The city of McKinney announced today the McKinney Urban Transit District selected the Denton County Transportation Authority as its service provider. DCTA will manage the program of public transportation services that has a current budget of $350,000 per year, with taxi service beginning as early as June 1, and demand response para-transit service starting shortly afterward. The MUTD board voted on policies to re-establish limited public transportation services in the McKinney Urbanized Area during its April 5 board meeting. The MUTD board currently includes all members of McKinney City Council and representatives from Celina, Lowry Crossing, Melissa and Princeton. The board is hoping to establish service within the next 90 days. City staff said the data gathered from the taxi voucher program will allow the board to better determine the level of demand for public transportation services within the McKinney Urbanized Area. Taxi services under a voucher program allow qualified recipients to determine their own schedule rather than having to wait on a fixed-route service. Eligible users can purchase a taxi voucher for 25 percent of the voucher’s value with a limit of $400 per month, per user. For example, a user can purchase a $400 voucher for $100, or he or she can purchase a $100 voucher for $25. The policies established by the board will provide limited public transit services for seniors age 65 and older and individuals with disabilities as defined by the MUTD. The board also directed McKinney city staff to amend this policy to potentially include consideration for citizens in hardship situations.