Title
Resolution for 5310 Grant Application (B)
This item is a request for the City Commission to pass a Resolution to allow the Regional Transit System (RTS) to apply for a 5310 Grant to purchase paratransit trips, a paratransit van and wheelchair securement straps for the fixed route to provide access to transportation for persons with disabilities and ADA service to the disabled citizens of Gainesville.
Explanation
Federal funds are available through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to purchase paratransit trips, a paratransit van and wheelchair restraints.
FDOT has stated the Resolution must have specific verbiage, in the format approved by their attorney, and be adopted within 30 days of the application due date which is December 18, 2017. RTS is requesting that the City Commission adopt the Resolution allowing the application to go forward to apply for much needed paratransit trips, paratransit van, and wheelchair restraints to ensure safe transport to City of Gainesville citizens riding the fixed route trip.
Fiscal Note
The 5310 grant program is administered by FDOT through a competitive process. Funds are allocated in the RTS FY18 budget to provide the required matches. RTS anticipates requesting approximately $120,000 for the capital component of the 5310 grant application, and will use its capital replacement funds received from the RTS Paratransit Contract for the required 20% match. For the Demand Response trip service component of the 5310 grant application, RTS will request $50,000, and is required to provide a 50% match for the grant.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) adopt the Resolution; and 2) authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute related Joint Participation Agreement(s) with the Department of Transportation, subject to approval by the City Attorney as to form and legality.