On August 5, 1980 the City and the New Port Richey Jaycees entered into an agreement with Metropolitan Systems, Inc. for the installation of up to 40 transit benches at various bus stop locations within the City Limits. In 2019 Metropolitan Systems, Inc. became a part of the COA companies. In June of 2019 discussions between City staff and COA staff began in an effort to modernize the existing 1980 agreement and bring it current with industry standards. The term of this agreement is for 10 years from the date of execution.
As part of the agreement COA will replace the existing concrete transit bench inventory with new steel black power coated benches similar to the City’s existing bench inventory within six (6) months of the agreements approval. The cost for the replacement benches will be incurred by COA. In addition, if bench pads and handicap ramp upgrades are required COA will bear the sole cost for the upgrades. Subsequent to the City Manager’s approval, advertisements will be allowed on the back of the benches except for in the Downtown area. Typically with these types of agreements a cost sharing methodology is included. The City Manager has elected to forego the cost sharing element in exchange for no advertisements on benches in the Downtown area and the installation of trash receptacles at various locations.