Title
Vanpool Management and Service Provider (B)
Explanation
City of Gainesville, Regional Transit System with assistance from Purchasing, circulated RFP's to vanpool management service companies to provide vanpool leasing, insurance, maintenance and management of vanpool services. Services will be used to assist RTS in expanding commuter assistance programs to both employers and public service agencies. RTS commuter assistance van program will utilize a combination of City-owned and leased vans for this program.
RTS received one valid response from VPSI Commuter Vanpools. Staff reviewed this proposal and conducted a cost analysis to verify costs presented by VPSI were within comparable service area cost range. VPSI has been in business providing effective and professional delivery of vanpool management and services, nationwide for over twenty-two years. With a fleet of over 4,500 vans and twenty-seven customer service centers, they are uniquely qualified to provide vanpool services.
Funding sources will come from either employers or public agencies that will be contractually and financially responsible for van leasing through VPSI. Riders will comprise either workers hired by private employers where standard work-shift vanpool service is needed or; public agencies where multi-trips are required for transportation to job interviews, job training, social service agencies, medical appointments and childcare services. Additional funding will come from an FTA Grant. There will be no cost to the City.
Fiscal Note
No additional funding is required.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) approve the selection of VPSI Commuter Vanpools; 2) authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to initiate contract negotiations for vanpool management and services; and 3) authorize the City Manager, or his designee, upon successful contract negotiations, to execute a three year contract with option of two 1-year extensions, subject to approval by the City Attorney as to form and legality.