Title
Resolution authorizing grant applications to the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Florida Department of Transportation and approval of staff positions for expanded bus services (B)
This item involves an authorization to apply for transportation funding and approval of the addition of nine (9) new positions and an increase of $486,014 in the operating budget to operate new and enhanced service (including Sunday Service) negotiated with the University of Florida and funded jointly by the University of Florida and the Florida Department of Transportation. The new service will be effective August 21, 2006.
Explanation
RTS and the University of Florida (UF) currently have an Interlocal Agreement to provide unlimited access to the transit system. The UF 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 UF Transportation Fee Committee agreed to raise the student fee to pay for current and additional services. In order to provide these services, additional staff is required.
The enhanced service consists of Sunday Service and additional hours of service on City routes 12, 13, 20, and 35 on weekdays. Sunday Service includes nine (9) City routes with a one-hour frequency from 10:00am to 5:00pm and additional hours of service to existing campus route 126.
A total of seven (7) new transit operator positions, one (1) mechanic I, and one (1) vehicle service attendant 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
The projected cost of providing this service is approximately $486,014. The revenues generated through the Transportation Fee are projected to cover the additional budget expenses. Florida Department of Transportation will provide 50% fun...
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