Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority public meetings in 2024

Budget Discussion

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority board discusses a proposed $333 million balanced budget for fiscal year 2026, highlighting aviation growth, rising Metro ridership, and strategic investments in system reliability, customer experience, and sustainability. The budget includes $29 million in Metro passenger fares and addresses inflation pressures and a growing capital repair backlog.

• $333M balanced budget proposed for FY2026
• $29M Metro passenger fares (pre-COVID: ~$35M)
• $24.8M Bailey Corridor Bus Rapid Transit allocation
• $10.7M for Electric Buses as part of system reliability
• $12M dedicated rail operating funding

The Board held a discussion regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2025/26 budget and the Strategic Plan update. No formal votes were taken during this meeting. Formal approval of the budget is scheduled for the December 12, 2024, meeting.

Surface Transportation

The NFTA Surface Transportation Committee meets to discuss financials, performance metrics, and updates on multiple transit projects, including the Bailey Avenue Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) initiative. The committee also reviews safety reports and community engagement efforts.

• Bailey Avenue BRT project receives $102.7M federal grant for design and construction
• $3M NY State funding and $650K federal Areas of Persistent Poverty funding allocated for Bailey Avenue BRT
• October 2024 operating revenues $115K (4.2%) favorable, driven by $116K (4.3%) higher passenger fares
• DL&W Rail Station project secures $30M grant for egress and core improvements
• NFTA awarded $6.6M FHWA grant for ITS4US accessible trip planning and autonomous shuttle services

The committee received updates on the Bailey Bus Rapid Transit project and various rail rehabilitation efforts. Staff requested Board awards for contracts related to the DL&W Station, DL&W Roof Rehabilitation, and Lafayette Square Station. No formal votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Requested Board award construction contract Change Order No. 11 to Cerrone (DL&W Station)
• Requested Board award consultant Supplemental Agreement No. 3 to Mott MacDonald (DL&W Station)
• Requested Board award construction contract to Patterson-Stevens (DL&W Roof Rehabilitation)
• Requested Board award design contract to WSP (Lafayette Square Station Rehabilitation)

Audit, Governance and Finance

The Audit, Governance and Finance Committee is reviewing the 2025 Annual Audit Plan and financial performance reports for October 2024. The body is also discussing the FYE 2026 budget and reports on safety, government affairs, and human resources.

• 2025 Annual Audit Plan totaling 4,460 audit hours
• Buy America/Contract audits for New Flyer buses and BNIA Runway 5-23 Project Phase 2
• October 2024 net surplus of $2,070,000 compared to budget of $1,626,000
• Year-to-date October 2024 net surplus of $10,515,000
• FYE 2026 budget discussion

The committee reviewed a tentative balanced budget for FYE 2026 and the 2025 Annual Audit Plan. Financial reports showed a positive budget variance of $3,032,000 year-to-date through October. No formal votes were recorded during this committee meeting; items were presented for later Board approval.

• Presented FYE 2026 balanced budget of $310.5 million for Board approval
• Reviewed 2025 Annual Audit Plan totaling 4,460 scheduled hours
• Reported October budget variance of $445,000 (positive)
• Reported October YTD budget variance of $3,032,000 (positive)
• Reported total cash of $324,396,000 as of October end

Regular

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority board meets December 12 to adopt operating and capital budgets totaling $310.5 million for fiscal year 2025/26 and to vote on eight corporate resolutions including grants, change orders, service agreements, and a lease. The meeting also includes aviation and surface-transportation business group reports on projects and contracts.

• Adopt Operating and Capital Budgets, NFTA and Metro, FY2025/26 ($310.5M)
• Authorize NYSDOT Urban Master Grant Agreement, Contract No. K007557
• Authorize New York State Office of Parks EPF Contract #228147
• Authorize Change Order, ClearSky Consulting, Infor Support Services, NFTA
• Authorize Agreement, Metalico Buffalo, Inc., Metal Recycling Services, NFTA and Metro

The Board approved the consolidated operating and capital budgets for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. The budget includes a $35 million increase in revenues and a $37.9 million decrease in operating assistance, while maintaining the $2.00 Metro base fare. Several infrastructure and service contracts for aviation and surface transportation were also authorized.

• Adopted FY 2025/2026 consolidated budget of $310.5M (7-0)
• Approved $12.4M construction contract to Rifenburg Construction for BNIA Taxiway A Improvements (7-0)
• Approved $2.15M roof rehabilitation contract for DL&W Station to Patterson-Stevens, Inc. (7-0)
• Authorized $12.1M NYSDOT Urban Master Grant Agreement for various transit projects (7-0)
• Adopted Aviation Strategic Plan for BNIA and NFIA (7-0)
• Approved $1.48M elevator and escalator maintenance agreement with D.C.B. Elevator Co. (7-0)
• Increased BNIA Premium Parking Rate from $3,500 to $4,200 annually (7-0)
• Authorized $794,080 in sole source bus part purchases from five suppliers (7-0)

Aviation

The NFTA Aviation Committee will hear updates on major Buffalo Niagara International Airport projects including runway rehabilitation, terminal HVAC and power upgrades, passenger boarding bridge replacements, and a new sunflower program to assist travelers with non-visible disabilities. The meeting will also discuss financial performance and future planning initiatives.

• Award Phase 3 Runway 05-23 rehabilitation contract to Rifenburg Construction ($50.9M)
• Approve HVAC replacement contract for terminal roof top units ($7.3M)
• Advance Passenger Boarding Bridge replacements at Gates 8 & 22 (NYSDOT funded)
• Launch Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program with lanyards and training for staff
• Review October 2024 operating revenues ($8.3M) and maintenance spending ($1.0M)

The committee received updates on runway and fence projects at BNIA and signage completion at IAG. Staff requested board awards for Taxiway A rehabilitation contracts. No formal votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Requested board award contract to Rifenburg Construction for BNIA Taxiway A Phase III
• Requested board award CM/Design Support to DiDonato & Associates for BNIA Taxiway A Phase III

Regular

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority board will review corporate, aviation, and surface transportation reports. The body is deciding on several procurement contracts, lease agreements, and design service awards for regional transit and airport infrastructure.

• Consultation Services Agreement with Gartner, Inc. for ERP-EAM Software Replacement Phase 2 for $1,593,296.00
• Purchase of six Cisco 9300 Network Switches from Zunesis for $243,360.58
• Lease agreements for The MTC Café (181 Ellicott Street), Geocove Inc. (247 Cayuga Road), and rprt, LLC (247 Cayuga Road)
• Design services contracts for LRRT awarded to Mott MacDonald NY, Inc. and Colliers Engineering & Design
• Aviation agreements for baggage control systems (Brock Solutions US Systems, LLC) and a John Deere Wheel Loader (Five Star Equipment, Inc.)

The Board unanimously approved 13 resolutions covering software replacements, airport infrastructure, and transit design services. Key actions included awarding design contracts for the LRRT and DL&W Riverwalk and approving several commercial lease agreements.

• Approved $1.59M agreement with Gartner, Inc. for ERP-EAM software replacement (Unanimous)
• Approved $243,360.58 purchase of six Cisco network switches from Zunesis (Unanimous)
• Approved 5-year lease with Grab and Go Shop, Inc. for MTC Café (Unanimous)
• Approved lease agreements for Geocove Inc. and rprt, LLC at 247 Cayuga Road (Unanimous)
• Approved $481,000 baggage control systems support agreement with Brock Solutions (Unanimous)
• Approved $2.8M stormwater and wetland maintenance contract with J.A. Brundage (Unanimous)
• Approved $320,000 purchase of a John Deere Wheel Loader for BNIA (Unanimous)
• Approved $515,223 LRRT design contract to Mott MacDonald NY, Inc. (Unanimous)

Surface Transportation

The Surface Transportation Committee meets to discuss winter preparedness plans, capital project updates including the DL&W Station and Bailey Avenue BRT, financial performance for September 2024, and performance metrics like farebox recovery and on-time service.

• NFTA-Metro winter preparedness plan: snow removal contracts, salt reserves, and Code Blue coordination
• Bailey Avenue BRT project advances with $102.7M federal grant for design and construction
• DL&W Station project construction underway with completion expected spring 2025
• September 2024 revenues $111K favorable vs. budget, including $56K higher passenger fares
• Farebox recovery ratio: Bus 24.1%, Paratransit 4.9%, Rail 12.1% for September

The committee received reports on winter preparedness, financial performance, and transit police activity. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Audit, Governance and Finance

The NFTA Audit, Governance and Finance Committee receives updates on multiple audits of transit contracts, quarterly capital projects, cash management, safety, workers’ compensation, and grants. The meeting covers compliance reviews for federal funds, revenue audits of airport concessions, and quarterly performance reports for the NFTA/METRO system.

• Post-delivery Buy America audit of $16.5M New Flyer battery-electric bus purchase (report due Nov 2024)
• Post-delivery Buy America audit of $7.1M Nova Bus transit bus purchase (report issued Oct 2024)
• Revenue audit of airport rental car agencies at BNIA and NFIA (fieldwork through Nov 2024)
• Quarterly capital project report with completed project analysis
• $1.9M net surplus reported for September 2024 vs. $1.4M budget

The committee reviewed financial performance, audit statuses, and grant updates. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Aviation

The committee is reviewing the status of multiple construction projects at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BNIA) and Niagara Falls International Airport (NFIA). Discussions include a new Airport System Strategic Plan and proposals to increase parking and rental car capacity.

• Runway 05-23 Rehabilitation: Phase 1 complete; Phase 2 is 80% complete; Phase 3 is out for bid
• Passenger Boarding Bridge Replacements: 14 bridges to be replaced over 6 years
• Luiz Kahl Way Rehabilitation: 2.6-mile road project with potential electric vehicle charging
• Terminal HVAC Replacement: $7.0M grant awarded for equipment replacement
• NFIA Tower Replacement: Siting study underway to replace the existing control tower

The committee received progress reports on airfield construction and security projects at BNIA and IAG. Members reviewed a summary briefing on the Airport System Strategic Plan and a financial report showing increased enplanements and revenues at BUF.

Surface Transportation

The NFTA Surface Transportation Committee meets to discuss Metro’s financial performance, passenger information systems, capital projects, and public safety. The committee reviews August 2024 financials, performance metrics, and updates on initiatives like Battery Electric Bus deployment and paratransit service improvements.

• Passenger Fares revenue down $108K (6.0%) in August; up $846K (8.4%) year-to-date
• Bailey Avenue Bus Rapid Transit project awarded $102.7M USDOT grant
• Battery Electric Bus deployment advancing with 45 buses expected at Cold Spring Station by end of 2025
• DL&W Rail Station project construction underway with completion expected by spring 2025
• Passenger Information Systems overhaul to revamp timetables and provide real-time data via third-party apps

The committee meeting consisted of staff presentations and reports. No formal votes or decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Aviation

The committee is discussing updates to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BNIA) and Niagara Falls International Airport (NFIA). Key topics include the progress of runway and terminal rehabilitations and a proposal to implement a Customer Facility Charge (CFC) for rental car users.

• Runway 05-23 Rehabilitation: Phase 1 complete; Phase 2 paving on schedule for end of September
• Passenger Boarding Bridge Replacements: 14 bridges to be replaced over 6 years; RFP for Gates 8 & 22 due mid-October 2024
• Terminal Standby Power Expansion: Construction contract award requested for The State Group
• Terminal HVAC Replacement: $7.0M grant awarded; first unit anticipated April 2025
• Proposed Customer Facility Charge (CFC): User fee on rental car transactions to fund facility upgrades

The committee received updates on airfield projects at BNIA and IAG and a presentation on Consolidated Facility Charges. Financial reports indicated increased enplanements and operating revenues for BUF. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Audit, Governance and Finance

The Audit, Governance and Finance Committee is reviewing financial performance reports and the status of several internal audits. These include a compliance review of a $7,108,692 transit bus purchase and revenue audits for airport concessions and parking.

• Post-delivery Buy America audit for 10 Nova Bus transit buses costing $7,108,692
• Revenue audits for rental car agencies at BNIA and NFIA
• Revenue audit for Delaware North Companies Travel Hospitality Services, Inc. concessions at BNIA
• Revenue audit for Executive Flight Services, LLC hangar and office leases at BNIA
• Revenue audit for SP Plus Corporation parking and shuttle services at BNIA and NFIA

The committee received reports on August financial variances, safety metrics, and federal grant awards. Staff recommended board approval for a $3.7 million state matching funds contract and a three-year labor agreement with Teamsters Local 264T.

• Proposed $3.7M NYS DOT matching funds contract for FTA formula grants
• Proposed ratification of three-year agreement with Teamsters Local 264T
• Proposed adoption of Triennial Title VI Program Plan Update

Regular

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority will review corporate, aviation, and surface transportation resolutions. Key items include funding for infrastructure, vehicle procurement, and collective bargaining agreements.

• NYSDOT Urban Master Grant Agreement (Contract No. K007557) for $3,676,738.00
• Procurement of eight battery electric buses from New Flyer of America, Inc.
• Procurement of six parking shuttles from Coach and Equipment Bus Sales, Inc. for BNIA
• Collective Bargaining Agreement with Teamsters 264T
• Roof rehabilitation (Phase IV) at 485 Cayuga Road with Grove Roofing

The Board approved several high-value procurements, including eight battery electric buses and a new aircraft rescue firefighting truck. It also authorized various infrastructure design contracts for the light rail system and airport power expansion, and approved a new landing fee tariff for Buffalo Niagara International Airport.

• Approved procurement of 8 battery electric buses from New Flyer of America, Inc. for $10,262,665.86
• Approved non-competitive purchase of one Oshkosh ARFF truck from Firematic Supply Co., Inc. for $1,495,000.00
• Approved $1.15M contract with The State Group USA LTD for passenger terminal standby power expansion at BNIA
• Approved landing fee tariff of $6.31 per 1,000 lbs GCLW for signatory carriers and $7.89 for non-signatory carriers
• Approved $840,800 agreement with Grove Roofing Services for roof rehabilitation at 485 Cayuga Road
• Approved $1.24M design agreement with Colliers Engineering & Design for LRRT standpipe replacement
• Approved $92,500 settlement payment in Margie S. Trotter v. NFTA
• Approved 20-year lease with Southgate Associates, LLC for Southgate Plaza transit center starting at $23,000 annually

Audit, Governance and Finance

The Audit, Governance and Finance Committee is reviewing the status of several ongoing revenue audits and corporate compliance reports. The body is also discussing June 2024 financial performance, which shows a net surplus of $2,398,000 against a budget of $170,000.

• Revenue audits in progress for Airport Rental Cars (BNIA & NFIA), Delaware North Companies Travel Hospitality Services, and Executive Flight Services, LLC
• Revenue audits in progress for SUNY Erie student bus passes and SP Plus Corporation parking/shuttle services
• Follow-up audit for Signature Aviation and interim audits for JE Architects/Engineers PC and Mott MacDonald NY Inc.
• June 2024 actual operating expenses of $18,851,000 compared to a budget of $21,405,000
• Year-to-date June 2024 net surplus of $5,856,000

The committee reviewed financial performance, audit statuses, and grant applications. Staff recommended the adoption of a three-year labor agreement and new Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation goals for board approval.

• Proposed 3-year agreement for Teamsters Local 264M Metro-link ADA Controllers (pending board approval)
• Proposed 17% DBE participation goal for FTA-funded projects 2024-2027 (pending board approval)
• Proposed 16.9% DBE participation goal for NFIA FAA-funded projects 2024-2027 (pending board approval)
• Awarded $5.0M NYS DOT grant for 10 battery-electric buses and charging infrastructure
• Denied $3.5M NYS DOT funding request for Empire State Trail reconstruction

Surface Transportation

The Surface Transportation Committee is reviewing rail renewal progress, capital project updates, and June 2024 financial performance. The body is discussing the rehabilitation of the DL&W shoreline and several light rail station upgrades.

• USDOT grant of $102,692,562 for Bailey Avenue Bus Rapid Transit design and construction
• Grant funding of $30.0M for DL&W Rail Station general and arena egress improvements
• FHWA award of $6.6 million for the ITS4US accessible trip planning project
• DL&W Station completion date extended to January 2025 via Change Order No. 9
• June 2024 operating expenses were $1,860,000 (12.2%) favorable to budget

The committee received progress reports on the $50 million Rail Renewal campaign and the deployment of battery electric buses. Staff requested Board awards for contracts regarding the DL&W Station, bus wash replacements, and Metro Transportation Center enhancements.

• Staff requested Board award Cerrone Change Order No. 9 for DL&W Station construction
• Staff requested Board award Greenway construction contract for bus wash replacements
• Staff requested Board award Wendel design contract for Metro Transportation Center exterior enhancements

Regular

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is meeting to review corporate, aviation, and surface transportation reports. The board will consider several lease agreements, labor contracts, and design service awards.

• Authorization for Collective Bargaining Agreement with Teamsters Local 264 for Metrolink ADA Controllers
• Design services contract awards to Wendel WD Architecture and McMahon & Mann Consulting Engineering and Geology
• Lease agreements for 247 Cayuga Road with Integrated Deicing Services LLC and J&G Merchandise
• Authorization to procure a John Deere Wheel Loader from Five Star Equipment, Inc. for NFIA
• Authorization for a bus wash replacement award to Greenway USA LLC

The Board approved several infrastructure projects, including MTC exterior enhancements and DL&W shoreline rehabilitation. It also authorized new lease agreements, a $70,000 legal settlement, and updated Disadvantaged Business Enterprise goals for 2025-2027.

• Approved $1.17M design contract for MTC Exterior Enhancements to Wendel WD Architecture (7-0)
• Approved $1.24M design contract for DL&W Shoreline Rehabilitation to McMahon & Mann (7-0)
• Approved $1.15M change order for Mark Cerrone Inc. regarding DL&W Station (7-0)
• Approved $940,000 bus wash replacement contract to Greenway USA LLC (7-0)
• Approved $70,000 settlement for Letia Commodore v. NFTA (7-0)
• Approved $160,497.66 software maintenance renewal with Hitachi Energy USA Inc. (7-0)
• Adopted 16.9% DBE goal for Niagara Falls International Airport and 17% for FTA projects (7-0)
• Approved $350,000 procurement of John Deere Wheel Loader for NFIA (7-0)

Aviation

The Aviation Committee is reviewing the status of several airport improvement projects, including runway rehabilitation and passenger bridge replacements. The body is also discussing a transition from AFFF to fluorine-free firefighting foam and reviewing June 2024 financial performance.

• Runway 05-23 Phase 2 construction including a two-month closure starting August 1st
• Replacement of 14 Passenger Boarding Bridges, with Gates 14, 20, and 3 due by April 1, 2025
• Rehabilitation of 2.6 miles of Luiz Kahl Way circulatory road
• Replacement of four terminal HVAC roof top units using a $7.0M grant
• Proposed $350 million federal grant program for firefighting foam transition and disposal

The committee received updates on runway and boarding bridge projects at BNIA and signage installation at IAG. Members discussed a mandated transition to fluorine-free firefighting foam and reviewed increased enplanement and revenue figures for BUF and IAG.

Audit, Governance and Finance

The Audit, Governance and Finance Committee is meeting to review the audited financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024, which received an unmodified (clean) opinion with no material weaknesses. The agenda also includes updates on internal audits, performance, cash management, safety, and other departmental reports. The meeting is informational and oversight-focused, with no votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Audit presentation: unmodified 'clean' opinion, no material weaknesses for FY2024
• Operating revenues up 5.8% to $109.4M; operating loss widened to $168.0M
• Net position increased to $272.7M from $166.9M, driven by capital contributions and interest income
• Internal audits in progress: Delaware North concessions, Executive Flight Services, SUNY Erie transit passes, SP Plus parking, and others
• May 2024 net surplus of $1.05M vs. $1.29M budgeted deficit

Lumsden & McCormick LLP issued an unmodified clean opinion for the 2024 audit with no material weaknesses or findings. The committee also reviewed May 2024 financial performance, which showed a positive budget variance of $2,343,000.

• Received unmodified clean audit opinion for year ended March 31, 2024
• Proposed three-year agreement with Teamsters Local 264A (pending Board approval)
• Proposed three-year agreement with EVERFI for employee training (pending Board approval)
• Proposed amendment to workplace drug and alcohol policy (pending Board approval)

Aviation

The NFTA Aviation Committee is meeting to review the status of multiple capital projects at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BNIA) and Niagara Falls International Airport (NFIA), including runway rehabilitation, passenger boarding bridge replacements, and terminal upgrades. They will also discuss aviation initiatives such as air service development, parking and rental car studies, and the airport master plan update. The agenda includes a financial and business update, as well as discussion items on air service performance and routes.

• Runway 05-23 rehabilitation at BNIA: Phase 1 complete, Phase 2 construction ongoing, Phase 3 scheduled for 2025
• Passenger Boarding Bridge replacements: 14 bridges, $14.97M budget, NYSDOT grant for 2 bridges, A-Bridge performance bond issue
• General Aviation Apron Rehabilitation: 95% design in progress, construction bids expected September 2025
• Security Fence Replacement: 2,300 linear feet, contract award requested to Woodsmith Fence in June 2024
• Luiz Kahl Way Rehabilitation: 2.6 miles, 70% design, construction bids expected January 2025

The committee received updates on airfield infrastructure projects and air service development. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Surface Transportation

The Surface Transportation Committee is meeting to review May 2024 financials, performance metrics, and capital project updates. They will also discuss community initiatives like the Thomas the Tank Engine train wraps and the Parks Adventure Bus. The agenda is primarily informational, with no formal votes or public hearings scheduled.

• May 2024 operating revenues $409K (17.7%) favorable to budget; passenger fares $390K (17.4%) favorable
• YTD operating expenses $2,257K (7.3%) favorable; personnel services $1,444K (7.3%) favorable
• Bailey Avenue Corridor Planning Study completed; $102,692,562 USDOT grant announced for design and construction
• Battery electric bus deployment: 10 buses on property, 14 more due later this year, 13 next year; $29M FTA award for 18 buses and charging infrastructure
• DL&W Rail Station construction underway, completion anticipated fall 2024; $30.0M grant announced for core and shell improvements

The committee received updates on rail station rehabilitations, bus ridership trends, and transit police activity. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Regular

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority board will vote on its fiscal year 2024 financial statements, several procurement and service contracts, a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 264, and an amended drug and alcohol policy. The board will also receive financial and operational updates for May 2024, including a net surplus of $1.051 million for the month.

• Approval of FY2024 financial statements for NFTA and Metro
• Authorization for NYSDOT Section 5311 operating assistance (FFY 2023)
• Procurements: Carahsoft (Splunk software), Zunesis (network switches), ComSource (software license)
• Collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 264 (airport supervisors)
• Lease agreement with Pharmacy Prep, Inc. at 247 Cayuga Road

The Board approved several corporate and aviation contracts, including a security fence replacement at BNIA and a new collective bargaining agreement for airport supervisors. The Authority also adopted an amended Drug and Alcohol Policy to comply with federal and state regulations. Financial statements for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, were formally accepted.

• Approved $1.5M contract to Woodsmith Fence Corp. for BNIA security fence replacement (Unanimous)
• Adopted amended Drug and Alcohol Policy to remove marijuana from prohibited drugs for non-safety sensitive positions (Unanimous)
• Approved 3-year collective bargaining agreement for Teamsters Local 264 Airport Supervisors (Unanimous)
• Approved financial statements for fiscal year ending March 31, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Authorized $81,000 NYSDOT Section 5311 Operating Assistance for non-urbanized areas (Unanimous)
• Approved $237,689.76 procurement for Splunk software from Carahsoft (Unanimous)
• Approved $166,972.59 purchase of 25 Cisco network switches from Zunesis (Unanimous)
• Authorized amended agreement with Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Inc. for ITS4US program not to exceed $6,675,101 (5-0-2)

Audit, Governance and Finance

The Audit, Governance and Finance Committee is reviewing the NFTA's April 2024 financial performance, which shows a net surplus of $2.4 million, exceeding budget by $846,000. The committee will also hear updates on internal audits, capital projects, cash management, safety, and other operational areas. The agenda includes a report on the NFTA Drug and Alcohol Policy.

• April 2024 net surplus of $2.4 million, $846,000 above budget
• Audits in progress: Executive Flight Services, SUNY Erie, SP Plus, Signature Aviation, JE Architects, Mott MacDonald
• Quarterly capital project report: $317.3 million FYE24 budget, $121.4 million actual spend
• Corporate compliance reports due to PARIS by June 30, 2024
• NFTA Drug and Alcohol Policy review

The committee received reports on April's budget variance, capital project spending, and workplace safety. Staff presented updates on pending audits and the receipt of a $290,000 law enforcement grant. No formal votes were recorded in the minutes.

Aviation

The NFTA Aviation Committee is meeting to discuss airport capital projects, including runway rehabilitation, passenger boarding bridge replacements, and other infrastructure updates. They will also review aviation initiatives, discuss drone-related security threats, and receive a financial update on airport operations.

• Runway 05-23 rehabilitation: Phase 1 complete, Phase 2 construction approved ($50.9M budget), Phase 3 design ongoing
• Passenger boarding bridge replacement: 14 bridges, $14.97M program, 2 bridges funded by NYSDOT grant, work on hold due to bond compliance
• General aviation apron rehabilitation: 70% design review, construction bid expected Sept 2025
• Security fence replacement: 2,300 linear feet, construction contract released for bid May 2024
• Luiz Kahl Way rehabilitation: 2.6 miles, design in progress, construction bid expected June 2024

The committee received updates on runway and boarding bridge projects and a presentation on drone detection. Financial reports showed Buffalo Niagara International Airport revenue and enplanements increased in April 2024 compared to April 2023.

• Requested board award construction contract for salt storage building to Hybrid Solutions

Surface Transportation

The Surface Transportation Committee is meeting to discuss the 2024 Transit Development Plan, financial reports, and updates on major capital projects including the DL&W Station, Bailey BRT, and Battery Electric Bus deployment. The agenda includes performance metrics and committee reports, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Transit Development Plan outlines projects through 2030, including Bailey BRT, North Division Street Transit Hub, and Metro Rail expansion
• April 2024 financials show operating revenues $103K favorable, expenses $934K favorable, net surplus $362K
• Battery Electric Bus deployment: 10 buses on property, 14 more due this year, 13 next year, $29M federal grant for 18 buses
• DL&W Station construction underway, completion expected fall 2024; $30M grant for egress and core improvements
• Bailey Avenue Corridor project advancing to environmental review with $102,692,562 federal grant

The committee received reports on the Transit Development Plan, financial performance, and capital project statuses. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Regular

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority board will consider several contracts, including a $925,000 agreement with Gartner Inc. for ERP-EAM software replacement consulting, a three-year real estate advisory services deal with Greystone, and various leases and agreements. The board will also review April 2024 financials showing a net surplus of $2.407 million, and hear committee reports.

• Authorization for $925,000 Gartner Inc. ERP-EAM software replacement consulting agreement
• Authorization for 3-year Greystone Management Solutions transit-oriented development advisory services at $273.44/hour
• Authorization for collective bargaining agreement with Assistant Fire Chiefs Association
• Lease agreements for properties at 247 and 251 Cayuga Road
• April 2024 net surplus of $2.407 million, $846K above budget

The Board approved a series of agreements including a $925,000 software replacement project, a new salt barn for BNIA, and roadway repairs for Metro. Other actions included approving a five-year collective bargaining agreement for Assistant Fire Chiefs and several airport and transit-related leases.

• Approved $925,000 agreement with Gartner, Inc. for ERP-EAM Software Replacement
• Approved 5-year collective bargaining agreement for Assistant Fire Chiefs Association
• Approved $672,346.20 contract with Hybrid Building Solutions, LLC for BNIA salt barn
• Approved $175,752.40 contract with Milherst Construction, Inc. for Metro roadway repairs
• Approved $364,100.13 change order for Mark Cerrone, Inc. regarding DL&W Station
• Approved agreement with Greystone Management Solutions for real estate advisory services
• Approved $413,700 estimated 5-year agreement with Braunscheidel LGS, Inc. for BNIA mulching
• Approved license agreement for IRace Timing, LLC to hold Run the Runway 5K at NFIA

Annual Regular

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) and its subsidiary Metro will hold their annual board meeting on April 24, 2024. The board will elect officers, adopt several policies (including whistleblower, harassment, and ethics), and approve numerous contracts and agreements for services such as waste disposal, safety footwear, road salt, and legal settlements. Financial reports for the fiscal year will also be presented.

• Election of officers for NFTA and Metro for the period ending March 31, 2025
• Approval of 2024-2025 policies: investment guidelines, master liability management, travel, and procurement
• Authorization for agreement with Casella Waste Systems, Inc. for recycling and waste disposal
• Authorization for agreement with JP Morgan Chase Bank for purchasing card program
• Authorization for settlement in Reuben Carawan v. Niagara Frontier Transit Metro System, Inc.

The Board approved several operational agreements, including waste disposal, safety footwear, and rail car wheel procurement. It also adopted updated corporate policies regarding ethics, harassment, and procurement guidelines, and authorized a $75,000 legal settlement.

• Approved $1.63M waste and recycling contract with Casella Waste Systems, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved $143,750 annual safety footwear procurement with Saf-Gard Safety Shoe Company (unanimous)
• Approved $2.47M traction motor overhaul agreement with Swiger Coil Systems, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved $179,926.60 agreement with UTCRAS LLC for 140 rail car wheels (unanimous)
• Authorized $75,000 settlement for Reuben Carawan v. Niagara Frontier Transit Metro System, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved $604,262 agreement with City of Niagara Falls for seasonal trolley service (unanimous)
• Approved $150,000 agreement with Arcadis Architects for NITTEC ATMS support (unanimous)
• Authorized $273,585 agreement with Transpo Group USA, Inc. for GBNRTC travel modeling (unanimous)

Aviation

The NFTA Aviation Committee is meeting to review the status of multiple capital projects at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BNIA) and Niagara Falls International Airport (NFIA), including runway rehabilitation, passenger boarding bridge replacements, and terminal upgrades. The agenda includes updates on the AIP (Airport Improvement Program) projects, aviation initiatives, discussion items, and a financial/business update. The committee will also discuss the Aviation Committee Charter.

• Runway 05-23 Rehabilitation: Phase 1 complete; Phase 2 construction to close runway August-September 2024; Phase 3 Taxiway A work scheduled for 2025
• Passenger Boarding Bridge Replacements: 14 PBBs to be replaced; $4.4M FAA grant for 4 bridges; 3 replacements planned for fall 2024
• Terminal HVAC Replacement: $7.0M grant awarded; contract authorized for Parise Mechanical
• Luiz Kahl Way Rehabilitation: 2.6-mile circulatory road; design advancing; construction bids expected June 2024
• NFIA Airfield Illuminated Signage: LED sign replacement; pre-construction meeting held April 2024

The Aviation Committee met to receive updates on airport infrastructure and financial performance. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded; the session focused on project timelines for BNIA and IAG.

• Reported BNIA Runway 05-23 will be fully closed from August 1 to September 30
• Reported terminal carpet replacements will cost $350k per year for two years
• Reported 14 jet bridges to be replaced over a 6-year period using NYS DOT and Federal BIL funds
• Reported IAG airfield illuminated signage replacement to be completed by December 2024
• Confirmed no changes to this year's Aviation Committee Charter

Human Resources

The NFTA Human Resources Committee is meeting to review its charter, an HR report, medical department statistics, EEO initiatives, and labor status. The agenda includes updates on recruitment, retention, and turnover, as well as the status of union contracts, with some negotiations ongoing or about to begin. This is a regular committee meeting to discuss these human resources matters.

• Review of the Human Resources Committee charter
• HR report covering 2023/24 recruitment, new hire retention, and 2023 turnover of 180 employees
• Medical department stats for physical exams and drug/alcohol testing
• EEO initiatives including supplier diversity with $8,572,983 in MWBE participation and 97% training completion
• Labor status update showing negotiations for Assistant Fire Chiefs, Teamsters 264A, 264M, and 264T

The committee received reports on employee turnover, recruitment initiatives for mechanical positions, and the status of labor contracts. No formal votes or policy changes were recorded in the minutes.

Audit, Governance and Finance

The Audit, Governance and Finance Committee of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority will hear reports on audit status, financial highlights, cash management, safety, risk management, government affairs, grants, and public affairs. They will also discuss committee charters and designate a financial expert. The agenda is largely informational, with no votes or public hearings listed.

• Audits in progress: Executive Flight Services, SUNY Erie, SP Plus, Signature Aviation, JE Architects, Mott MacDonald
• Financial highlights: Metro passenger fares $28.16M actual vs $24.19M budget (FYE 24)
• Cash position: $341.4M total, with $255.8M in investments
• Safety: 4 recordable injuries in March 2024, 19% increase year-over-year
• Insurance premiums: $6.86M net for FY 2024-25, 44.6% increase from prior year

The committee received reports on FYE 2024 preliminary financials, safety metrics, and insurance premiums. No formal votes were recorded for the proposed charter change or the designation of the financial expert.

• Proposed adding 'Grants and Development' report to the Audit, Governance and Finance Committee Charter
• Announced Commissioner Baynes agreed to serve as the financial expert for the committee

Surface Transportation

The Surface Transportation Committee is meeting to discuss and receive updates on several items, including the DL&W Station construction progress and proposed public art, financial reports, performance measures, and capital project updates. The agenda is primarily informational, with no formal votes or decisions scheduled.

• DL&W Station project total cost: $60,691,028, with trackwork at $38,352,953 and station at $22,338,075
• Proposed public art at DL&W Station by artists Rob Ley, Harumo Sato, and Joan Linder
• Bailey Avenue Corridor Planning Study completed; $102,692,562 grant from USDOT announced
• Battery electric bus deployment: 55 BEBs anticipated by end of 2025; $29M FTA award for 18 buses
• Fare collection system upgrade (MetGo) in revenue service testing; project closeout expected August 2024

The committee received progress reports on the DL&W Station construction and public art projects. Staff provided updates on Metro capital projects, including bus garage sprinkler replacements and chiller installation at the Metro Transportation Center. No formal votes or policy changes were recorded.

• Surface Transportation Committee Charter Review: No changes made

Regular

The NFTA Board will vote on revised operating and capital budgets for FY 2024-25, reflecting a $17.2 million cut in state operating assistance and reduced Seneca gaming proceeds, offset partly by federal COVID relief. They will also adopt five-year plans and authorize several agreements, including a settlement and a lease. The meeting includes financial reports and committee updates.

• Adoption of revised FY 2024/2025 operating and capital budgets for NFTA and Metro
• Adoption of five-year operating and capital plans through March 31, 2029
• Authorization for settlement in Colleen K. Mattrey v. NFTA
• Authorization for lease agreement with Helios NRG, LLC at 485 Cayuga Road
• Authorization to award construction monitoring contract to C&S Companies for NFIA

The Board approved revised operating and capital budgets for FY 2024/2025 and adopted five-year financial plans through March 31, 2029. Multiple corporate, aviation, and surface transportation contracts were authorized, including a major rail station rehabilitation project. The Board also approved a fare reciprocity pilot program with Niagara County.

• Adopted Revised FY 2024/2025 Operating and Capital Budgets (7-0)
• Adopted Five Year Operating and Capital Plans through March 31, 2029 (7-0)
• Approved $5,003,863.28 construction contract to Greenway USA, LLC for Church Street Station Rehabilitation (7-0)
• Approved $602,808.92 monitoring contract to Fennick McCredie Architecture for Church Street Station (7-0)
• Authorized fare reciprocity pilot program with Niagara County Connect Niagara (7-0)
• Approved $150,000 settlement for Colleen K. Mattrey v. NFTA (7-0)
• Authorized $343,050 construction monitoring contract to C&S Companies for NFIA airfield signage (7-0)
• Approved procurement of three Ford Explorer police vehicles from DeLacy Ford for $135,998.40 (7-0)

Surface Transportation

The Surface Transportation Committee is meeting to discuss paratransit customer satisfaction survey results and a paratransit study, along with financial reports, performance goals, and updates on capital projects. The agenda includes information items and reports from staff, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Paratransit customer satisfaction survey results and paratransit study with Nelson\Nygaard
• February 2024 financials: operating revenues $400K favorable, expenses $1,485K favorable
• Bailey Avenue Corridor Planning Study advancing with $102,692,562 grant
• Battery electric bus deployment: 10 buses on property, 14 more later this year, 13 next year
• DL&W Rail Station project: construction underway, completion anticipated fall 2024

The committee reviewed paratransit survey results and capital project updates. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.