephanie Wiggins to examine the cost to turn ambassadors into employees with full benefits.
Wiggins will deliver a cost analysis to the full board in April 2024.
Pomona Mayor and Metro board member Tim Sandoval, added the amendment that called for a cost analysis, despite singing the program’s praises.
“From my experience riding on the Metro system over these past two years, I’ve seen a dramatic change: A cleaner and safer system,” he said, noting that 63% of Metro riders surveyed said the ambassadors made them feel safer. He suggested that the ambassadors, who wear bright green shirts and welcome passengers, while providing directions and reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement and Metro security, may be partly responsible for increasing ridership.
An average of 938,167 rides were taken each weekday on Metro trains and buses in September. It marked the first time in 3 1/2 years that weekday ridership went over 900,000 boardings, Metro reported.
“I am very supportive of…
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