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PTAC Agenda 01/21/2020 Public Transit Advisory Committee Collier County Government Administration- Building F 3331 Tamiami Trail East - Collier County Museum, Lecture Hall room - January 21, 2020 3:00 p.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes a. December 17, 2019 Minutes 5. Committee Action a. TDP Technical Working Group Designee 6. Reports and Presentations a. Micro-transit b. FY20 Transit Budget 7. Member Comments 8. Public Comments 9. Next Meeting Date – January 21st, 2019 (Location Change) 10. Adjournment Two or more members of the Board of County Commissioners may be present and may participate at the meeting. The subject matter of this meeting may be an item for discussion and action at a future BCC meeting. Collier Area Transit operates in compliance with Federal Transit Administration, (FTA) program requirements and ensures that transit services are made available and equitably distributed, and provides equal AGENDA access and mobility to any person without regard to race, color, or national origin, disability, gender or age. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; FTA Circular 4702.1A, "Title VI and Title VI Dependent Guidelines for Federal Transit Administration Recipients. Anyone who required an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or other reasonable accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, should contact the Collier County Facilities Management Department located at 3335 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, Florida 34112 or 239-252-8380 as soon as possible, but no later than 48 hours before the scheduled event. Such reasonable accommodations will be provided at no cost to the individual. MINUTES OF THE PUBLIC TRANSIT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING December 17, 2019 LET IT BE REMEMBERED, the Public Transit Advisory Committee in and for the County of Collier, having conducted business herein, met on this date at 3:00 P.M. in REGULAR SESSION at Administrative Building “F”, Third Floor, Collier County Government Complex Naples, Florida with the following members present: ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman: Mr. John DiMarco Vice-Chairman: Mr. Arthur Dobberstein Mr. James Caton Mr. Harold Weeks MEMBERS ABSENT: Ms. Sonja Lee Samek - Excused ALSO PRESENT: Ms. Michelle Arnold, Director, Public Transit and Neighborhood Enhancement Mr. Omar DeLeon, Public Transit Manager, Public Transit and Neighborhood Enhancement Mr. Braian Morales, General Manager, MV Transportation, Inc. Ms. Elena Ortiz-Rosado, Events, Sales, and Marketing Coordinator, Public Transit and Neighborhood Enhancement Page 1 I. Call to Order Mr. DiMarco called the meeting to order at 3:00 P.M. II. Roll Call Roll call was taken, and a quorum established. III. Approval of Agenda Mr. Weeks entered a motion to approve the December 17, 2019 meeting agenda. Mr. Dobberstein seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried. IV. Approval of Minutes a. October 15, 2019 Mr. Dobberstein entered a motion to approve the October 15, 2019 meeting minutes. Mr. Caton seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried. V. Committee Action a. New membership for the PTAC ES – Mr. James Bennett Mr. James Bennett addressed the Transit Advisory Committee for introduction, presentation of credentials, and reasons for interest in becoming a member of the Transit Advisory Committee. Mr. Bennett has been a resident of Collier County for 32 years. He has been employed by Parker Aerospace, a division of Parker Hannifin, Corporation for 26 years, working as a Quality Engineer for the last 16 years. Mr. Bennett is also a member of the Southwest Florida American Society for Quality, Chapter 1530, serving as Historian and Membership Chair. Mr. Bennett expressed an interest in becoming involved within the community and specifically, County Government. Mr. Bennett noted that his background in engineering, Quality, and leadership roles would facilitate active contribution to the Committee. Mr. Bennett stated flexibility within his schedule and the ability to reliably attend the PTAC meetings once a month. Mr. Weeks entered a motion to endorse the application submitted by Mr. James Bennett for membership of the Public Transit Advisory Committee. Mr. Caton seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried. VI. Reports and Presentations a. Mobile Application Mr. DeLeon stated that a new mobile application will be implemented, which will offer passengers an alternative payment platform and the ability to pay with a credit card via their smartphone. The vendor for this initiative, Masabi, will provide it’s Justride Fare Payment Platform for use by Collier Area Transit for both fixed route buses and Paratransit service for Collier County. Masabi is a London based technology company that develops and markets mobile ticketing services for public transport companies. The Justride Platform consists of several components; Justride Retail enables agencies to virtualize the ticketing infrastructure, allowing riders to manage their accounts and to purchase tickets through the app, the web and existing retail stores. Page 2 The Rider App will be customized to CAT guidelines, multi-lingual and ADA compliant, with audible texts made available via the smartphone accessibility mode. Mobile validation will be verified via onboard validation units. Back office administrative and customer service functions will be supported through the Justride Hub, including ridership numbers for individuals utilizing the mobile app program. Security features include a dynamic QR Code to prevent screen shots, as well as a time bar to prevent screen recording. Drivers will have the ability to discern that the rider is in possession of a valid, active pass. Riders who establish an online account will have the ability to store their payment information, access the account from a new or upgraded device, as well as move the pass from one device to another, with a 3-device limit per account for added security. Mr. Dobberstein inquired if the new mobile ticketing program will enhance the ability to approach larger employers to subsidize their employee’s tickets. Mr. DeLeon noted the possibility for proprietary access to an employer’s account so that employees may purchase passes at a reduced corporate fare, and similarly for veteran’s, students, the disabled, etc. Mr. Caton inquired as to what percentage of ridership is forecasted to utilize the mobile program. Mr. DeLeon stated that surveys taken during the last Fare Study indicated that mobile ticketing was an amenity which riders were requesting. Mr. Caton inquired as to whether a bank account/debit card was necessary in order to load the online wallet, or if the account could be loaded with cash paid at a participating partner retail location. Mr. DeLeon noted that some retail outlets are currently under consideration to offer this service for “un-banked” riders. Further, pre-paid visa cards could be used to load into the mobile wallet. The web portal may also be utilized for riders without a smartphone, allowing a single-ride pass to be printed out, utilizing a credit card. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to the funding source for this program; specialized grants, local funds, etc. Mr. DeLeon clarified that two separate grants were being utilized for implementation of the project; a Congestion Management Grant and an FDOT Service Development Grant. Mr. Caton inquired as to whether a fixed fee will be paid to the contractor, regardless of the number of users, or if the vendor fee will be incentivized. Mr. DeLeon stated that the vendor will be paid a fixed fee. Mr. DiMarco inquired if there was an anticipated increase in younger ridership with the mobile app technology. Mr. DeLeon stated that the younger demographic will be targeted via marketing initiatives. Ms. Arnold pointed out that in addition to being able to purchase passes, the mobile app will also be linked to Collier Transit routes and trip planning. Mr. Caton inquired whether other city services were being considered to utilize the program, such as parking garages. Mr. DeLeon stated that no plans are presently under consideration for integration with other city services. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to whether this new program would be promoted to callers via the Collier 311 program. Mr. DeLeon noted cross-promotion will be done between Transit and Collier 311, with a link available on the Transit webpage. Mr. Dobberstein suggested decals promoting CAT services be utilized for community awareness. Page 3 Mr. DeLeon confirmed that bus stickers promoting the Transit website, social media, and eventually, free Wi-Fi are under consideration. Mr. Caton inquired as to whether the free Wi-Fi service will part of this project. Mr. DeLeon confirmed that public Wi-Fi will be contracted through the Masabi program and a part of the onboard technology, providing data for the devices used onboard, as well as providing public Wi-Fi. Mr. Caton inquired whether Wi-Fi was included in the long-term contract or whether Transit had the opportunity to discontinue offering Wi-Fi at their discretion. Mr. DeLeon confirmed that this change will be allowable; for instance, reducing data if necessary. However, the new onboard devices will also mitigate the discontinuation by cellular companies of no longer supporting 3G technology, which currently exists on CAT buses, negating the need to upgrade individual cellular modems. The more robust onboard router will manage multiple devices, providing the network to those devices. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to whether the vendor has adequate cybersecurity measures in place in order to circumvent potential hacking attacks. Mr. DeLeon confirmed that cybersecurity measures and cyber insurance are in place and included within the vendor agreement. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to whether the technology would still work without cell service. Mr. DeLeon confirmed that measures were in place for the program to work offline, with the ability to activate and use the pass, then reconciling the information when cell service becomes available. Mr. Caton suggested that onboard Wi- Fi automatically register with users, without having to go through several steps to connect, which would streamline the onboarding process. Mr. Caton inquired as to whether the program will accept a foreign credit card. Staff will provide an answer to this question at a subsequent meeting. Mr. Caton noted the opportunity to encourage users to navigate the Transit app in order to access free Wi-Fi. Mr. Caton inquired if there were associated transaction fees with using mobile app purchases. Mr. DeLeon noted there were no additional transaction fees, simply the cost of the fare. The program is currently at the user acceptance testing phase, with Transit Staff testing the program at all stages, both with Apple and Android operating systems, with a public pilot program planned for January/February 2020, and full implementation planned for summer 2020. b. Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Triennial Review In October 2019, Collier Area Transit underwent a triannual audit by the FTA, which reviews and evaluates the performance of a grant recipient in carrying out the recipient’s program, specifically with reference to compliance with statutory and administrative requirements. This process included a pre-review assessment, desk review and review scoping meeting with the FTA regional office, as well as a site visit. CAT facilities were toured in overview of activities related to FTA funded projects. The review assessed compliance by Collier Area Transit in 21 areas, concentrating on procedures and practices employed during the past three years. At the culmination of the extensive two- day review, no deficiencies were found with FTA requirements in any areas, yielding a perfect review. This news will be shared with the Board of County Commissioners, as well as mentioned in a County newsletter. Page 4 Mr. Caton inquired about possible penalties associated with identified issues. Ms. Arnold noted that all findings are given corrective action to be taken within a specified timeframe. Significant findings could result in the loss of grant funding or the return of grant funds. c. 5310, 5311, 5339 Grant Applications The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) requests the submittal of applications for grant funded projects each year. 5310 grant funds are currently being requested for the purchase of six replacement vehicles, as well as six radios and tablets for the vehicles in order to provide transportation services to the elderly and disabled residents of Collier County. This grant includes an 80% Federal share, with a 10% State share and a 10% local share. Cost savings on vehicle purchases are available via FDOT contracted vendors. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to what types of vehicles are under consideration; replacement with the same or a variety of sizes and brands. Mr. DeLeon stated that the same types of vehicles were being purchased, however noted buying some gas engine vehicles in view of the limited availability of diesel engine vehicles offered by the contracted vendors within the “Buy American” proviso. The “life expectancy” for use of the vehicles is 7 years, with stipulation within the grant to utilize the vehicles to full established life expectancy. 5311 grant funding is currently being requested for operating expenses associated with providing transportation services to residents in rural communities in Collier County. This grant includes a 50% Federal share and a 50% local share requirement. 5339 grant funding is currently being requested to assist with the construction of a “superstop” in the Immokalee area. This capital grant includes an 80% Federal share, with a 20% State share. No local share is required. These funds will be used to supplement capital grant funds awarded through the Federal TIGER Grant Program for the same facility. The superstop will be located on county owned property on North First Street in Immokalee, where the Health Department is located. The Health Department parking lot is currently being utilized as a transfer location, with only one shelter available. d. Christmas Service Feedback solicited from riders, Marco Island Marriott management, as well as a request by Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park has prompted the availability of limited transit service on Christmas day. This will be the first holiday service offered and ridership will be monitored to identify usage in order to determine the need for future holiday service. The holiday service will be promoted on Social Media, as well as radio advertised broadcasts. The radio ad which is being run on radio station B103.9 was shared with Advisory Committee members. VII. Member Comments Mr. Dobberstein requested clarification as to the County’s financial contribution in the previous year versus in the new fiscal year, which began October 1, 2019. Page 5 Ms. Arnold stated there had been an approximate $2M increase in funding from the County for the new fiscal year; however, will provide the exact number at the next Advisory Committee meeting. Mr. Dobberstein requested an update on the status of a potential partnership between Collier Public Transit and ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft. Mr. DeLeon noted that there has been no forward movement with a potential partnership, as other agencies had experienced issues with receiving ridership data from the ride sharing agencies due to reservations regarding access to proprietary information. Microtransit is another type of service currently under consideration, which is a transit operated ride sharing service, also offered by various contractors, and in coordination with software providers who assist transit agencies in providing this service. Mr. Dobberstein inquired whether an additional app would be necessary, in addition to the Masabi mobile app which is currently being tested. Mr. DeLeon noted that Masabi does integrate with other software companies to provide the service. Ms. Arnold clarified that a microtransit service would be an integrated technology from a user standpoint, even if provided by different vendors. Mr. DiMarco inquired as to whether software improvements are planned for the Paratransit service. Mr. DeLeon noted that a punch list of items which require attention has been shared with the software vendor, which will provide enhancements to back-end algorithms for more efficient service. Mr. Weeks inquired as to whether there had been any consideration for the eventual use of electric buses. Mr. DeLeon noted conversations have been had regarding the use of electric buses as shuttles, in response to a request by the Bayshore Gateway Triangle CRA to assist in alleviating parking issues with their food truck park. Mr. DeLeon stated that there are special grants available for the purchase of electric buses, which do require a match contribution. Electric buses come with a high cost per unit, as well as an investment in infrastructure to support them. Coordination must also be done with the local utility company to charge buses on the appropriate grid. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to whether vehicles which operate on compressed natural gas are available for purchase via grant funding. Mr. DeLeon will research and provide an answer at a subsequent meeting. Mr. Dobberstein noted the balance which must be maintained between providing innovations in equipment and continuing to provide excellent operational service. Mr. DiMarco inquired whether ticket kiosks could be placed at multiple locations, such as at the Government Center. Mr. DeLeon stated that this option has been investigated with various vendors, noting freestanding kiosks to be costly, as well as bearing high maintenance costs. Page 6 VIII. Public Comments +Mr. James Bennett inquired as to whether a clean audit resulted in additional certification. Ms. Arnold stated that no additional certification is awarded as a result of a clean audit. +Mr. Bennett further inquired as to whether the potential existed for CAT involvement in special events held at Tiburon. Ms. Arnold noted that Federal guidelines prohibit competition with private industry; however, if there were inadequate fleet to run the special event operation, a request for participation could be extended to Collier Public Transit, who could then charge for this service. IX. Next Meeting Date – January 21, 2019 (Location Change TBD) X. Adjournment There being no further business for the good of the County, the meeting was adjourned by order of the Chair. Public Transit Advisory Committee ___________________________________ John DiMarco, Chairman These minutes approved by the Committee on _________________as presented ___ or as amended___. Page 7 NOT a new idea, only the technology is. Private Cars (or Cabs) Public Transportation Microtransit CAT Increase Access to Public Transit Public Transit Coverage Potential New Riders Typically a High Level of Customer Experience Grant Funds: FTA, FDOT, CTD Fund Description 424 CATT Grant 425 CATT Match 428 Transportation Disadvantage Grant 429 Transportation Disadvantage Match FY2020 Budget FY2019 Budget Variance Variance % 15,590,988.29 18,520,307.02 (2,929,318.73) -15.82% Sources of Revenue CATT Grants (Fixed Routes)11,043,756.54 13,627,646.44 (2,583,889.90) -18.96% Contribution from 001 1,199,136.39 1,194,670.95 4,465.44 0.37% Transfer from 426/427 2,342,531.53 1,965,691.36 376,840.17 19.17% Transportation Disadvantaged Grants (Paratransit)927,831.22 1,659,730.61 (731,899.39) -44.10% Transportation Disadvantaged Match (Paratransit)60,261.13 40,256.66 20,004.47 49.69% CATT Match (Fixed Routes)17,471.48 31,011.00 (13,539.52) -43.66% Carryforward 1,300.00 (1,300.00) -100.00% Total Revenue 15,590,988.29 18,520,307.02 Expenses Categories CATT Grants (Fixed Routes)11,043,756.54 13,627,646.44 (2,583,889.90) -18.96% CATT Match (Fixed Routes)3,326,344.00 2,969,948.77 356,395.23 12.00% Transportation Disadvantaged Grants (Paratransit)927,831.22 1,659,730.61 (731,899.39) -44.10% Transportation Disadvantaged Match (Paratransit)190,856.53 251,088.06 (60,231.53) -23.99% Reserve for Contingency 102,200.00 11,893.14 90,306.86 759.32% Total Expenses 15,590,988.29 18,520,307.02 - - Operating Funds which are funded with 001 General Fund, Farebox Revenue, Carryforward and Investment Interest These 2 funds support the match requirement portion of the grants Fund Description 426 CATT Transit Enhancement 427 Transportation Disadvantage FY2020 Budget FY2019 Budget Variance Variance % 8,156,851.72 7,556,557.87 600,293.85 7.94% Sources of Revenue Contribution from 001 GF 4,724,900.00 4,685,800.00 39,100.00 0.83% Farebox and Miscellaneous Revenue 1,285,000.00 1,260,400.00 24,600.00 1.95% Contributions from 001 1,199,136.39 1,194,670.95 4,465.44 0.37% Transfer from 426/427 2,342,531.53 1,965,691.36 376,840.17 19.17% Investment Interest - 1,300.00 (1,300.00) -100.00% Total Revenue 9,551,567.92 9,107,862.31 Expenses Categories CATT Fixed Route Operating 2,211,460.94 1,920,297.71 291,163.23 15.16% Paratransit Operating 3,602,859.25 3,337,175.38 265,683.87 7.96% To Support Match Grant Requirements 2,342,531.53 1,965,691.36 376,840.17 19.17% Reserve for Projects/Contingencies - 333,393.42 (333,393.42) -100.00% Total Expenses 8,156,851.72 7,556,557.87 1,394,716.20 1,551,304.44