SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT

Transcription

1 SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE (PAC) AGENDA 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, 2013 Program Room #2, Benicia Community Center 370 East L Street, Benicia Public Comment: Pursuant to the Brown Act, the public has an opportunity to speak on any matter on the agenda or, for matters not on the agenda, issues within the subject matter jurisdiction of the agency. Comments are limited to no more than 3 minutes per speaker unless modified by the Committee Chair, Gov t Code (a). By law, no action may be taken on any item raised during the public comment period (Agenda Item IV) although informational answers to questions may be given and matters may be referred to staff for placement on a future agenda of the agency. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): This agenda is available upon request in alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by the ADA of 1990 (42 U.S.C ) and the Ralph M. Brown Act (Cal. Govt. Code ). Persons requesting a disability related modification or accommodation should contact Suzanne Fredriksen, Clerk of the Board, at (707) during regular business hours at least 72 hours prior to the time of the meeting. Staff Reports: Staff reports are available for inspection at the SolTrans office, during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. You may also contact the Clerk of the Board via at suzanne@soltransride.com. Supplemental Reports: Any reports or other materials that are issued after the agenda has been distributed may be reviewed by contacting the SolTrans Clerk of the Board and copies of any such supplemental materials will be available on the table at the entry to the meeting room. Agenda Times: Times set forth on the agenda are estimates. Items may be heard before or after the times shown. ITEM MEMBER/STAFF PERSON 1. CALL TO ORDER Richard Burnett, Chair (5:00 5:05 p.m.) 2. CONFIRM QUORUM/ STATEMENT OF CONFLICT Suzanne Fredriksen, Clerk of the Board SOLTRANS PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS James Cook Tom Bartee Richard Burnett, Chair City of Benicia STA City of Vallejo Daniel Smith, Vice Chair David Jones Keith Ward City of Benicia STA City of Vallejo Kathy Walsh Cori LaBrado Lou Bordisso City of Benicia STA City of Vallejo The PAC serves as an advisory committee to the SolTrans Board to review and comment to the SolTrans Board on the following matters: 1) service and fare adjustments, 2) the development of Short Range Transit Plans, and 3) the review of SolTrans' annual work plan.

2 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 4. OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT (5:05 5:10 p.m.) WORKSHOP 5. Workshop with National Express Transit Recommendation: Informational. Pg. 1 (5:10 5:40 p.m.) Elizabeth Romero, Program Analyst; Mark Foster, National Express ACTION ITEMS 6. Final Draft Coordinated Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP) for Review Recommendation: Accept the Final Draft SRTP and provide feedback. (5:40 6:00 p.m.) Pg Public Outreach Survey: Potential Service for Mare Island Recommendation: Approve/provide feedback on the DRAFT survey. (6:00 6:20 p.m.) Pg. 27 Elizabeth Romero, Program Analyst Ward Stewart, Program Analyst NON-ACTION/ INFORMATIONAL DISCUSSION ITEMS 8. Approved Service Improvements Recommendation: Informational. Pg. 29 (6:20 6:30 p.m.) Ward Stewart, Program Analyst NON-DISCUSSION ITEMS 9. SolTrans' Federal Title VI Program Recommendation: Informational. Pg. 51 Gary Albright, Program Analyst The complete SolTrans PAC Meeting Packet is available on SolTrans Website at

3 10. System Performance Report Recommendation: Informational. Pg SolTrans Public Outreach Update Recommendation: Informational. Pg. 69 Gary Albright, Program Analyst Ward Stewart, Program Analyst 12. STAFF BRIEFINGS This time is reserved for SolTrans staff to provide a five-minute briefing to the PAC on various items of interest. No action will be taken on these matters except to possibly place a particular item on a future agenda for PAC consideration. 13. NEXT MEETING 14. ADJOURNMENT The complete SolTrans PAC Meeting Packet is available on SolTrans Website at

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5 AGENDA ITEM 5 PAC MEETING DATE JULY 23, 2013 Solano County Transit TO: PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTER: ELIZABETH ROMERO, PROGRAM ANALYST; MARK FOSTER, VICE PRESIDENT-OPERATIONS, NATIONAL EXPRESS SUBJECT: WORKSHOP WITH NATIONAL EXPRESS TRANSIT ACTION: INFORMATIONAL ISSUE: National Express Transit (NEXT) began operating SolTrans public transit services on July 1, A workshop is being convened for the PAC members to allow NEXT to provide an overview of their priorities, values, operating practices and performance standards. DISCUSSION: After a competitive solicitation process that culminated on March 15, 2013 when the SolTrans Board took action, NEXT was identified as SolTrans transit services provider effective July 1, Since then, NEXT and SolTrans staff have been working diligently and cooperatively to ensure a smooth transition of services, build their working relationship, and establish expectations, roles and responsibilities of each party. Details on the work that staff has been doing since March may be seen in Attachment B, and the Agenda for the Workshop with National Express may be found in Attachment A. FISCAL IMPACT: This is an informational workshop and has no fiscal impact on SolTrans. RECOMMENDATION: Informational. Attachments: A. Agenda for National Express Workshop B. National Express Presentation 1

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7 AGENDA ATTACHMENT A Agenda Item 5 National Express Workshop July 23, Presentation by National Express to include the following: a. Overview of National Express b. Overview of Contract Transition Process since March 2013 c. Maintenance of Vehicles & Facilities d. Customer Service Overview e. Safety, Security and Wellness Programs/Projects f. Overview of Performance Standards g. Community Involvement 2. Public Comment 3. PAC Comments 4. Adjournment 3

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9 ATTACHMENT B Agenda Item 5 Solano County Transit SolTrans Public Advisory Committee Presentation July 23,

10 Overview of National Express Who is National Express? More than 40,000 employees worldwide. Bus, rail, and coach divisions throughout Europe and North America. We have been in the business of passenger transportation since the 1920s. Our senior management team has more than 150 years in transit, including 75+ years gained in California We are completely dedicated to passenger transportation. We understand the needs of the SolTrans service and we promote a culture focused primarily on our Core Values: Safety, Customers, People, and Community. Total Customer Service culture empowers all employees to be customer service representatives when serving the public. People are the most important element of our operation, including our employees and the passengers we serve. Strong corporate support is essential to the success of National Express and SolTrans. 2 6

11 National Express Contracts Transit Operations: We have 19 transit locations across the country with similar locations in: Arlington, VA Westmoreland, PA Greensboro, NC Boston, MA APTA Safety/Customer Service Awards Arlington, VA in 2011 Westmoreland, PA in

12 Organizational Chart National Express Vice President Operations Mark Foster General Manager Peter Behrman Corporate Support Team Operations: Best Practices Maintenance Purchasing Procurement NTD Reporting Value Added Services Safety: Industry Leadership Training Risk Management Information Technology: IT Help Desk Call Center Support Dispatch & Scheduling Enterprise Solutions Management Information Systems Human Resources: Payroll Benefits Recruiting Retention Labor Relations Operations Manager George Rodriguez Safety and Training Manager Angie Johnson Finance/ Administrative Manager Maintenance Manager Joe Chaney Maintenance Clerk (1) Lead Dispatcher (1) Lead Road Supervisor (1) Customer Service Representatives (7) Bus Stop Maintenance Technician (1) Technician-in-Charge (2) Advanced Service Employees (3) Dispatchers (5) Road Supervisors (6) Class A Technician (1) Class B Technician (1) Class C/Entry Level Technicians (2) Operators (56 FT 20 PT) 4 8

13 Status Since Contract Award Hiring and Labor Relations Applications and Screening Online application process Drug and Alcohol screening and Physical Examinations Communication and Training Orientation Sessions Safety and Customer Focus are our first priority Behind the Wheel training Hiring Existing operators and staff Additional operators from other Agencies New hires to the SolTrans services Labor Relations Meeting with the Teamsters Meeting with the ATU 5 9

14 Beacon Reporting 6 10

15 Status Since Contract Award - Hiring Position Existing Employees Other New Applications Total Hirees Total Proposed in BAFO Operators* Support Staff** Maintenance Management*** Total *Total number of Operators shown reflects 26 additional drivers than what was initially included in the Best and Final Offer to ensure a smooth transition and service reliability at start-up. **Support Staff includes Customer Service Agents, Road Supervisors, Administrative support and Dispatchers. An extra customer service agent has been hired to ensure a smooth transition. ***Management includes the General Manager, Operations Manager, Training/Safety Manager, Maintenance Manager, and Finance/Administration Manager. 7 11

16 Status Since Contract Award - Uniforms Uniforms have been purchased from a local DBE vendor 8 12

17 Status Since Contract Award - Maintenance Completing the Fleet Takeover Inspection which included reviews of: Body Damage Oil, Transmission, and Coolant Analysis Oil Leaks Tire Condition Opening relationships and accounts with vendors, both local and national Conducting Facility Inspection Cleaned/Painted Facility Purchased additional tools/lifts Retro-fit Shop vehicle 9 13

18 Status Since Contract Award - Miscellaneous Identification of hazardous bus stops Complete permitting/address legal issues Develop and implement reports in accordance with SolTrans reporting requirements In process of implementing a new phone system Weekly meetings with SolTrans Staff and National Express National Express staff has clear understanding of the contract and the labor agreements in place National Express is working with the labor unions and honoring all contractual obligations 10 14

19 Day One of Service July 1, 2013 Started operating SolTrans service All employees were designated National Express employees Fleet was detailed and cleaned Facility was clean and organized Supervisors were on the road Healthy Vending Machines were installed at the facility to promote employee well-being Started the Wellness Program Implemented Trapeze 11 15

20 Commitment to Excellent Customer Service 7 Dedicated Customer Service Representatives Continual commitment to on-time performance as one of National Express Key Performance Indicators Customer Complaints and Commendations handled respectfully and in a timely manner. If the Operator or Customer Service Representative cannot immediately resolve the issue, complaints will be handled immediately by the Operations Manager. Complaints directly from passengers will be passed immediately onto SolTrans for processing through the SolTrans complaint tracking process. If possible, all complaints will be resolved within 48 hours of receipt of the complaint. National Express working proactively with SolTrans staff to implement the new phone system at its customer service locations 12 16

21 Commitment to Excellence in Maintenance A clean bus is a happy bus. All vehicles will be clean and will present a positive curb appeal for the passengers of SolTrans Dedication to Highest Quality Preventive Maintenance SolTrans vehicles will receive Preventive Maintenance Inspections at the correct intervals based on OEM standards Compliance with CARB Compliance with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Rules and Regulations Cooperation in CNG Feasibility Study 13 17

22 Commitment to Safety, Wellness, and Security Safety, Wellness, and Security are intertwined concepts Safety and Training Based on DOT s Transportation Safety Institute program Hands-on training, including in-vehicle training on the first day Training for incumbent employees includes orientation with National Express as well as Customer Service module Vigorous Classroom and Behind-the-Wheel modules combined with on-route/on-road training provides a variety of opportunities for learning Periodic Safety Meetings and Refresher Training throughout term of contract Wellness Program and Employee Morale Promote Preventive Care Encourage Exercise Emphasize Education Curb Hunger Mindful of Mental Health Employee Bonus Fund The Heart and Soul of SolTrans Encourage efficient, but safe driving through the use of focused incentives Security Awareness - Installation of video security cameras for ensuring safety and security of both employees and customers Recent Safety Award from APTA demonstrates the value and commitment placed on safety and security

23 Performance Standards Performance Category National Express Performance Goal Service Type Passing a Passenger in a Wheelchair No Missed Wheelchair Passengers Fixed Route On-Time Performance Above 95% On-Time Performance Fixed Route Customer Complaints 2.0 complaints per 100k riders Fixed Route Securement All passengers with a mobility device secured correctly prior to being transported Fixed Route Productivity Exceeding 2.5 passengers per hour Paratransit Late Pick Ups No Late Pickups Paratransit Securement All passengers with a mobility device secured correctly prior to being transported Paratransit Productivity Exceeding 3.25 passengers per hour GP Dial-A-Ride Late Pick Ups No Late Pickups GP Dial-A-Ride Securement All passengers with a mobility device secured correctly prior to being transported GP Dial-A-Ride Missed Trips No Missed Trips All Services Reporting All Reporting Submitted On-Time and Accurately All Services Vehicles No Use of Contingency Vehicles, Unpermitted Vehicle Types or Excessive Number of Vehicles All Services 15 19

24 Commitment to Accurate and On-Time Reporting of Performance Data National Express appreciates the value of providing efficient, safe, and customer-friendly service to the public Reporting to be completed on-line through the Reporting Solution. National Express to provide SolTrans staff with up-to-date performance data at least weekly National Express recognizes the value of transparency in all communication, especially in the communication of accurate performance data Transparency allows for most effective use of data and dedication to continuous improvement Transparency is also the basis of continued trust between National Express and SolTrans 16 20

25 Ongoing Community Involvement Visits from the National Express Management Team to Community Agencies, PACs, Senior Centers and Community Centers as an introduction Plans in place to participate in the local Chambers of Commerce Provision of travel training and open houses to instruct ADA-eligible passengers how to use SolTrans fixed-route services, when feasible Plans in place to participate in community events such as Pista Sa Nayon and the upcoming Juneteenth festivities 17 21

26 Thank you! Questions/Discussion 18 22

27 AGENDA ITEM 6 PAC MEETING DATE: JULY 23, 2013 Solano CountyTransit TO: PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTER: ELIZABETH ROMERO, PROGRAM ANALSYT SUBJECT: FINAL DRAFT COORDINATED SHORT RANGE TRANSIT PLAN (SRTP) FOR REVIEW ACTION: MOTION ISSUE: Since the Fall of 2012, SolTrans has been collaborating with the Solano Transportation Authority s Consultant, ARUP, on the Coordinated Solano County Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP) for FY 2012/13 to FY 2022/23. This is a planning and programming document required by MTC and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for claiming federal funding. DISCUSSION: SolTrans has been working with the Consultant to review and finalize the SRTP and the Coordination Section. The Final Draft SRTP for public comment was released on June 18, The plan is comprised of four chapters with the key summaries and findings highlighted below and in the Executive Summary of the SRTP (Attachment A): Overview of Solano County Transit- SolTrans operates 11 local fixed-routes, five intercity express routes, and one supplemental bus route for the SF Bay Ferry. The agency also operates general public dial-a-ride service within Benicia, ADA Paratransit service for persons with disabilities, and subsidized local and intercity taxi scrip programs with specific eligibility requirements. Goals, Objectives, Measures & Standards- The performance measuring system is grounded in the agency s Mission Statement approved by the Board at the May 2013 meeting, which is: The mission of Solano County Transit is to deliver safe, reliable and efficient transportation services that link people, jobs, and our communities. Building on the FY12/13 agency goals, the SRTP identifies opportunities for ridership, regional coordination, service frequency, and land use goals and measures. Service and System Performance Evaluation- System performance trends for FY to FY show a decrease in ridership and service hours, while there has been an increase in fare revenues and operations cost. The decrease in ridership and service hours is attributed to the economic downturn and consolidation and elimination of routes. The increase in fare revenues and operating cost is largely driven by an increase in intercity transit revenue and operating cost. Data consistency limitations between the different operators make it difficult to analyze trends and compare performance before and after the consolidation. However, the rate of performance standards met year-by-year and the data collection practices since the consolidation show improvement. 23

28 Operating, Financial, and Capital Plan o Operating Plan-SolTrans plans to maintain its current level of service on all of its local and intercity services. In FY and FY , staff proposes to add about 2,000 revenue hours each year to the most productive local routes for a modest fixed route service expansion of almost 5%. o Financial Plan- Under the current baseline assumptions, the operating plan generates an annual declining surplus every year until the last year of the plan. The operating deficit in the final year is small enough that it can be covered with available TDA reserves. Over the long-term and beyond the 10 year horizon, SolTrans will need to evaluate its expense and revenue trends to find ways to reserve TDA funds as contingency for unexpected operating and capital needs. o Capital Plan-SolTrans has developed a ten-year program of capital projects to maintain its assets in a state of good repair. Many of the capital projects have committed funding from multiple funding sources, however some new larger projects such as the SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride Hub may need to be deferred if not all of the local and regional funding can be obtained. The capital projects programmed use up nearly all the TDA reserves over the 10 year horizon. The Draft SRTP was presented to the SolTrans Board of Directors on Thursday, June 27, Mayor Osby requested review of the financial projections to ensure planning efforts would be undertaken to prevent a deficit from occurring in the last year of the 10 year planning horizon. In addition to the proposed review by the SolTrans PAC and peer agencies, the Board also requested that the document be made available for general public comment. The SRTP is available for comment through and via hard copy at the Vallejo Transit Center by contacting the Board Clerk. The public comment and approval timeline was revised since our last PAC meeting to allow adequate time for public comment, SolTrans Committee reviews, and Board review (Attachment B). After the close of the public comment period on July 24, 2013, the final SRTP will be presented to the SolTrans Board at the August 15, 2013 meeting. The Coordination Section will also be presented to the SolTrans Board at that meeting, as the final draft is not expected to be completed until August Staff will seek approval on both the SolTrans SRTP and Coordination Section on that date to allow for timely submission to MTC. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact to the agency by participating in the completion of the Coordinated SRTP. In fact, SolTrans is benefiting from the fact that MTC and STA are jointly funding the completion of the document, which is a federal requirement for maintaining grant eligibility. RECOMMENDATION: Accept the Final Draft SRTP and provide feedback; Attachments: A. Final Draft SRTP (to be provided to the PAC under separate cover; copies may also be requested by contacting the Board Clerk: ) B. SRTP and Coordinated Plan Approval Timeline 24

29 Solano Transportation Authority Coordinated SRTP Due Dates and Review Time Frames Coordination Section SRTP (one for each operator) Administrative Draft May 6, 2013 April 26, 2013 STA Staff Review May 6-15 April 26 - May 6 Draft to Transit Operators May 21, 2013 May 10, 2013 Transit Operator May 21 - June 6 May 10 - May 28 Consortium Meeting/Action May 28 - Discussion Item NA Arup Team Incorporates Comments June 6 - June 10 May 28 - June 5 Final Review by STA June 10 - June 11 June 5 - June 7 Final to Transit Operators June 12, 2013 June 10, 2013 Consortium Meeting/Action June 25 - Action Item NA Council/Board review and approval 1 STA Board Review and Approval Months of July and August = City Council and SolTrans Board Approvals, plus public input as required Approve Coordination Section September 11 Months of June and July = City Council and SolTrans Board Approvals, plus public input as required => June 18 Fairfield City Council => June 18 Rio Vista City Council => June 20 SolTrans Board Review Draft SRTP June 12 Approve Final SRTP After City Councils Approve, but not later than September Coordination report will be available by June 25 and SRTPs will be available by June 10th. Transit operators will coordinate City Council and Board approvals. All final counci/board actions are anticipated by the end of August. Dates identified for SRTP approvals are tentative. Updated May 20,

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31 AGENDA ITEM 7 PAC MEETING DATE: JULY 23, 2013 Solano County Transit TO: PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTER: WARD STEWART, PROGRAM ANALYST SUBJECT: PUBLIC OUTREACH SURVEY: POTENTIAL SERVICE FOR MARE ISLAND ACTION: MOTION ISSUE: Should a new route or an extension of an existing route be considered to provide service to the residents, businesses, schools and other points of interest located on Mare Island? DISCUSSION: SolTrans does not provide any form of fixed or limited fixed route service to Mare Island. However, the Island includes a growing list of points of interest including: Touro University Veterans Affairs (VA) Outpatient Clinic Vallejo City Unified School District (VCUSD) Offices Mare Island Health and Fitness Academy Congressman Thompson and State Senator Wolk Field Offices Global Center for Success Mare Island Sports Center ( Roundhouse ) Approximately 250 residences (mostly single family homes) Approximately 2,000 employees of industrial and commercial businesses SolTrans staff recently met with local stakeholders to discuss the potential interest and feasibility for new route service to Mare Island. In order to analyze the potential interest for new service, staff has developed a draft ridership survey for review and comment. The draft survey is intended to gather ridership data from students, faculty, staff, residents, property owners, employees, employers and other interested parties who frequently travel to and from the Island. The draft survey includes questions to determine: customer market trip origins and destinations travel distances travel times of day frequency of travel/demand willingness to pay current travel methods access to a vehicle reasoning/rationale for current travel methods, and what conditions would make public transportation a viable/favorable travel method 27

32 Once feedback has been provided, the ridership survey will be distributed to Mare Island stakeholders in August Stakeholders will distribute the survey electronically and in print format through their distribution networks. Staff will promote survey participation with on-board car cards, posts on the SolTrans Website, Facebook and Twitter, Press Release, posts on Benicia and Vallejo Government television stations, Vallejo Community Access Television, outreach at public events and targeted outreach delivered to points of interest on Mare Island. At the conclusion of the survey period, staff will present the data/feedback to the SolTrans Board of Directors, PAC, TAC and SolTrans Executive Management Committee for further discussion and analysis. FISCAL IMPACT: To be determined based on ridership feedback and service levels under consideration. RECOMMENDATION: Approve/provide feedback on the DRAFT survey. Attachments: A. Draft Rider Survey for Potential Transit Service for Mare Island (to be provided to the SolTrans PAC under separate cover; copies may also be requested by contacting the Board Clerk: ) 28

33 AGENDA ITEM 8 PAC MEETING DATE: JULY 23, 2013 Solano County Transit TO: STAFF PRESENTOR: SUBJECT: AGENDA ACTION: PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE WARD STEWART, PROGRAM ANALYST APPROVED SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS INFORMATIONAL ISSUE: Staff has identified potential improvements to the fixed route system that would provide for more safe, effective and efficient service. At this time, staff would like to give an update on the progress of these approved service changes and the expected implementation timeline. DISCUSSION: At the May 28, 2013 regular PAC Meeting, the committee endorsed pursuing improvements to the fixed route system and provided feedback on the proposed service changes as shown below. The public comment period extended to June 14 th, with public comments primarily focusing on whether route schedules would be modified or if specific bus stops that riders use personally would be relocated/eliminated. Rider feedback was received through the customer service phone number, the SolTrans website comment card, and through in-person discussions at public outreach events. With public comment period completed, the Board of Directors took action at the June 27 th Board Meeting approving the proposed service changes. Details of the outreach process are attached as Attachment A. The following table provides a summary of the service changes and reasoning: Route 3 Route 7 Route 78 Limited Service Route14 Proposal Extend Route to serve Cal Maritime University. Create new stops to serve Cal Maritime and Carquinez Highland Mobile Home Park. Put bus into service 5 minutes earlier on first AM trip to provide inbound service to Vallejo Transit Center. Eliminate the layover on the last inbound trip (towards the Vallejo Transit Center VTC) at Military/First St., which is not necessary. Discontinue Route 29 Reasoning University requested and offered to collaborate and assist in subsidizing to maintain 35% farebox recovery Customer request. Customer and Operator request. Will reduce Route 78 operating expense by removing 15 minutes at end of trip. VCUSD plans to provide School Bus Transportation to this service area. Route 14 projects to have the fewest passenger trips (6,798) of any Local Route.

34 Bus Stop Relocations Bus Stops relocated to sidewalks. Route 14 projects to have the lowest farebox total ($10,906) in the entire system. Route 14 projects to have the lowest farebox recovery Ratio of any Local Route (8%). Route 14 projects to have the highest Operating Cost/hr. in the entire system ($407.58/hr). Relocate Bus Stops to nearby sidewalks to provide greater accessibility. The approved service changes are proposed to be implemented mid-august to coincide with the start of the new school year. FISCAL IMPACT: Implementing the Proposed Changes on Routes 3, 7 and 78 would result in a cost increase on Route 3 of approximately $48,363, an estimated increase on Route 7 of $2,102 and an estimated savings on Route 78 of $7,780. See Attachment B. RECOMMENDATION: Informational. Attachments: A. Outreach Plan B. Financial Impact C. Proposed Service Changes Summary D. Route 3 Proposal, Rider Alert, May 28, 2013 E. Route 7 Proposal, Rider Alert,, May 28, F. Route 78 Proposal, Rider Alert, May 28, 2013, 2013 G. Route 3 Schedule Proposed for Implementation on August 19, 2013 H. Route 7 Schedule Proposed for Implementation on August 19, 2013 I. Route 78 Schedule Proposed for Implementation on August 19, 2013 J. Route 3 Service Map Proposed for Implementation on August 19,

35 ATTACHMENT A Agenda Item 8 Public Outreach Plan The following is a list of steps taken as part of the public outreach process: 1. Proposed Changes were presented to the SolTrans Board of Directors, PAC, TAC and SolTrans Executive Management Committee. 2. Staff met and discussed proposal with Benicia Unified School District and Vallejo City Unified School District. 3. Proposed Changes were released for Public Outreach and Feedback. a. Route-specific rider alerts were posted on buses, at VTC and at stop locations. b. Car Cards were posted on buses with all proposed service changes. c. Service changes were posted for public on Website, Facebook and Twitter. d. Press Release was sent out to newspapers, broadcast media and daily publications. e. Proposed changes were posted on both Benicia and Vallejo Government television stations and Vallejo Community Access Television. f. Staff met with Public at SolTrans Pista Sa Nayon Booth and at Vallejo Farmer s Market to discuss proposed changes. g. Targeted outreach delivered to residents of the Carquinez Highlands Mobile Home Park. 4. Routes have been analyzed and test-tripped. 5. Proposed Changes were revised, based upon: public feedback, stakeholder feedback and committee input. 31

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37 ATTACHMENT B Agenda Item 8 Fiscal Impact Estimated Costs and Revenues Routes 3, 7, 78 Route 3 Route 7 Route 78 Total (Routes 3, 7, 78) Estimated Annual Cost Increase $48,363 $2,102 $-7,780 $42,685 Cal Maritime Contribution $20,000 NA NA $20,000 Route Total Estimated Costs* $527,346 $839,201 $1,290,341 $2,656,888 Estimated Farebox Revenues (with Cal Maritime contribution included $147,971 $206,171 $330,026 $684,169 in Route 3) Estimated Farebox Recovery Ratio 28% 25% 26% 26% NOTE: Expected Farebox Recovery Ratio without proposed changes (status quo routing) *Costs calculated based on estimated FY Cost Per Hour 24% 25% 26% 25% In addition, implementing the proposal to eliminate Limited Service Route 14 would return approximately $143,785 in operating expenses; however the agency would not receive $10,906 in fares, for a net savings of $132,879. Table 3: Estimated Costs and Revenues Route 14 Route 14 Total Route Estimated Costs* $143,785 Estimated Farebox Revenues $10,906 Estimated Farebox Recovery Ratio 8% *Costs calculated based on estimated FY Cost Per Hour 33

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39 ATTACHMENT C Proposed Service Changes Summary Schedule Changes Route Location Current Proposed Comments 78 Military/First NB 8:35 PM 8:20 PM 7 Rotary/Admiral Callaghan 3 Maritime Academy Dr - Country Ln. - Seaport Dr. Not in service until Gateway Plaza at 6:30 AM Not Currently Served 6:25 AM Service Extension Begin Route 7 earlier (to provide inbound service to transit center) Route 3, with service to Cal Maritime and surrounding neighborhood. Limited Service Routes 12, 15, 17 Vallejo and Benicia Schools N/A N/A Revise routes to match with school schedules, and remove any overlap with school bus service Limited Service Route 14 Glen Cove to Jesse Bethel High School N/A Discontinue Route VCUSD plans to provide service to this area Bus Stops Route Stop to be Removed New Stop Location Comments 3 N/A Cal Maritime Gate New Stop 3 N/A Carquinez Highlands Mobile Home Park New Stop 3 Seaport/Sandy Beach Sandy Beach/Seaport Relocated to sidewalk 3 Porter/Adams Porter/Adams Relocated to sidewalk 3 5 th /Sonoma Sonoma/Maritime Academy Dr. Relocated to sidewalk 7 Ascot/Columbus Columbus/Ascot Relocated to sidewalk 7 Ascot/Locust N/A Served by same stop as above Various Mare Island/Maine N/A Served by Vallejo Transit Center 35

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41 RIDER ALERT Proposed Changes to Route 3 Route extension to Cal Maritime Academy.* Bus stops to be added for new service areas. Various bus stops to be relocated to provide improved accessibility. * Route extension to Cal Maritime is proposed for a year-long test period. SolTrans would greatly appreciate your feedback on these proposed changes by June 14, For more information and to submit your comments, please visit our website or contact us via one of the following formats: Mail: 311 Sacramento Street, Vallejo, CA Web: ( Leave a Comment, at bottom of each page) Phone:

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43 RIDER ALERT Proposed Changes to Route 7 Route 7 is proposed to begin service 5 minutes earlier in the morning (6:25 a.m.), to provide a first stop at Admiral Callaghan and Rotary (in front of Avery Greene Honda). The bus will continue to Gateway as scheduled, there are no other changes to the schedule. Various bus stops to be relocated to provide improved accessibility near Ascot/Columbus. SolTrans would appreciate your feedback on these proposed changes by June 14, For more information and to submit your comments, please visit our website or contact us via one of the following formats: Mail: 311 Sacramento Street, Vallejo, CA Web: ( Leave a Comment, at bottom of each page) Phone: Release Date: May 28,

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45 RIDER ALERT Proposed Change to Route 78 The 8:35 p.m. departure time for the bus stop at Military/First St. is proposed to be changed to 8:20 p.m. No other Route 78 stops or times are proposed to change at this time. SolTrans would greatly appreciate your feedback on these proposed changes by June 14, For more information and to submit your comments, please visit our website or contact us via one of the following formats: Mail: 311 Sacramento Street, Vallejo, CA Web: ( Leave a Comment, at bottom of each page) Phone:

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47 Route 3 Schedule Proposed for Implementation on August 19, 2013 Route 3 - Glen Cove / Beverly Hills / Cal Maritime / Vallejo Transit Center Weekday EASTBOUND WESTBOUND Vallejo Transit Center Curtola Park & Ride End of Glen Cove Beverly Hills Elementary Cal Maritime Porter/ Winchester Vallejo Transit Center 6:21 6:32 6:41 6:50 7:00 7:00 7:05 7:15 7:26 7:35 7:44 8:00 7:30 7:35 7:45 7:56 8:05 8:14 8:30 G 8:00 8:05 8:15 8:26 8:35 8:44 9:00 9:00 9:05 9:15 9:26 9:35 9:44 10:00 10:00 10:05 10:15 10:26 10:35 10:44 11:00 11:00 11:05 11:15 11:26 11:35 11:44 12:00 12:00 12:05 12:15 12:26 12:35 12:44 1:00 1:00 1:05 1:15 1:26 1:35 1:44 2:00 2:00 2:05 2:15 2:26 2:35 2:44 3:00 3:00 3:05 3:15 3:26 3:35 3:44 4:00 4:00 4:05 4:15 4:26 4:35 4:44 5:00 4:30 4:35 4:45 4:56 5:05 5:14 5:30 5:00 5:05 5:15 5:26 5:35 5:44 6:00 5:30 5:35 5:45 5:56 6:05 6:14 6:30 6:00 6:05 6:15 6:26 6:35 6:44 7:00 G 6:30 6:35 6:45 6:56 7:05 7:14 7:30 G Saturday EASTBOUND WESTBOUND Vallejo Transit Center Curtola Park & Ride End of Glen Cove Beverly Hills Elementary Cal Maritime Porter/ Winchester Vallejo Transit Center 6:45 6:56 7:07 7:16 7:30 7:30 7:35 7:45 7:56 8:05 8:14 8:30 8:30 8:35 8:45 8:56 9:05 9:14 9:30 9:30 9:35 9:45 9:56 10:05 10:14 10:30 10:30 10:35 10:45 10:56 11:05 11:14 11:30 11:30 11:35 11:45 11:56 12:05 12:14 12:30 12:30 12:35 12:45 12:56 1:05 1:14 1:30 1:30 1:35 1:45 1:56 2:05 2:14 2:30 2:30 2:35 2:45 2:56 3:05 3:14 3:30 3:30 3:35 3:45 3:56 4:05 4:14 4:30 4:30 4:45 4:45 4:56 5:05 5:14 5:30 5:30 5:45 5:45 5:56 6:05 6:05 6:30 G P.M. times in bold G= Bus returning to garage; passengers must disembark 43

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49 Route 7 Weekday Schedule Proposed for Implementation on August 19, 2013 OUTBOUND INBOUND Vallejo Springs Ascot Gateway Gateway Ascot Springs Rd/ Pkway/ Rotary/ Plaza Plaza Pkway/ Rd/ Vallejo Transit Oakwood Columbu Admiral Shopping Shopping Columbu s Callaghan Center Center s Oakwood Transit Center Center 6:25 6:30 6:30 6:42 6:50 7:05 6:30 6:45 6:53 7:03 7:08 7:15 7:27 7:35 7:50 7:10 7:25 7:33 7:43 7:48 7:52 8:04 8:12 8:27 7:30 7:45 7:53 8:03 8:08 8:15 8:27 8:35 8:50 8:00 8:15 8:23 8:33 8:38 8:45 8:57 9:05 9:20 8:30 8:45 8:53 9:03 9:08 9:15 9:27 9:35 9:50 9:00 9:15 9:23 9:33 9:38 9:45 9:57 10:05 10:20 G 9:30 9:45 9:53 9:03 10:08 10:15 10:27 10:35 10:50 10:00 10:15 10:23 10:33 10:38 10:45 10:57 11:05 11:20 11:00 11:15 11:23 11:33 11:38 11:45 11:57 12:05 12:20 11:30 11:45 11:53 12:03 12:08 12:15 12:27 12:35 12:50 12:30 12:45 12:53 1:03 1:08 1:15 1:27 1:35 1:50 1:00 1:15 1:23 1:33 1:38 1:45 1:57 2:05 2:20 2:00 2:15 2:23 2:33 2:38 2:45 2:57 3:05 3:20 G 2:30 2:45 2:53 3:03 3:08 3:15 3:27 3:35 3:50 3:00 3:15 3:23 3:33 3:38 3:45 3:57 4:05 4:20 4:00 4:15 4:23 4:33 4:38 4:45 4:57 5:05 5:20 4:30 4:45 4:53 5:03 5:08 5:15 5:27 5:35 5:50 5:00 5:15 5:23 5:33 5:38 5:45 5:57 6:05 6:20 5:30 5:45 5:53 6:03 6:08 6:15 6:27 6:35 6:50 6:00 6:15 6:23 6:33 6:38 6:45 6:57 7:05 7:20 6:30 6:45 6:53 7:03 7:08 7:15 7:27 7:35 7:50 G 7:00 7:15 7:23 7:33 7:38 7:45 7:57 8:05 8:20 G 7:30 7:45 7:53 8:03 8:08 8:15 8:27 8:35 8:50 G 45

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51 Route 78 Schedule Proposed for Implementation on August 19, 2013 VALLEJO/BENICIA/WALNUT CREEK BART Southbound Northbound Route 78 Weekday Military/First Military/First Vallejo (City Park) Pleasant Hill Walnut Walnut (City Park) Vallejo Transit Center Benicia BART Creek BART Creek BART Benicia Transit Center 6:00 6:18 6:40 6:50 6:55 7:15 7:30 6:20 6:38 7:00 7:10 7:15 7:35 7:50 6:40 6:58 7:20 7:30 7:35 7:55 8:10 G 7:00 7:18 7:40 7:50 7:55 8:15 8:30 G 7:40 7:58 8:20 8:30 8:35 8:55 9:10 8:00 8:18 8:40 8:50 9:00 9:20 9:35 G 9:20 9:38 10:00 10:10 10:15 10:35 10:50 10:55 11:09 11:27 11:37 11:42 12:02 12:17 12:25 12:39 12:57 1:07 1:12 1:32 1:52 2:15 2:29 2:47 2:55 3:04 3:29 3:59 4:15 4:29 4:47 4:55 5:04 5:29 5:59 4:45 4:59 5:17 5:25 5:30 5:55 6:25 G 5:15 5:29 5:47 5:55 6:00 6:25 6:55 6:10 6:24 6:42 6:50 6:55 7:20 7:50 G 7:10 7:24 7:42 7:50 7:55 8:20 8:35 G 47

52 VALLEJO/BENICIA/WALNUT CREEK BART Route 78 Saturday Southbound Northbound Military/First Military/First Vallejo (City Park) Pleasant Hill Walnut Walnut (City Park) Vallejo Transit Center Benicia BART Creek BART Creek BART Benicia Transit Center 6:35 6:51 7:11 7:19 7:32 7:52 8:10 8:35 8:51 9:11 9:19 9:32 9:52 10:10 10:35 10:51 11:11 11:19 11:32 11:52 12:10 12:35 12:51 1:11 1:19 1:32 1:52 2:10 2:35 2:51 3:11 3:19 3:32 3:52 4:10 4:35 4:51 5:11 5:19 5:32 5:52 6:10 6:35 6:51 7:11 7:19 7:32 7:52 8:10 8:30 8:46 9:06 9:14 9:35 9:55 10:13 G 48

53 ATTACHMENT J Agenda Item 8 miles km

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55 AGENDA ITEM 9 PAC MEETING DATE: JULY 23, 2013 Solano County Transit TO: PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTER: GARY ALBRIGHT, PROGRAM ANALYST SUBJECT: SOLTRANS FEDERAL TITLE VI PROGRAM ACTION: INFORMATIONAL ISSUE: The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently required that transit agencies submit updated Title VI Programs to comply with new requirements released in October To comply fully with these new requirements, the Board of Directors formally approved SolTrans updated Title VI Program at the June 27, 2013 meeting. DISCUSSION: In compliance with new Title VI requirements and guidelines that were issued in FTA Circular B on October 1, 2012, and as a condition of continued eligibility to receive FTA grant funding, an updated version of SolTrans Title VI Program was recently submitted and approved by a letter of concurrence from the FTA Office of Civil Rights. SolTrans updated its Title VI Program, to ensure that no person within the SolTrans service area shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under its services and programs. This program contains our policy statement assuring SolTrans compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title VI Complaint Procedures. New elements to the Program include a Public Participation Plan, Language Assistance Plan and tables depicting the racial breakdown of the board appointees and committee members, as well as tables which analyze the racial and language composition of the communities served by SolTrans. SolTrans is meeting its regulatory requirements by updating its Title VI Program to reflect these new requirements and guidelines. Moreover, through its Title VI Program, SolTrans is committed to ongoing efforts to: Ensure that the level and quality of transportation service is provided without regard to race, color, or national origin. Identify and address, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effects, including social and economic effects of programs and activities on minority populations and low-income populations. Promote full and fair participation of all affected populations in transportation decisionmaking. Prevent the denial, reduction, or delay in benefits related to programs and activities that benefit minority populations or low-income populations. 51

56 Ensure meaningful access to programs and activities by persons with limited English proficiency. SolTrans Title VI Program will remain in effect during the current triennial cycle that continues until April 1, 2016, and will be subject to ongoing review and revisions as service changes occur. Staff will also need to update the program should new information (i.e. census data, demographic changes, gentrification, etc.), which could affect the inclusiveness of SolTrans policies, services and programs, be revealed over time. FISCAL IMPACT: Non-compliance with FTA-mandated Title VI Program requirements could result in SolTrans being denied access to federal funding through the FTA. Given that FTA grant funds finance over 30% of the agency s annual operating budget, the Board of Directors recent approval of SolTrans Title VI Program will allow the agency to maintain the ability to operate the transit system and deliver needed services for the community. RECOMMENDATION: Informational. Attachments: A. SolTrans Board Approved Title VI Program (to be provided to the PAC under separate cover; copies may also be requested by contacting the Board Clerk: ) 52

57 AGENDA ITEM 10 PAC MEETING DATE: JULY 23, 2013 Solano County Transit TO: PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTER: GARY ALBRIGHT, PROGRAM ANALYST SUBJECT: SYSTEM PERFORMANCE REPORT ACTION: INFORMATIONAL ISSUE: SolTrans is required to track and report performance data on its transit system to federal and state funding agencies in order to maintain eligibility for grant funds, which finance 70-80% of the SolTrans operating budget. DISCUSSION: SolTrans, as required by granting agencies such as the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), tracks unlinked ridership on its fixed route system as a measure of system productivity. Farebox Recovery is also a key performance statistic that is used by funding agencies to gauge cost efficiency. As a result, ridership and farebox recovery reports for the local and intercity fixed routes are included as attachments. As shown on the year-to-date Fixed-Route Farebox Recovery Ratio Report, the system trend has continually improved. The Fixed-Route farebox ratio through May 2013 YTD was 38.1%. Local Ridership has continued to grow and May was the highest month of the year at 63,393 passenger trips. In May, Intercity Ridership was just slightly below the 56,500 average monthly trips. Combined, May was the second highest ridership month in the system at 118,657 passenger trips and nearly 1.2 million total passenger trips this year. Included in this report for the first time is the depiction of ridership by fare category. The number of passengers utilizing passes, instead of paying cash at the farebox, constitutes over 61% of the ridership on the local fixed route system, and on the intercity fixed route system, pass holders make-up over 45% of the ridership. The use of passes typically results in increased operational efficiency (less time spent holding the bus while passengers insert cash at the farebox), increased ridership due to the ability to take unlimited rides, and increased customer satisfaction due to ease of use. FISCAL IMPACT: This is an informational item with no fiscal impact. 53

58 RECOMMENDATION: Informational. Attachment: A. System Performance Report 54

59 SYSTEM PERFORMANCE REPORT Presented to: The Solano County Transit Public Advisory Committee on July 23, 2013 By: Gary Albright 55 1

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67 Ridership by Category May

68 Ridership by Category May

69 Performance Measures and Standards YTD 65 11

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71 67 13

72 Thank you! 68 14

73 AGENDA ITEM 11 PAC MEETING DATE: JULY 23, 2013 Solano County Transit TO: PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTER: WARD STEWART, PROGRAM ANALYST SUBJECT: SOLTRANS PUBLIC OUTREACH UPDATE ACTION: INFORMATIONAL ISSUE: SolTrans focus is to identify public outreach programs and activities that are valued by the community, and result in strong, mutually beneficial partnerships. DISCUSSION: Since the last PAC meeting, staff has participated in several events as follows: Staff hosted an informational booth at the Benicia Certified Farmer s Market on May 23 rd Staff hosted an informational booth for VCUSD 8 th Graders at the Active Career and Life Expo on May 24 th SolTrans and National Express staff hosted an informational booth at the Pista Sa Nayon Philippine cultural event at the Vallejo Waterfront on June 1 st Staff hosted an informational booth at the Vallejo Farmer s Market on Saturday, June 8 th Staff hosted Open House events to discuss the new ADA Paratransit Eligibility Process June 10 th at the Vallejo Transit Center and June 11 th at the Benicia Library SolTrans and National Express staff hosted an informational booth at the Juneteenth celebration at Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Vallejo on June 15 th SolTrans had a decorated bus in the Benicia Torchlight Parade July 3 rd SolTrans had a decorated bus in the Vallejo July 4 th Parade SolTrans hosted a drawing to win free monthly passes for attendees at the Pista Sa Nayon and Juneteenth events (5 total passes per event). Participants completed an informational survey about their ridership needs and patterns. Free Day Passes were also provided to youth who visited the booths in an effort to promote this fare medium that can now be purchased on-board buses. We have received favorable comments from the public regarding our involvement in these various community events, as well as feedback on the transit system and where riders would like to see potential service expansion. Photos from the outreach events are included in Attachment A. 69

74 FISCAL IMPACT: The cost of promotional materials and community outreach is within the FY and FY Budget and funded with State transit grants. Limited-time reduced fare promotions do not impose a significant fiscal impact on SolTrans due to the historical increase in ridership during fare promotions. RECOMMENDATION: Informational. Attachments: A. Photos from Outreach Events 70

75 71 ATTACHMENT A Agenda Item 11

76 72