Staff told the committee that BRT design and route expansions remain active priorities while Metro service contract costs are increasing; a contractor renegotiation in 2028 could push costs higher and the city adjusted its 2027 transit budget accordingly.

Staff briefed the commission on Metro Transit's 2025 budget shortfall and a projected deficit, explaining how audited service shares mean Fitchburg underpaid its 2025 share and could face higher contract costs when partners renegotiate.

At the May 14 meeting, staff reviewed the Madison–Fitchburg transit service agreement; commissioners pressed for clearer definitions of 'expenses' in the audited-share formula, timelier ridership reporting, reciprocal notice for service changes and protections if Metro assigns service to another operator.

Council approved a $4.2 million budget amendment to cover Fitchburg’s increased share of the North–South Bus Rapid Transit project—bringing the city’s total responsibility to about $5.7 million—after presentations from city staff and Metro Transit, public concerns about costs and district equity, and a roll‑call vote.