Title
Add New Positions to Regional Transit System for Enhanced Service to the University of Florida (B)
Explanation
The Regional Transit System (RTS) and the University of Florida (UF) currently have an Interlocal Agreement to provide unlimited access to the transit system. The University of Florida Transportation Fee Committee meets with RTS on an annual basis to evaluate the service and determine the need for enhanced services. During this year's meeting, the University of Florida Transportation Fee Committee agreed to raise the student fee to pay for current and additional services. In order to provide the additional services, additional staff is required.
The enhanced service consists of adding hours of service on City routes 9, 12, 20, 21, 35 and Campus route 125 Lakeside.
A total of two (2) new transit operator positions (1.5 FTE, 1 full time and 1 part time) plus operating expenses will be needed to provide enhanced service. The recruitment and training period for these new positions will require that the current RTS staff members operate the service until the new employees are available.
Fiscal Note
This service will increase RTS expenses by an estimated $106,728. The revenues generated through the Transportation Fee are projected to cover these additional budget expenses.
Recommendation
The City Commission approve the addition of the new positions and increases in the budget to operate this service, effective August 22, 2005.