Title
Resolution for Joint Participation Agreement (JPA) - Service Development Grant Funds for Regional Transit System (RTS) for Routes 33 and 800 (B)
This item is a request for adoption of a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute Joint Participation Agreements between the City of Gainesville and the Florida Department of Transportation to receive Service Development Grant Funds for the operation of Route 33 and Route 800.
Explanation
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) allocates service development funds to transit agencies each year. The allocations are given at FDOT discretion on a competitive basis for agency projects that meet FDOT Service Development Grant (SDG) criteria.
In the last several years, new major developments have occurred in the west side of Gainesville such as Butler Plaza and Celebration Pointe. Fixed Route 33 is a new route that began operating August 14, 2017. It connects a number of transit-dependent populations (students, seniors, low income individuals) with these major developments and the University of Florida (UF). The new route operates Monday to Friday from approximately 7:00 AM to 2:00 AM, and has a 15-minute frequency. Based on observed ridership for similar service, RTS expects this service will average over 20 passengers per hour. RTS and FDOT will each provide $407,371 for a total of $814,742 per terms of the JPA. Santa Fe College Student Transportation Fee provides the 50% local match funds for this project.
One of RTS’s main objectives is to improve transit alternatives and expand service outside City limits. Fixed Route 800 is a new route that will begin service in spring 2018. The fixed route offers the first “park and ride” (PNR) services during peak hours from the SW area of Gainesville to residents including workers, students, faculty and staff to UF. Service will include 30-40 minute frequency during weekdays from approximately 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, with trips in mornings and afternoons. Based on observed ridership for similar type of service, RTS anticipates this service will average over 15 passengers per hour. RTS and FDOT will each provide $69,746 (50/50 match) for a total of $139,492 per terms of the JPA.
FDOT requires the governing board of each public transit system to adopt a resolution authorizing the acceptance of these funds.
Fiscal Note
Matching funds for each JPA and SJPA are identified in the RTS operating budget for FY18 as noted above.
Recommendation
The City Commission adopt the Resolution.