MBTA will not extend Keolis operating contract beyond 2022 NEWSWIRE

BOSTON — MBTA announced Thursday that it would not extend its contract with commuter rail operator Keolis beyond 2022. The announcement comes after months of complaints lodged at the operator for poor performances, particularly during winter, and losing millions of dollars.

Keolis was first awarded the eight-year, $2.7 billion to operate MBTA’s commuter rail operations in 2014.

NBC Boston reports that although there is an option to extend the contract for two years, MBTA will not do so and plans on having a new deal signed before the current contract ends. Keolis however will have a chance to bid for the new contract when it’s up.

“MassDOT will continue working closely with Keolis to provide excellent service to our customers for the duration of the contract,” Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack said in a statement to NBC Boston. “In keeping with good business practices, the MBTA is committed to evaluate the contract structure and initiate a re-procurement before the current contract expires. The decision not to extend the current eight-year contract is not a reflection of Keolis’ performance; indeed, I fully expect that Keolis would compete as part of the re-procurement.”

Keolis tells NBC Boston that it remains committed to serving Boston.