Title
Resolution for a Commuter Assistance Program/Ride Share Grant to Maintain a Van Pool Program (B)
This is a request for the City Commission to adopt a resolution to allow the Regional Transit System (RTS) to continue the existing Van Pool Program that is operating in the Tri-County region around Gainesville.
Explanation
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has requested that RTS continue to serve as a pass through for the funding to allow the van pool program to operate. There are fourteen (14) vans currently operating in the area bringing workers into Gainesville to the VA Hospital and Shands Medical center. The vans currently originate in Lake City, Ocala, Jacksonville and Putman County. State funds are available through FDOT to subsidize the current van pool program with Enterprise Leasing Company of Florida, LLC. The City will not be responsible for any portion of the day to day operations, management of the program, or vehicles associated with the van pool program. FDOT has assured RTS that there will only be very minimal staff time required to manage this grant program.
RTS is requesting the City Commission adopt a resolution thereby allowing RTS to continue the oversight of the current program and provide the opportunity to develop additional van pool opportunities to other interested citizens.
Strategic Connection: Goal 2: Sustainable Community by supporting environmentally friendly programs such as the FDOT van pool program that saves natural resources and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Fiscal Note
The FDOT grant will fully fund this project. The administrative cost of RTS staff to oversee and monitor this project on behalf of FDOT is nominal.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) adopt the Resolution for a Commuter Assistance Program/Ride Share Grant to Maintain a Van Pool Program; and 2) authorize the Interim City Manager or designee to execute the related documents with FDOT, subject to approval by the Interim City Attorney as to form and legality.