City Council approves extending JATRAN’s management contract

The Clarion-Ledger, 11/25/8

City Council members decided Monday to give city staff another 90 days to determine who will run Jackson’s public bus system.

In a 4-1 vote, members agreed to extend JATRAN’s management contract with Texas-based McDonald Transit Associates Inc.

The vote stops the city from taking over JATRAN in mid-December. It would have been the first time in more than 30 years the city ran its bus system. City officials have said they plan to use the 90 days to advertise and sign on a new company.

Chief Administrative Officer Robert Walker told the council that a company already has expressed interest. He said the city plans to have the request for bids out this week.