Ben Franklin Transit Board Approves Additional Dial-A-Ride Service Provider

The Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) Board of Directors at their Thursday, January 11, meeting authorized a contract increase with Nomad Transit LLC, DBA Via, to operate expansion services. This amended contract will allow Via to provide ADA Dial-A-Ride overflow trips, general demand services in Prosser and Benton City, and on-demand services to the Tri-Cities Airport. Based on BFT’s experience gained in using contracted services to support BFT’s direct operations, the Dial-A-Ride overflow services have been designed to increase reliability for passengers and offer more flexibility and efficiency in scheduling.

“These shared services will ensure we’re well equipped to support our Dial-A-Ride customers in the event of an increase in ridership and will provide consistency for our cherished clientele. We want to position ourselves to offer the most dependable service to our community,” said Rachelle Glazier, BFT General Manager. “Get used to seeing our BFT CONNECT Via vans in more locations, including Prosser and Benton City, as we strive for service excellence.”​

BFT plans to implement the expansion services in March; the details can now be worked out with Via and will include robust training and background checks for all staff. Additionally, the BFT Citizens Advisory Network (CAN) will be consulted throughout the process to ensure customers’ needs are the primary focus. Current Dial-A-Ride customers and all community members will be notified of the expanded services prior to their implementation.