PTAC Agenda 10/20/2020
Public Transit Advisory Committee
Collier Area Transit
Virtual Zoom Meeting
8300 Radio Rd, Naples FL 34104
October 20, 2020
3:00 p.m.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Agenda
4. Approval of Minutes
a. September 15, 2020 Minutes
5. Committee Action
a. Final Park & Ride Study Report
b. Florida Developmentally Disadvantaged Council Grant Endorsement
6. Reports and Presentations
a. CAT Performance Measures
7. Member Comments
8. Public Comments
9. Next Meeting Date – November 17th, 2020 (Location TBD)
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
September 15, 2020
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 via hybrid video/teleconference/in-person at the
Collier Area Transit Office, 8300 Radio Road, Naples FL 34104, with the
following members present:
ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chairman: Mr. John DiMarco
Vice-Chairman: Mr. Arthur Dobberstein
Mr. James Bennett
Mr. Peter Berry
Mr. Devon Browne
Ms. Sonja Lee Samek
ABSENT:
Mr. James Caton
ALSO PRESENT:
Ms. Michelle Edwards-Arnold, Director, Public Transit and Neighborhood
Enhancement
Mr. Omar DeLeon, Public Transit Manager, Collier Area Transit
Mr. Zachary Karto, Senior Planner, Collier Area Transit
Ms. Tamarin Kirby, Planner, MV Transportation, Inc.
Ms. Josephine Medina, Planner, MV Transporttion, Inc.
Mr. Braian Morales, General Manager, MV Transportation, Inc.
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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. Dobberstein suggested consideration of discussion of the Adoption of Committee
By-laws (Item V. b.) prior to the Election of Chair and Vice Chair (Item V. a.), as
currently reflected on the agenda. The benefit was noted of having a clear understanding
of the mission and scope of the By-laws prior to consideration of the commitment of an
Officer position on the Advisory Committee. Ms. Arnold clarified that the By-laws draft
contains a large scope of information and would require discussion by the full
Committee, after which the draft may be revised or accepted. Following this clarification,
Mr. Dobberstein withdrew his suggestion for a change in the order of the agenda.
Mr. Berry entered a motion to approve the September 15, 2020 meeting agenda. Mr.
Bennett seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried.
IV. Approval of Minutes – July 21, 2020
Mr. Dobberstein noted a commitment in the July 21, 2020 minutes from Staff to
disseminate a list of the 12 previously identified, potential Park-n-Ride locations and
inquired if the list had been distributed. Mr. DeLeon confirmed having done so shortly
after the July meeting.
Mr. Berry entered a motion to approve the July 21, 2020 meeting minutes. Mr. Bennett
seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried.
V. Committee Action
a. Election of Chair and Vice Chairperson
In accordance with Ordinance No. 2016-07, the Members of the Public Transit Advisory
Committee (PTAC) shall elect a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson on an annual basis
from amongst its members, provided a quorum has been established.
Chair Nominations:
Mr. Bennett nominated Mr. DiMarco for the Chair position. There were no additional
nominations.
Mr. Bennett entered a motion to nominate Mr. DiMarco for the Chair position. Mr.
Berry seconded the motion. All members in attendance were in favor. The motion was
passed unanimously.
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Vice-Chairperson Nominations:
Mr. DiMarco nominated Mr. Dobberstein for the Vice-Chairperson position. There were
no additional nominations.
Mr. DiMarco entered a motion to nominate Mr. Dobberstein for the Vice-Chairperson
position. Mr. Bennett seconded the motion. All members in attendance were in favor.
The motion was passed unanimously.
b. Adoption of Committee By-Laws
Ordinance #2016-07, which converted the Public Transit Advisory Committee (PTAC)
from an Ad Hoc Committee to a permanent Advisory Board, was approved by the Collier
County Board of Commissioners (BCC). The ordinance identifies functions, powers, and
duties of the committee, as well as establishes the terms of the office and general rules of
procedures. The adoption of By-laws is a requirement of the Ordinance for the scope and
transaction of business. Staff has drafted a set of By-laws which is now presented to
PTAC for review and approval; effective following an affirmative vote of two-thirds of
the quorum, and with final approval by the BCC. Ms. Arnold noted the ability for
modifications to the draft document.
Mr. Dobberstein expressed concern that “mass transit services”, as stated in Article II,
Jurisdiction, was a limited definition of PTAC responsibilities based upon the broad
range of issues historically discussed and explored by PTAC. Ms. Arnold clarified that
“mass transit services” is taken directly from the governing Ordinance, and meant as a
general term for transportation and is non-limiting; an open-ended term to discuss all
components of transit service which may be part of a transit solution for Collier County.
The intent was to be all-encompassing, not limited to fixed route service, but also to
include other modes of transit, such as paratransit, vanpools, ride-sharing, etc. Mr.
Bennett suggested that this language allowed for broader discussion and exploration
related to the general movement of people and that specific itemization would be
limiting. Following discussion and clarification of intent, committee members agreed to
retain the language as written.
Article IV, Election of Officers, Section 1 of the draft states the “Nomination of Chair
and Vice-Chair shall be made from the floor at the annual organization meeting in
February of each year, and the election shall be held immediately thereafter.” Ms.
Arnold questioned if the assignment of an election date was useful or whether flexibility
should be considered, noting the possibility of a lack of a quorum, no meeting due to lack
of discussion topics, or even a pandemic. Mr. Bennett noted that commitment to a date
would be necessary if it were reflected in the By-laws. In view of the election of new
officers at the current meeting, Mr. Bennett questioned whether a re-election would be
necessary in February if the By-laws draft were approved as written. Ms. Arnold
clarified that a re-election would be necessary in February, to be held annually thereafter.
Mr. Berry suggested that the election for Chair and Vice-Chair be held in the first quarter
of each year, allowing for flexibility.
Page 3
Mr. Berry entered a motion to approve the Public Transit Advisory Committee By-Laws
draft, with modification of Article IV, Election of Officers, Section 1 to state,
“Nomination of Chair and Vice-Chair shall be made from the floor at the annual
organization meeting within the first quarter of each year, and the election shall be
held immediately thereafter.” Mr. Bennett seconded the motion. All members were in
favor. The motion was carried.
c. Review and Approve Final Draft Transit Development Plan (TDP) 2021-2030
The final draft Transit Development Plan (TDP) 2021-2030 was shared with PTAC
members. The TDP is the ten-year vision for transit, with a major update performed every
5 years, as well as yearly review and adjustments, as necessary. Creation of the plan is a
collaborative process between multiple agencies, entities, municipalities, and the public.
The TDP is comprised of various components, including public outreach, goals,
objectives and initiatives, recommended network changes, and the financial component
which reflects when the recommended changes might be accomplished. Public outreach
efforts included 1090 onboard surveys, multiple meetings, 268 online surveys, as well as
various stakeholder interviews.
Recommended network changes include the elimination of excessive loops, creating
more direct and bidirectional routing, adding and enhancing service along key corridors,
enhanced service to transit hubs at activity centers, saving service hours to improve
frequency, and tailored mobility on demand for various areas. The goal was to increase
transit coverage throughout the county, attempting to develop a better grid-like system
for main fixed route buses to move riders quickly and more efficiently. Localized needs
were studied, with frequency added to the 121 route with a loop in the a.m. and p.m.,
improved frequency on the 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 24 routes, and with service hours
expanded until 10:00 p.m. on some routes.
Mobility innovations included models and simulations of fixed routes in specific areas,
including Everglades City, which resulted in study of a partnership with Enterprise Rent-
A-Car to potentially offer vanpool service to this area. A trolley service was added to
Marco Island, allowing an additional transit option for both locals and tourists, as well as
adding a mobility on demand service encompassing the entire island. The 21 circulator
on the island was replaced by a smaller express route from the Naples Government
Center, stopping at Walmart on Collier Boulevard/US41, and traveling on to Marco
Island, providing quicker access from the western portion of the county to Marco Island.
Downtown Naples and the Bayshore area were studied for the use of quiet, ecofriendly
electric shuttles as an autonomous circulator, due to high tourist traffic and parking
challenges in these areas.
Challenges include:
+The proposal of non-traditional transit modes which are difficult to test and model for
demand, and which require alternative funding sources to implement.
Page 4
+Cross-jurisdictional cooperation which is necessary between Lee and Hendry Counties,
and various other municipalities, as well as promotion of the need to be proactive with
local businesses and leaders.
+Overcoming the hurdle of an auto-centric transportation network which is not transit
friendly.
+Incorporation of rapidly changing technology, such as the autonomous shuttle, into the
transit landscape.
Endorsement of the TDP draft was being sought of the Transit Advisory Committee,
prior to final presentation to the Board of County Commissioners at the October 13, 2020
meeting.
Mr. DiMarco inquired when the electric shuttle service might be implemented. Mr.
DeLeon noted that some concepts are conceptual and are included in the plan for
implementation once a funding source is identified; for instance, via grant application or
potential public/private partnership. For example, discussions are ongoing with the
Bayshore CRA regarding a potential partnership for an electric shuttle service in that
area. Forecast tables within the TDP document identify the potential timeframe for
implementation of projects, as well as estimated operating expenditures and capital costs
associated with the proposed project. Unfunded projects are not assigned within any
specific timeframe. It was clarified that conceptual projects would not be funded with
existing transit operating funds, either fixed route or paratransit. The TDP identifies a
ranking of service improvements; 40% by public feedback, as well as available funding
for each proposed improvement. It was noted that the public survey is included as part of
the TDP document. Mr. Browne suggested providing a general implementation
timeframe in response to public requests for service enhancements.
Mr. Dobberstein noted the omission within the TDP of other transportation services
provided in Collier County, including paratransit, for-hire school bus services, public
transit buses which provide a variety of tourist related transit (for instance, to football
games), and buses which travel to and from the airport in Lee County. Mr. DeLeon noted
this will be taken into consideration for incorporation within the TDP.
Mr. Bennett inquired whether an additional PTAC meeting would be held to discuss
further suggestions or changes made to the document prior to submission of the draft to
the BCC. Ms. Arnold clarified that the public comment period remains open and
substantive comments from the public and PTAC which would change the plan would be
included and provided to the BCC in October. The decision to reconvene to further
discuss the TDP draft would be at the discretion of PTAC members.
Mr. Bennett entered a motion to endorse the Transit Development Plan draft, with
Staff consideration of feedback received from the Public Transit Advisory Committee
and the Public during the open comment period. Mr. Browne seconded the motion. All
members were in favor. The motion was carried unanimously.
Page 5
VI. Reports and Presentations
a. Bus & Bus Facility Grant Award
Mr. DeLeon stated the Transit Division had received recent notification from the Federal
Transit Administration (FTA) of approval of the Bus & Bus Facility Grant Award
application. The Grant was requested for funding of a $9M project consisting of
renovation of the CAT maintenance facility located at 8300 Radio Road. Funding will
also be used for the purchase of two electric buses, four 30’ fixed route transit buses,
including security cameras, radios, Intelligent Transportation System, and electric
charging stations for two electric buses. It was clarified that the 5339 Bus & Bus Facility
Grant which was applied for is a competitive grant and is not in replacement of any other
funding sources.
b. COVID-19 Update
Committee members were updated on the ongoing activities being performed in response
to COVID-19, as well as an update on ridership on paratransit and fixed route service.
Buses have been wrapped with TDC recommended guidelines for public education. The
graphic design was recently recognized by the Center for Urban Transportation Research
at the University of South Florida, with publication in their newsletter. Enhancement of
the RideCAT app has been accomplished with the introduction of contactless fares, with
the ability to utilize a smartphone for handsfree routing and ticketing. With the
reintroduction of fares on August 2, 2020, rear boarding of the bus has been suspended,
with operator barriers installed for the protection of both operators and passengers with
front door entry. Drivers perform thorough sanitization of each bus after each loop, using
chemicals and wipes, and with a thorough cleaning performed of each bus when it is out
of service at the end of the day. Operators continue to be provided with personal
protective equipment and all riders are required to wear a mask.
Fixed route ridership was down by 60% in April 2020 compared to April 2019. Fixed
ridership is currently supporting approximately 40K riders per month, and the number of
buses has increased to support the higher ridership. Some routes, particularly from
Immokalee to Marco Island had remained full, particularly with rear boarding, due to less
available space on the bus. This issue has been alleviated with the reimplementation of
front door entry. A second bus was added to some loops for new express routes to
accommodate social distancing. Paratransit ridership was down 66% in April 2020
compared to April 2019, now averaging 4K riders monthly.
VII. Member Comments
+Mr. Dobberstein commented upon the quoted price received for the purchase of electric
buses, which was less expensive than diesel powered units. Ms. Arnold confirmed the
price quoted for electric buses is significantly lower than in the past, possibly due to a
more competitive market.
+Mr. Browne inquired as to any employee exposure to COVID-19. Mr. Morales noted
no utility personnel with virus positivity; however, there have been some drivers who
have tested positive.
Page 6
+Mr. Bennett inquired whether PTAC reading material could be received sooner than the
Friday before each meeting, to allow adequate time for review. Mr. DeLeon stated that
efforts will be made to forward documents sooner for member review prior to the next
meeting.
+Support was expressed by PTAC members of continued virtual meeting attendance,
which allows for time efficiency and easier attendance.
VIII. Public Comments
There were no comments from members of the public.
IX. Next Meeting Date – October 20, 2020 - (Location TBD)
X. Adjournment
There being no further business for the good of the County, the meeting was adjourned.
Public Transit Advisory Committee
___________________________________
John DiMarco, Chairman
These minutes approved by the Committee on _________________as presented ___ or as
amended___.
Page 7
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
September 2020
Collier MPO
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF i
Contents
1. Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... 1-1
2. Study Methodology ........................................................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1 Research ............................................................................................................................................................ 2-1
2.2 Site Identification ........................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3 Site Evaluation ................................................................................................................................................. 2-2
2.4 Public Participation ....................................................................................................................................... 2-3
3. Site Identification ........................................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1 Priority Sites from CUTR Report ............................................................................................................... 3-1
3.2 Commute Patterns ......................................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.2.1 Deficient Corridors ........................................................................................................................ 3-2
3.2.2 Regional Interconnectivity ......................................................................................................... 3-4
3.2.3 Demographics ................................................................................................................................. 3-4
3.2.4 Land Use ........................................................................................................................................... 3-6
3.3 Beach Facilities ................................................................................................................................................ 3-7
3.4 Candidate Locations Based on Stakeholder Input ............................................................................ 3-8
3.5 Proposed Park-and-Ride Sites .................................................................................................................. 3-9
4. Site Design ....................................................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1 Facility Types ................................................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2 Lot Size Estimation ........................................................................................................................................ 4-1
5. Site Evaluations ............................................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 Evaluation Ranking ........................................................................................................................................ 5-1
5.2 Priority Sites ..................................................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3 Alternate Sites ................................................................................................................................................. 5-3
5.3.1 Alternates for Public-Private Partnerships .......................................................................... 5-4
5.3.2 Alternates for Developed Lots ................................................................................................. 5-4
5.3.3 Phased Development................................................................................................................... 5-4
6. Cost Estimates ................................................................................................................................................. 6-1
7. Funding Sources ............................................................................................................................................. 7-1
7.1 Federal Funding .............................................................................................................................................. 7-1
7.2 State Funding .................................................................................................................................................. 7-2
7.3 Local Funding .................................................................................................................................................. 7-4
7.4 Alternative Funding Strategies ................................................................................................................. 7-4
8. Recommendations and Conclusions .......................................................................................................... 8-1
8.1 Best Practices ................................................................................................................................................... 8-1
8.2 Property Acquisition and Lease Agreements ...................................................................................... 8-1
8.3 Promotion of the Facilities ......................................................................................................................... 8-2
8.4 Park-and-Ride Handbook ........................................................................................................................... 8-2
9. References ........................................................................................................................................................ 9-1
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF ii
Appendices
Appendix A. Park-and-Ride Research Memorandum
Appendix B. Park-and-Ride Handbook
Appendix C. Public Involvement
Appendix D. Site Evaluation Results and Demographic Maps
Appendix E. Site Design and Cost Estimates
Tables
Table 3-1. 2005 Priority Locations............................................................................................................................ 3-2
Table 3-2. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations Serving Deficient Corridors ................................................... 3-3
Table 3-3. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations for Regional Interconnectivity .............................................. 3-4
Table 3-4. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations Based on Employee Commute Patterns ............................ 3-6
Table 3-5. Beach Parking Demand (2017–2019) ................................................................................................. 3-7
Table 3-6. Beach Capacity Total Turnarounds (2017–2019) ............................................................................. 3-8
Table 3-7. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations for Beach Access ...................................................................... 3-8
Table 3-8. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations Based on Stakeholder Input ................................................. 3-9
Table 4-1. Types of Park-and-Ride Facilities .......................................................................................................... 4-1
Table 5-1. Final Evaluation Rankings ....................................................................................................................... 5-2
Table 7-1. Federal Funding Sources ......................................................................................................................... 7-1
Table 7-2. State Funding Sources ............................................................................................................................. 7-3
Figures
Figure 1-1. Benefits of Using Park-and-Ride .......................................................................................................... 1-1
Figure 1-2. Florida Park-and-Ride Locations (2020) ........................................................................................... 1-2
Figure 2-1. Guide Sign from Main Arterial .............................................................................................................. 2-1
Figure 3-1. Priority Locations from 2005 ................................................................................................................ 3-1
Figure 3-2. Top Zip Codes for Home vs. Work Area ............................................................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-3. Collier County Employment and Residency ...................................................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-4. Final Proposed Site Locations ............................................................................................................ 3-10
Figure 3-5. Close Up of Final Proposed Site Locations ..................................................................................... 3-11
Figure 5-1. Recommended Priority Sites (Including Alternative Locations) .................................................. 5-3
Figure 7-1. Seed-to-Table Park-and-Ride lot ......................................................................................................... 7-4
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF iii
Acronyms and Abbreviations
AUIR Annual Update Inventory Report
B&A boarding and alighting
CAT Collier Area Transit
CDP Census-designated place
CUTR Center for Urban Transportation Research
FDOT Florida Department of Transportation
FTA Federal Transit Administration
FY fiscal year
LeeTran Lee County Transit
LOS level of service
LRTP Long Range Transportation Plan
MOD Mobility on Demand
MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization
MUTCD Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
PL priority location
PPP Public Participation Plan
ROW right-of-way
SIS Strategic Intermodal System
STP Surface Transportation Program
TDC Tourist Development Council
TDP Transit Development Plan
TIP Transportation Improvement Program
USF University of South Florida
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF 1-1
1. Introduction
As the population of Collier County (hereafter, “the County”) continues to increase, traffic congestion has
become a growing concern on the County’s arterial network. The County is considering development of
park-and-ride facilities to help alleviate some of the congestion, providing areas where commuters can
park and take public transit, carpool, or vanpool into more urban areas. Figure 1-1 illustrates the many
benefits to using park-and-ride facilities.
This approach is popular throughout the state as
evidenced by the numerous park-and-ride facilities in
urban and urban core areas within Florida, indicating
these facilities are primarily correlated around
interstates and highways (refer to Figure 1-2). Ideal
locations for park-and-ride lots would serve congested
roadways and target regional and local commuter trips,
such as work, shopping, the beach, or the airport, to
reduce the number of vehicles on those heavily
congested corridors.
In 2005, Collier County addressed park-and-ride
strategies by commissioning a study by the University of
South Florida (USF) Center for Urban Transportation
Research (CUTR) (USF 2005) that identified primary
transportation corridors, including major roads and the
fixed-route public transit networks provided by Collier Area Transit (CAT) and Lee County Transit
(LeeTran). The study developed a list of 32 possible sites that were evaluated and then further refined to
12 prioritized park-and-ride sites. Since that time, continuous population growth, commercial develop-
ment, and the expanded CAT system have changed the “existing conditions” and the study is now
outdated. Thus, an update is needed to reflect current and planned conditions.
This Park-and-Ride Study updates the analysis and recommendations from the 2005 CUTR Report by
confirming whether the park-and-ride locations previously identified are still suitable and by identifying
additional sites to address changing land use in the County, regional commuter and transit travel patterns,
and the CAT system. This Study was performed in conjunction with the ongoing Collier Metropolitan
Planning Organization (MPO) 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) update (Jacobs 2020) and
the CAT Transit Development Plan (TDP) to update the park-and-ride strategies and prioritized sites for
the County. The new proposed sites are designed to take advantage of existing infrastructure whenever
possible and use County-owned parcels where practical. This Study documents and prioritizes sites and
provides implementation strategies to successfully integrate additional park-and-ride locations into the
multimodal transportation system currently serving the County.
Park-and-ride lots provide options for commuters and other travelers who can benefit from carpooling or
who need reliable transit options in the County, including businesses, recreational facilities, or schools. In
addition to helping address the impacts of traffic congestion and parking constraints at some facilities,
park-and-ride lots offer transit service for individuals without personal transportation and who need viable
options to and from work or other activities. Locating potential lots near multimodal facilities, such as
transit, pathways, sidewalks, or bike lanes, provides access to alternative transportation modes for
travelers.
Figure 1-1. Benefits of Using Park-and-Ride
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF 1-2
Figure 1-2. Florida Park-and-Ride Locations (2020)
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF 1-3
Park-and-ride facilities serve as conveniences to commuters and may be promoted to reduce the demand
for limited traffic capacity during peak travel hours. To entice commuters to give up their cars for sub-
stantial portions of their daily trips, park-and-ride facilities must be conveniently located. This means
commuters must not have to drive far to the park-and-ride site. In addition, the site should not be in a
direction contrary to the commuters’ work or other destination. Park-and-ride facilities should be located
to capture the maximum portion of the common “trunk” trips of commuters. The major trunk of travel for
commuter trips in Collier and Lee Counties is I-75. Therefore, park-and-ride facilities should be provided
as close as possible to the interchanges.
There are several northbound/southbound and eastbound/westbound roadways that are also used for
major commuting patterns within the County. A common commuting pattern for residents travelling to
work is westbound in the morning and eastbound in the evening. Some of the major eastbound/
westbound arterials and major collectors include Immokalee Road, Vanderbilt Beach Road, Pine Ridge
Road, Golden Gate Parkway, and Golden Gate Boulevard. Some of the major arterials for northbound/
southbound trips in Collier County include US 41, Goodlette-Frank Road, Airport Road, Livingston Road,
Santa Barbara Boulevard, SR 29, and Collier Boulevard. Therefore, park-and-ride facilities serving work
patterns should be located as close as possible to these major roadways.
Promoting transit and personal mobility options are areas of growing interest in the County as the
population steadily increases and it becomes costly and impractical to add capacity to the local roadways
and intersections because of right-of-way (ROW) requirements, drainage, and environmental concerns.
The County has successfully implemented intercounty transit service options within the County limits and
continues to explore additional public transportation connections to link residents with nearby jobs,
services, and tourist destinations. An implementable, cost-effective, and well-vetted park-and-ride
strategy is an important component of an effective and wholistic transit system, helping to extend the
reach of the available transit services to attract new users and offer alternatives to commuters.
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF 2-1
2. Study Methodology
2.1 Research
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) State Park-and-Ride Guide (FDOT 2012) provides a
basis for planning, site selection, site evaluation, site size estimation, and funding options. In addition to
FDOT guidelines, the 2005 CUTR Report (USF 2005) was reviewed and comparable programs in Florida
and throughout the U.S were researched. The goal of the review was to identify strategies to increase local
demand and use and to identify the best practices that may be integrated into park-and-ride lots within
the County. The studies were also reviewed for conventional and innovative funding strategies for
developing, implementing, and maintaining park-and-ride lots and programs.
Strategies and best practices identified during the research were analyzed for their application to both
existing and planned lots within the County. Top recommendations for the County include:
• Enhance online resources, such as a webpage dedicated to the park-and-ride program detailing the
overall vision, benefits of its use, and identification of each site or lot with photos and descriptions of
each location.
• Install guide signs off main arterials, per Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices (MUTCD) (FHWA 2009), to advertise and direct users to the lots in
addition to the entrance of the lot (refer to Figure 2-1).
• Provide park-and-ride at transfer stations to serve a wide variety of commute
patterns. This could include a designated lot or shared-use parking at an
existing lot.
• Provide an additional sense of security by locating lots adjacent to the sheriff
facilities, or by installing lighting, video surveillance, and fencing with timed
gates.
• Offer direct shuttles and vanpooling to accommodate participants in
employment-based or destination-specific lots.
Another economical strategy is to lease parking spaces within private properties, such as shopping plazas
or churches. Leased spaces can include the condition that park-and-ride spaces are only available for
weekdays or weekends if serving both the lot’s demand and the targeted ridership. For example, if the
targeted ridership is employee commuters (weekdays) and the proposed location is to lease spaces from a
church (high demand on weekends), providing spaces only during weekdays could offer a more attractive
public-private partnership than without such an arrangement. Appendix A provides further details on the
research findings and recommendations.
2.2 Site Identification
To ensure a thorough list of potential sites, several criteria were analyzed to identify ideal sites for future
locations. Locations were predominantly proposed along existing and planned transit routes that have the
highest potential to serve as park-and-ride lots. Sites were identified first based on locations within the
County where informal park-and-ride already occurs.
Sites were evaluated to serve major employment, educational, and tourism destinations. Research
included the review of the TDP, LRTP, U.S. Census Bureau data, Land Development Regulations, land use
patterns, and cell phone (global positioning system directional and delay) travel data. The U.S. Census
Bureau data were used to identify employment figures and commute patterns. The Annual Update
Figure 2-1. Guide
Sign from Main
Arterial
Source: MUTCD
(FHWA 2009)
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF 2-2
Inventory Report (AUIR) was used to identify existing and projected congested corridors. Sites were also
identified based on stakeholder input. A similar analysis should be used for identifying any future lot
locations considered within the County.
The following factors provided the basis for selecting potential sites in the County:
• Location, dimensions, and ownership of potential site
• Existing ingress/egress and multimodal access to the site
• Safety and security, such as lighting and cameras
• Estimated costs to acquire or lease site
• Estimated operating costs
• Estimated costs to construct the park-and-ride lot
• Estimated transit/park-and-ride demand at site (that is, existing and latent demand for transit route
and bus stop)
2.3 Site Evaluation
To evaluate and prioritize potential sites, evaluation criteria using the FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide
(FDOT 2012) site selection evaluation methodology were developed and included scoring based on such
factors as location and economic feasibility. These criteria were then tailored to the needs of the County.
The ranking of the criteria helps identify which locations along existing and planned transit routes have
the highest potential as successful park-and-ride lots. The sites were analyzed and ranked based on the
following core conditions:
• Visibility - Is the site easy to find or close to a primary roadway?
• Location - Is the site close to key activity area (businesses, stores, retail)? Is the site near a pathway or
major roadway? Is the property available? Are property owners on developed land in favor of a lease
agreement?
• Access - Is there easy access in and out of the site? If traffic makes it consistently difficult to access the
facility, customers will be discouraged from using it.
• Transit Linkage - Does the site offer a broad range of route options? Potential near-term linkages
between CAT and LeeTran will also need to be addressed.
• Cost - Is it cost-effective to develop this site? A currently developed site would cost less as an initial
investment.
The ranking of prioritized sites entails both a qualitative and quantitative analysis. Sites must first pass the
initial screening for feasibility and effectiveness (qualitative). Feasible sites were then evaluated using the
evaluation criteria, which provided scoring to rank and prioritize the potential success of the site (quantita-
tive).
A team consisting of representatives from CAT, Collier MPO, and Jacobs jointly developed the evaluation
criteria. The project team assigned weighting to each question to tailor the assessment to County
conditions. The weightings reflect the locations’ viability for a park-and-ride as well as its anticipated level
of success. The weightings are designated as follows:
• 1 - Basic site requirement
• 2 - Desirable benefit for the site
• 3 - Significant benefit to the success of the site
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Site evaluation methodology was prepared to explain the objective and scoring options for each question
within the evaluation criteria. This Study uses the FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide evaluation criteria and
the site evaluation methodology, so the evaluation herein can be performed for any potential locations
under consideration by CAT. Refer to Appendix B for the methodology and evaluation forms developed as
part of this Study.
Note: A discrepancy exists within some site maps on the site evaluation forms. Revised routes are not
reflected on the site maps, as the GIS files were being updated by CAT. However, the latest route layouts
were incorporated into the scoring for question 2 of the Site Evaluation Forms. The CAT interactive map
was used to evaluate question 2 and the scoring of each site was based on the latest revised route layout
(for example, R121 and R28).
2.4 Public Participation
The Collier MPO developed a Public Participation Plan (PPP) to identify outreach activities, outline
methods that will be used to measure outreach effectiveness, and ensure that relevant activities align with
the Collier MPO’s guiding principles. The PPP outlines a strategy for leveraging existing outreach and
acquiring the necessary new data through the public involvement process. Consistent with the Collier MPO
PPP, a Park-and-Ride Study PPP was developed to reach all demographic groups including, but not limited
to, commuters, students, large employers, transportation disadvantaged, senior citizens, and the disabled
community (refer to Appendix C for the Park-and-Ride Study PPP).
For purposes of consistency and efficiency with the LRTP, the outreach efforts for this Park-and-Ride Study
mimic the LRTP, with some project-specific required adjustments to ensure swift committee and board
approval. However, because of stay-at-home orders resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, planned
public meetings were cancelled and were no longer feasible within the timeline of this Study. The Park-
and-Ride Study PPP was modified to accommodate the stay-at-home orders. However, the original Park-
and-Ride Study PPP is also provided in Appendix C to apply to any future public participation regarding
park-and-ride studies for the County.
The modified PPP used electronic forms of communication and included outreach via email and online
surveys. PowerPoint presentations were made available to organization representatives for discussion and
feedback regarding the organization’s needs and potential site locations. The PowerPoint presentations
were provided through the Microsoft Teams platform and in person (prior to the issuance of stay-at-home
orders) and included the following organizations:
• Collier MPO Board
• Technical Advisory Committee
• Citizen’s Advisory Committee
• Congestion Management Committee
• Collier County Parks & Recreation Division
• Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce
• Arthrex (large employer)
• Enterprise Rent-a-Car (vanpools for Collier County)
• Collier County Tourism Division
• LeeTran
The key stakeholder identified for each organization was provided links to the online survey to further
distribute to obtain feedback. Additional stakeholders within the Collier MPO’s adviser network and large area
employers within the County were identified and provided a handout describing the project with links to the
public survey, but none of the organizations requested a PowerPoint presentation. These organizations
included, but were not limited to, representatives of the disabled community, Walmart, Target, Publix, Naples
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Community Hospital, Bayshore and Immokalee Community Redevelopment Agency, the Restaurant and
Lodging Association, and the Chambers of Commerce for Greater Naples, Immokalee, Marco Island, and
Everglades City. Appendix C includes a copy of the distributed handout.
The online public survey was also promoted using several other platforms to enhance public participation
from participants outside demographic and employer organizations. The handout information and survey
links were posted on the MPO and CAT websites and on CAT social media. The MPO published the link and
project summary in their newsletter, which is distributed to the MPO’s entire adviser network. CAT emailed all
County employees the handout and survey links, and fliers with the survey links were posted in each CAT bus
to encourage ridership response. Refer to Appendix C for results of the public participation surveys.
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3. Site Identification
This section summarizes proposed sites reviewed as part of this Study. The site identification process
described within Section 2.2 should be reevaluated if conditions change in the County for any future lots
considered. It should be noted that proposed sites can serve multiple areas, patterns, and needs.
3.1 Priority Sites from CUTR Report
The 2005 CUTR Report identified 46 potential sites and recommended 12 sites as potential priority sites
(USF 2005). These 12 priority sites were evaluated and identified in Table 3-1 with the Site ID beginning
with “PL” (priority location). Because land development and the transportation network in the County has
experienced major growth since the 2005 study, the potential priority locations were reevaluated for
feasibility and likelihood of success, with some sites being relocated or removed as applicable. Refer to
Figure 3-1 for the relocated or removed priority sites within County jurisdiction.
Figure 3-1. Priority Locations from 2005
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Table 3-1. 2005 Priority Locations
Source: 2005 CUTR Report (USF 2005)
Proposed Location/
Description for Site
Park-and-
Ride Site
ID Notes
Walmart, exit 111 off I-75 PL-1 Proposed using existing spaces on the shared-use lot.
Heritage Bay PL-2 Northeast corner of Immokalee Rd. and Collier Blvd. Evaluated at
the new Government Services Center at Heritage Bay.
Immokalee Rd., intersection of CAT
Blue Route, Marco Express,
Immokalee Circulator, and future
LeeTran connections
PL-3 Evaluated at SL-3, approximately 200 feet south of the
intersection described (East Main St. and Immokalee Rd.).
USDA Center and Fairgrounds,
Immokalee Rd and 39th Ave. NE
PL-4 Refer to site name as Agricultural Center and Fairgrounds.
Proposed using existing spaces at the parking lot.
Vacant lot behind Wilson Blvd. gas
station
PL-5 Corner of Golden Gate Blvd. and Wilson Blvd. Relocated to SL-14
(Golden Gate & 1st Street NW) as County will acquire property.
Proposed location less than 0.15 miles away.
Vacant lot west of Elizabeth Ann
Seton Catholic Church and School
PL-6 Removed because there is an existing park-and-ride at the
Golden Gate Library approximately 0.5 miles away.
Coastland Mall PL-7 Southeast corner of Golden Gate Pkwy. and US 41. Proposed
using existing spaces on the shared-use lot.
Parkway Plaza Shopping Center PL-8 Golden Gate Pkwy./Coronado Pkwy. Removed because there is
an existing park-and-ride at the Golden Gate Library less than
0.15 miles away.
Freedom Square Shopping Center PL-9 Proposed using existing spaces; however, if new lot is developed,
excellent location to serve as a transfer station.
Naples Outlet Mall PL-10 Proposed using existing spaces on the shared-use lot.
Ave Maria University PL-11 Development Order indicates Ave Maria to promote transit.
Miromar Outlets PL-12 Removed because it is located in Estero, FL (not within the
County’s jurisdiction and outside study area).
3.2 Commute Patterns
Employment data and commute patterns were reviewed for major employers in the County. The
employment commute patterns were reviewed in conjunction with existing and planned deficient corridors
identified in the AUIR (Collier County 2019) and proposed developments in the County.
3.2.1 Deficient Corridors
Based on forecasted traffic volumes, roadways or segments that are not projected to achieve the adopted
minimum acceptable level of service (LOS E), as identified in the Growth Management Plan, are classified
as deficient. To address existing and projected deficiencies within the County, sites were targeted immedi-
ately upstream the direction of travel for the deficient segment. Sites were provided to address each
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deficient roadway as identified in the 2019 AUIR (refer to Table 3-2) with deficiencies projected to 2029.
Refer to Appendix D for a map of evaluation sites in relation to the deficient segments.
Table 3-2. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations Serving Deficient Corridors
Source: 2019 AUIR Update Deficiencies Report
Deficient Segment
Park-and-Ride
Site ID Movement Served
Old US 41 (US 41 to Lee County Line) and
Tamiami Trail E. (Immokalee Rd. to
Wiggins Pass Rd.)
SL-15; SL-1 Proposed sites serving each direction.
Immokalee Rd. (Goodlette-Frank Rd. to
Livingston Rd.)
PL-1; SL-15 Proposed sites serving each direction.
Immokalee Rd. (I-75 to Santa Barbara
Blvd. to Everglades Blvd. and Oil Well Rd.)
SL-5; SL-17 for
east side;
SL-16; PL-2
Proposed sites serving each direction.
Randall Blvd. (Immokalee Rd. to
Everglades Blvd.)
SL-5, PL-3,
PL-4, Pl-11
Proposed sites serving each direction.
Goodlette-Frank (Vanderbilt Beach Rd. to
Immokalee Rd.)
SL-15; SL-25 Proposed sites serving each direction.
Pine Ridge Rd. (Airport Rd. to I-75) SL-18, SL-24;
SL-7
Proposed sites serving each direction.
Golden Gate Pkwy. (Goodlette-Frank Rd.
to I-75)
SL-18; SL-8;
PL-8; PL-7
Proposed sites serving each direction.
Wilson Blvd. (Vanderbilt Beach Rd. to
Randall Blvd.)
SL-14, SL-5,
SL-17,
Also supported by the existing park-and-ride at the
Golden Gate Estates Library. Site to alleviate
congestion heading southbound in the morning
and northbound in the afternoon.
Collier Blvd. (Manatee Rd. to Mainsail Dr.) PL-9, PL-10,
SL-13
Existing park-and-ride at the Marco Island Library
serves commuters heading northbound in the
morning. Proposed sites to alleviate congestion
heading southbound in the morning and
northbound in the afternoon.
Tamiami Trail (Airport Rd. to Rattlesnake
Hammock Rd.)
SL-11, SL-20 Proposed sites serving each direction.
Collier Blvd. (Davis Blvd. to I-75) SL-21, PL-9,
PL-10, SL-13,
SL-8, SL-9
Surrounding sites serving each direction.
Pine Ridge Rd. (Shirley St. to I-75) SL-7, SL-18 Proposed sites serving each direction.
Golden Gate Pkwy. (Santa Barbara Blvd. to
Collier Blvd.)
SL-8, PL-6,
PL-2, SL-9
Surrounding sites serving each direction. Serving
vehicles going through this corridor (destination
not in corridor).
Tamiami Trail E. (Greenway Rd. to San
Marco Dr.)
PL9, PL-10,
SL-13, SL-23
Proposed sites serving each direction.
SR-82 (Lee County Line to SR 29) SL-3, SL-22 Proposed sites serving westbound in the morning
and eastbound in the evening.
Immokalee Rd (Collier Blvd. to Oil Well
Rd.)
PL-2, PL-4,
Sl-5, SL-17
Vanderbilt Beach Rd. extension expected to reduce
volumes. Proposed sites serving westbound in the
morning and eastbound in the evening.
N. 1st Street (New Market Rd to SR 29) SL-3, SL-22 Proposed sites serving each direction.
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3.2.2 Regional Interconnectivity
Sites were proposed to support regional interconnectivity within the state of Florida and intercity transit.
FDOT identifies the Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) highway corridors in Collier County as I-75, SR 29,
and SR 82 (FDOT 2019). These highways provide regional interconnectivity between cities and counties
within Florida. Additionally, there are state grant sources for projects that support regional travel along SIS
corridors. Park-and-ride sites were located as close as possible to interchanges and intersections along
these highways.
The TDP proposed a new CAT route to accommodate commuters traveling to Lehigh Acres. Sites were
proposed in Immokalee to serve the commute into Lee County from Lehigh Acres. Additionally, Lee
County is developing a new park-and-ride lot to serve the commute from Lehigh Acres to employment
areas. Table 3-3 lists proposed locations for regional interconnectivity.
Table 3-3. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations for Regional Interconnectivity
Proposed Location/Description
Park-and-Ride
Site ID Comments
Railhead SL-1
Located on County property adjacent to the railroad tracks
along Old US 41. Can also serve the Southwest Florida
International Airport.
Immokalee Health Department SL-3 Location is adjacent to SR 29.
Target (Immokalee Rd.) SL-16 Located adjacent to I-75 interchange to support regional
commuters from Lee County. PL-1 is the alternative to this
location.
Creekside Transfer Station SL-15 Currently the only transfer station connecting to LeeTran.
Provides interconnectivity to Lee County. Supports the
airport and Gulf Coast Mall.
Physicians Regional Hospital
(Pine Ridge Rd.)
SL-18 Adjacent to I-75 interchange. Can provide carpool
opportunities for commuters working outside the County.
Lehigh Acres SL-3 Servicing commuters heading into Lee County using the
TDP’s proposed Lehigh Acres route. Connection to
LeeTran should be explored with Lee County.
Old Everglades Chamber of
Commerce Lot
SL-23 Adjacent to SR 29 to service the City of Everglades with its
proposed vanpool service.
Golf Course/VA Hospital Lot SL-8 Adjacent to I-75 interchange for commuters heading
eastbound.
Sports Complex SL-9 Adjacent to I-75 interchange for commuters heading
eastbound.
Resource Recovery Park SL-19 Adjacent to I-75 interchange for commuters heading
eastbound.
3.2.3 Demographics
U.S. Census data was extracted from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Center for Economic Studies using data
collected from 2017. The U.S. Census data displayed correlations of employee commute patterns by
home and work areas through zip codes and places, which included cities, Census-designated places
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PPS0715201202SWF 3-5
(CDPs), etc. The analysis of the employee commute patterns displayed most Census tracks where workers
live had the highest density quadrants at:
• Golden Gate Estates region and northeast section of Collier County
• Between Immokalee Road and Vanderbilt Beach Road, east of Airport Pulling Road
• Between Vanderbilt Beach Road and north of Golden Gate Parkway, between Livingston Road and I-75
The home-to-work distance directional analysis resulted in approximately 49 percent of workers traveling
less than 10 miles, approximately 20 percent traveling between 10 to 24 miles, 7 percent traveling 25 to
50 miles, and 24 percent traveling greater than 50 miles. The longer commutes are likely for commuters
living in Immokalee and Marco Island and commuters traveling to these outskirt locations for
employment. The cities, CDPs, and places where workers live resulted in: 5.9 percent Golden Gate CDP,
4.1 percent City of Bonita Springs, 3.5 percent for Immokalee CDP, 3 percent at Lehigh Acres CDP,
2.7 percent City of Naples, 2.1 percent City of Marco Island, and 2 percent Cape Coral City, with the
remaining locations less than 2 percent.
Cities, CDPs, and places with the largest
employers are as follows: City of Naples
(13 percent), City of Marco Island
(3.7 percent), City of Bonita Springs
(2.8 percent), and Immokalee CDP
(2.6 percent), with the remainder less than
2 percent. The highest jobs per square mile
are along the west boundary and coastline
of Collier County, west of I-75, in Marco
Island and in Immokalee. The data shows
that traffic flow patterns for employment
head west in the mornings and east in the
evenings, indicating the need to support
commuters to Marco Island and
Immokalee. Refer to Figure 3-2 for zip code
boundaries displaying top home area
(residential) versus work areas. Appendix D
provides additional demographic maps
used in this analysis.
Because park-and-ride lots should be
located within less than 50 percent of
commuters’ travel time (Renaissance
Planning Group 2013), potential sites were
evaluated around the employee’s home,
evaluating direction of travel based on
employment centers and places with the
largest employers.
The Census data showed 89,002 people
employed and living inside the County,
52,918 people employed in the County but
living outside the County, and 51,782 people
living in the County but employed outside the
County, as indicated on Figure 3-3. Of the employed workers in the County, approximately 63 percent live
in the County. There is a close balance of commuters entering and leaving the County for work, indicating
Figure 3-3. Collier County Employment and Residency
Source: 2017 U.S. Census Data
Figure 3-2. Top Zip Codes for Home vs. Work Area
Source: 2017 U.S. Census Data
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the need for interconnected service to surrounding counties and regional interconnectivity. The Census
data show that most commuters come from Lee County surrounding I-75 and the Hendry County border.
3.2.4 Land Use
Employment centers and business districts analyzed included, but were not limited to, the Coastland
Center Mall, hospitals, County government campus (main campus, Horseshoe Drive, and planned
Resource Recovery Park), Arthrex, Mercado, Waterside Shops, and retirement communities, such as Vi at
Bentley Village and Moorings Park. Planned unit developments were used to determine location of
commercial and residential areas (Collier County 2020). Employee commute patterns in underserved
areas were also evaluated for the City of Everglades, Ave Maria, City of Immokalee, and City of Marco
Island. Table 3-4 lists proposed sites that consider employee commute patterns.
Table 3-4. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations Based on Employee Commute Patterns
Commute Pattern or Area
Park-and-Ride
Site ID Comments
Employment in the City of Marco
Island
PL-9, PL-10,
SL-13, SL-3,
SL-22
Many sites serve this area; however, these are targeted
lots.
Employment in the City of Cape
Coral (Lee County)
SL-15, SL-16,
PL-1
Existing Seed-to-Table lot also serves this area.
Employment in the City of
Immokalee and ZIP 34142
SL-5, SL-17,
PL-4, PL-11,
PL-9, PL-10,
SL-13
Existing lot at Golden Gate Estates Library also serves this
commute.
Employees commuting from
Golden Gate CDP
PL-6, SL-8 Existing lot at the Golden Gate Library also serves this
area.
Employees commuting from City
of Bonita Springs and City of
Cape Coral
PL-1, SL-16 Existing Seed-to-Table lot also serves this area.
Employees commuting from
Immokalee CDP
SL-3, SL-22
Employees commuting from
Lehigh Acres CDP
SL-3, SL-22 Lee County is in progress for developing a park-and-ride
lot for Lehigh Acres within Lee County limits.
Employees commuting from City
of Naples
Pl-8, PL-7, SL-12,
SL-20, SL-6
Employees commuting from
Marco Island
Existing at Marco
Island Library
Advertisement and guide signs are recommended to
increase awareness of this lot.
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Table 3-4. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations Based on Employee Commute Patterns
Commute Pattern or Area
Park-and-Ride
Site ID Comments
Employment circulation: inflow
and outflow to Collier County
SL-15, SL-16,
PL-1
To and from Lee County and City of Bonita Springs.
SL-3, SL-22 To and from Lehigh Acres.
SL-8, Sl-9, SL-19 To and from Broward and Dade County.
SL-23 To and from Monroe County.
Employees commuting from City
of Everglades
SL-23 In conjunction with proposed vanpool service.
Employees commuting from Ave
Maria
PL-11 Serving Ave Maria residents.
3.3 Beach Facilities
Collier County serves as a destination location with the Gulf of Mexico coastline and beaches as its major
generator of tourism (Naples beaches attract visitors worldwide). County and city public beaches reach
capacity with both residents and tourists during peak season from October through March, causing
informal park-and-ride to occur for beach access and beach hotel parking. Acquiring additional public
beach access is costly and the limited opportunities attract private businesses, making it challenging for
the County to acquire ideal locations at a reasonable cost. Several hotels along the coastline have
constructed parking garages to support their parking demands, with hotel expansions requiring additional
parking capacity, such as the Ritz-Carlton of Naples constructing a second parking garage to accom-
modate their expansion.
Beach capacity statistics were reviewed for the County beaches from 2017 through 2019. Table 3-5 lists
the number of days during the fiscal year (FY) that each beach reached parking capacity. Table 3-6
displays the quantity of vehicles required to turn around at beach parking lots resulting from lack of
capacity. Turnarounds were only counted where park attendants or vehicle counters exist. The beach
parking locations not listed do not have statistics on turnaround counts (Sullivan, pers. comm. 2020).
Table 3-5. Beach Parking Demand (2017–2019)
Source: Sullivan, pers. comm. 2020
Beach
Days at Capacity
FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 a
Barefoot Beach Access 84 54 72a
Barefoot Beach Preserve 39 24 30
Clam Pass Beach Park 36 10a 29
Conner Park 9a 1a 5
South Marco Beach 156 177 164
North Gulf Shore Beach 32 16 35
Tigertail Beach Park 13 8 12
Vanderbilt Beach Park 71 29 45
a Value has missing quarterly data. All Quarter 4 data for FY 19 was
not included.
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Table 3-6. Beach Capacity Total Turnarounds (2017–2019)
Source: Sullivan, pers. comm. 2020
Beach
Turnarounds
FY 17 FY 18 FY 19 a
Barefoot Beach Preserve 9,433 11,109 6,805
Clam Pass Beach Park 5,740 3,447a 4,539
Tigertail Beach Park 5,778 4,816 4,075
Vanderbilt Beach Park 2,793 2,689 1,460
a Value has missing quarterly data. All Quarter 4 data for FY 19 was
not included.
Beach parking locations were considered for areas under the existing power transmission lines that
parallel Livingston Road on the west. Because of limited land use options, a park-and-ride facility under
the transmission lines is an innovative use of the property. However, during stakeholder meetings, while
the Parks & Recreation Division recommended beach park-and-ride lots east of US 41 because of its
congestion, the County Tourism Division requested to locate beach lots closer than Livingston Road.
Vacant properties were examined around Goodlette-Frank Road to serve beaches along the arterials of
Pine Ridge Road, Vanderbilt Beach Road, and Immokalee Road. Refer to Table 3-7 for proposed beach
sites.
Of the existing County beaches, Clam Pass and Barefoot Beach Preserve have capacity to support
additional visitors but available areas can only be accessed by walking and do not have access by shuttle
or boardwalk. There is an existing CAT beach express bus that circulates from the Creekside transfer
station to Conner Park to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. However, each proposed beach lot is
recommended to have a designated beach shuttle during tourism season, if one does not exist.
Table 3-7. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations for Beach Access
Proposed Location/Description Park-and-Ride Site ID Comments
Beach lot (Goodlette-Frank Road) SL-24 Undeveloped 13-acre parcel along Goodlette-
Frank Rd.
Beach lot (Vanderbilt Beach Road) SL-25 Undeveloped 5-acre parcel between US 41 and
Goodlette-Frank Rd.
Beach lot (Pine Ridge Road) SL-26 Undeveloped 1.6-acre parcel adjacent to
Goodlette-Frank Rd. with parcel to the north
3.4 Candidate Locations Based on Stakeholder Input
Using public participation data (Appendix C), candidate sites were evaluated against locations already
identified to determine any additional sites. Survey responses included requests for proposed sites already
being considered such as:
• shuttle to beach
• Lee County to main government campus
• close to I-75
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• East Naples
• parking to help travel to Marco Island for work
• Golden Gate Estates express bus
• within Orangetree area to reduce traffic from Golden Gate Estates
Table 3-8 lists additional locations added based on stakeholder feedback. Park-and-ride lots on the
outskirts of downtown Naples to serve places that approach parking capacity, such as 5th Avenue North
and Cambier Park are recommended. Continued communication is needed between the County and City of
Naples to identify and develop park-and-ride lots to serve the downtown Naples area.
Table 3-8. Proposed Park-and-Ride Locations Based on Stakeholder Input
Proposed Location/Description
Park-and-Ride
Site ID Comments
Pine Ridge and Collier Boulevard
(CR 951)
SL-8 Requested along CR 951 to serve the Golden Gate
Estates area. Location proposed to capture area
after existing lot at Estates Library.
Downtown Naples (5th Ave., Cambier
Park, beaches)
N/A Requested to serve crowded destination spots
within the City of Naples.
Big Corkscrew Regional Island Park SL-4 Removed because PL-4 (Agricultural Center and
Fairgrounds) is closer and serves same targeted
ridership.
3.5 Proposed Park-and-Ride Sites
Based on the site identification described herein, the complete list of the evaluation sites developed is
shown on Figure 3-4 and Figure 3-5.
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Figure 3-4. Final Proposed Site Locations
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Figure 3-5. Close Up of Final Proposed Site Locations
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4. Site Design
4.1 Facility Types
The targeted ridership and area served will determine the type of park-and-ride facility. Table 4-1 lists the
types of park-and-ride lots identified in this Study serving the County’s current conditions. A full list of
park-and-ride facility types, with descriptions and standards for each, are identified in Table 3-1 of the
FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide.
Table 4-1. Types of Park-and-Ride Facilities
Source: State Park-and-Ride Guide (FDOT 2012)
Facility Type Description Recommended Site Size
Shared-use
(hosted on
existing lots)
Signing existing parking spaces in a
privately owned lot, typically at shopping
plazas to ideally reduce additional trips
taken by the user. Lease agreements are
required for this private-public
partnership.
Recommended 5 to 10 spaces based on demand.
For developer agreements, a minimum of 5 spaces
is recommended; however, quantity should be
tailored to the size of the development it would
serve based on full build-out.
Remote 20+ miles from employment. Low
population growth anticipated.
Refer to the FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide for
site size estimation calculations.
Urban Fringe Located along the boundaries of an urban
area. Serves areas of high concentrations
of employees (home residence).
Refer to the FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide for
site size estimation calculations.
Parking
Deficiency
Supports locations where parking
deficiencies already exist. Informal park-
and-ride and carpool may already occur.
Refer to the FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide for
site size estimation calculations.
4.2 Lot Size Estimation
The quantity of parking spaces recommended and total lot size (acres) was estimated for each Priority
Site. The lot size estimation was based on the FDOT (2012) State Park-and-Ride Guide methodology,
tailored to the information provided or accessible. Once the lot size (quantity of spaces) is estimated,
future build-out was determined with a design year of 2045. Acreage required for the lot was then
estimated, including sidewalk, bus bay waiting areas, and stormwater treatment. It is recommended to
acquire properties with the full acreage required to develop the 2045 build-out. Refer to Appendix E for
detailed calculations on site size.
Typically, lots are constructed to operate at 75 percent capacity. However, consideration should be made
based on construction costs and funding available to determine the size constructed. Designs can be
tailored to accommodate size and shape of the property available for parking. For example, a combination
of pervious and impervious spaces may be used to reduce the area needed for stormwater treatment.
Cost estimates were prepared based on lot size (refer to Section 6). Such additional features as restrooms,
car charging stations, or ride sharing accommodations were not included in the lot size estimation and
cost estimates. If such additional features with the site are desired, it is recommended to prepare a
conceptual site plan to estimate additional space and utilities required for the site size, as well as a revised
cost estimate.
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For shared-use lots on private property, the number of spaces provided usually ranges between 5 to 30
(Franklin Regional Council of Governments 2008). Because most sites proposed on shared-use are for
employees and carpools at locations that still have available capacity, a quantity of 5 spaces, no greater
than 10, was proposed for shared-use lots to serve current conditions.
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5. Site Evaluations
5.1 Evaluation Ranking
Site visits were performed at each proposed shared-use lot to identify additional features that could
benefit or hinder the success of the lot. Such features include lighting, security cameras, and the capacity
of the existing lot (that is, does the lot already reach capacity or is it underutilized). Sites that ranked the
highest reduce single occupancy trips and increase transit ridership. Sites with proposed alternative
transportation modes, as opposed to transit, to serve the site (such as an express bus, vanpool, Mobility on
Demand [MOD], etc.) are indicated under the comments section within each evaluation. Table 5-1
summarizes the final scores and prioritized rank. Refer to Appendix D for site photos and evaluation
reports on each location.
The TDP update was not finalized prior to the completion of this Study. The draft TDP report was used to
evaluate planned transit routes along each site, with planned routes noted in the comments section of
each form indicated as ‘TDP Proposed Routes’ (Medina 2020). Because the evaluations were based on the
existing network, the scoring was not affected if the TDP-proposed routes no longer accommodated a site.
However, if a vanpool service or MOD was proposed for the area, it was scored as an additional site benefit.
If the TDP plans to eliminate transit along a proposed site and a direct shuttle, vanpool, or MOD service is
not pursued by CAT to accommodate, the proposed site should not be pursued.
Of the 32 sites evaluated, the top 14 ranked sites are recommended as priority sites. A total of 4 sites are
proposed on existing lots, while 3 are not on County property and will require lease agreements. The
average score of evaluated sites was 81.5 percent with a standard deviation of 7.8.
5.2 Priority Sites
Figure 5-1 shows a map of the recommended priority site locations (including alternate locations)
according to rank and recommended alternate. If a priority site cannot be pursued at the proposed
location, the next highest-ranked site will be pursued. A site may be eliminated if agreement with property
owners cannot be reached for property acquisition or lease.
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Table 5-1. Final Evaluation Rankings
Rank Site ID
Final
Score Site Name
Lease
Agreement
Required?
County
Owned?
Parking
Spacesa
Lot Size
(acres) Alternate Locations
Targeted Ridership/
Destination Served Notesb
1 SL-15 102.8 Creekside 78 1.28 SL-1 Commuting between Collier and Lee County Phase I: Plaza not interested, proceed to Phase II. Options for lot location
provided.
2 SL-20 101.0 Government Campus 5-10 Commuters to work. Commuters to CBD Recommended adjacent to museum parking (closest to transfer station).
3 PL-7 98.6 Coastland Center Mall 5-10 SL-2 Commuters to work, Commuters to shopping/ entertainment Options provided to serve this location.
4 PL-9 93.8 Freedom Square shopping center 5 PL-10, SL-13 Commuters to Marco Island or Everglades City Recommended over two alternate locations.
5 SL-18 91.3 Physicians Regional (Pine Ridge) 5 Commuters to work, Carpool
6 SL-22 89.3 Immokalee Government Center 43 0.91 SL-3 All trips for Immokalee residents; Remote facility SL-3 is recommended over SL-22 because of funding obtained.
7 SL-13 87.9 Marco Island (Crossing 951 & 41) 5 PL-9, Pl-10 Commuters to Marco Island or Everglades City Reevaluate need if higher-ranked alternate, PL-9, is developed.
8 SL-8 87.6 Golf Course / VA hospital 10 SL-10 Commuters to work, Regional interconnectivity County to determine development plans and adding spaces for park-and-ride/
9 PL-10 87.5 Naples Outlet Mall 5 Pl-9, SL-13 Commuters to Marco Island or Everglades City Reevaluate need if higher-ranked alternates, SL 13 and PL-9, are developed.
10 SL-3 86.9 Immokalee Health Dept 43 0.91 SL-22 All trips for Immokalee residents leaving Immokalee Recommended over SL-22 because location has Tiger Grant funding for CAT
transfer station.
11 SL-26 85.6 Beach Lot (Pine Ridge Rd) 420 4.81 Beach parking deficiency County to determine plans for the lot.
12 SL-25 85.6 Beach Lot (Vanderbilt Beach Rd) 373 4.21 Beach parking deficiency County to determine plans for the lot.
13 SL-1 85.4 Railhead (Old US 41) 94 1.46 SL-15 Airport, Commuters to work, Commuters between Collier and
Lee County
If SL-15 is constructed, a smaller site size is recommended. Size should be
reevaluated based on site size of SL-15.
14 SL-10 83.1 Radio Rd Transfer Station lot 60 0.88 SL-8 Parking deficiency for transfer station and employment
center
Serves the Radio Rd. transfer station lot, which receives informal park-and-ride
and is reaching parking capacity.
15 SL-6 82.9 The Marketplace at Pelican Bay 5 SL-25 Commuters to work Not recommended if SL-25 is built.
16 SL-11 82.8 Publix Plaza (Thomasson Dr) 5 SL-20 Commuters to work, Commuters to shopping/ entertainment
17 SL-5 81.5 Publix Plaza (Randall Blvd) 5 Commuters to work, primarily westbound
18 PL-1 80.4 Walmart (Immokalee Rd) 5 - 10 SL-16 Commuting between Collier and Lee County Options provided.
19 PL-2 78.5 Government Services Center at Heritage Bay 5 Commuters to work, primarily westbound or southbound
20 SL-24 77.2 Beach lot (Goodlette-Frank Rd) 420 4.81 Beach parking deficiency
21 SL-17 76.8 Rural Village (Immokalee Rd) Needs Sizing PL-4 Commuters to work, primarily westbound
22 SL-7 75.7 Dicks Sporting Goods (Naples Blvd) 5 Commuters to work, Commuters to shopping/ entertainment
23 SL-2 75.1 Naples Plaza shopping center 5 PL-7 Commuters to work, Commuters to shopping/ entertainment
24 SL-21 75.1 Physicians Regional - Collier 5 Commuters to work, Carpool, primarily north and
southbound
25 SL-16 75 Target (Immokalee Rd) 5 PL-1 Commuting between Collier and Lee County Lease for Phase 1
26 PL-4 73.3 Agricultural Center and Fairgrounds Needs Sizing SL-17 Commuters to work, primarily westbound; Remote facility Phased as demand increases.
27 SL-23 73.3 Old Everglades Chamber of Commerce Needs Sizing Commuters to work; remote facility
28 SL-9 73.1 Sports Complex Needs Sizing Commuters to work, Carpool
29 SL-14 71.7 Golden Gate Estates (1st St) Needs Sizing Commuters to work, Carpool; Remote facility
30 PL-11 68.8 Ave Maria 5 Commuters to work, Carpool; Remote facility Options provided.
31 SL-12 66.1 Naples Airport 5 Commuters to work, Carpool Options provided.
32 SL-19 50.6 Resource Recovery Park Needs Sizing Commuters to work
a Quantity of parking spaces estimated to serve 2045 needs. Refer to Appendix E for site size calculations and FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide for site sizing guidance.
b Refer to Appendix D for the Site Evaluation on each location.
Notes: Sites removed or relocated include PL-3, PL-5, PL-6, PL-12, SL-4 (Big Corkscrew Regional Park). Refer to Table 3-1 for details.
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Figure 5-1. Recommended Priority Sites (Including Alternative Locations)
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5.3 Alternate Sites
Some service areas had alternative sites (separate site IDs) evaluated or phased development listed within
the comments section. The alternate with the highest rank should be pursued first and the other alternates
pursued as applicable. Sites with higher-ranked alternates should have its site size reevaluated based on
the size of the higher-ranked alternate that is developed. These locations in the Priority Sites include
SL-22, SL-13, PL-10, and SL-1.
Options are also presented on the evaluation forms for locations that may have more than one property
pursued, if the recommended parcel is not successful. Alternative sites should be evaluated to pursue on a
case-by-case basis, based on whether it is proposed on a shared-use or developed lot.
5.3.1 Alternates for Public-Private Partnerships
For sites requiring public-private partnerships, sites were proposed on shared-use lots where the
participating property owner would host a park-and-ride site on their lot. In this scenario, a lease
agreement would be required, and the designated parking spaces would be signed as park-and-ride.
Alternative sites on shared-use lots are considered interchangeable but can also be used in conjunction
with each other where applicable. For example, PL-9, PL-10, and SL-13 are all proposed on a shared-use
lots that requires a lease agreement and are alternates to each other. All three locations ranked as a
priority site. However, all three sites may not need to be pursued. The highest-ranked site (PL-9) should be
pursued first. If the property owner at the highest-ranked site is not amenable to providing the quantity of
proposed parking spaces, the remaining spaces recommended should be pursued at the next highest-
ranked alternate location.
5.3.2 Alternates for Developed Lots
For developed lots with alternative sites, only one site shall be pursued with the other alternate site
resized or eliminated. For example, SL-1 (Creekside) and SL-15 (Railhead) are alternates proposed for a
transfer facility and connection with LeeTran. SL-15 resulted in a higher score because it already serves as
a transfer station and accommodates several routes but requires the County to purchase property within
an approximate 0.5-mile range. However, if property cannot be acquired within a reasonable price, the
County should pursue its alternate, SL-1, which is on County-owned property. The transfer station with
LeeTran and applicable CAT routes should be evaluated and rerouted to accommodate the new location
as appropriate. If SL-15 is purchased and constructed, the site size for SL-1 should be significantly
reduced.
SL-22 (Immokalee Government Center) and SL-3 (Immokalee Health Department) are the two alternates
proposed in the City of Immokalee and are both ranked within the top priority sites. Although the
Immokalee Government Center scored slightly higher than the Immokalee Health Department, the Health
Department already has funding in place from the Tiger Grant awarded in 2018 to construct a bus transfer
station (Collier County 2020). Therefore, because of the proximity of the two lots, SL-3 should be the lot
constructed and SL-22 removed from consideration.
5.3.3 Phased Development
Some sites proposed various options for a location within the individual evaluation form. The evaluation
was performed on the proposed phase, with an interim or long-term solution indicated as the applicable
phase. Typically, approximately 5 spaces are proposed as an interim Phase I solution, with the fully
developed lot as the long-term solution.
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Some locations had options presented to pursue. The prioritized option should be pursued first, then if an
agreement or property acquisition cannot be made at agreeable terms, then the next option should be
pursued for that location.
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6. Cost Estimates
Cost estimates were developed for the priority site locations. Cost estimates included initial construction
costs, estimated operating costs, and anticipated leasing fees. Initial construction costs included the cost
of land acquisition, design, permitting, and the development of the site with recommended amenities. The
estimate for SL-15 is $564,940, $352,251 for SL-3, $2,587,310 for SL-26, $2,318,200 for SL-25, and
$686,344 for SL-10. Refer to Appendix E for a detailed breakdown of estimated costs and site size
requirements. As noted in Section 4.2, additional features such as restrooms were not included in the cost
estimates. Additional features desired should be added to the cost estimates provided.
The cost estimate for a new beach express shuttle to serve SL-26 is proposed to operate only during peak
season. Because the beach only reached maximum capacity 36 days per year within the last 3 years (refer
to Table 3-5), the cost estimate for a beach shuttle is anticipated to align with the cost of the R29a Beach
Bus. A new beach express shuttle is also recommended to serve SL-25. The cost for new service to accom-
modate the sites would be added to the cost estimates provided.
The yearly maintenance cost per space for maintaining pavement, drainage, landscaping, and fencing is
anticipated to cost at $130 per space per year for 2020. The yearly leasing fee for shared-use lots on
private property is anticipated to be minimal, estimated at approximately $15 per space per year for 2020
(FDOT 2012).
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7. Funding Sources
An important consideration for prioritizing park-and-ride sites is determining available funding for
developing and maintaining the site. Federal, state, and local funding options were reviewed in relation to
each proposed park-and-ride site. Funding allocation will be needed for all elements of the development
and maintenance including design, ROW acquisition or lease, construction, promotion, monitoring,
operating, and management of the development and maintenance of the facilities. Funding will also be
needed for any future expansion or improvements to the sites.
The FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide (FDOT 2012) summarizes potential federal and state funding
sources for building park-and-ride facilities. The programs were evaluated for funding, implementing, and
maintaining park-and-ride facilities as applicable to the proposed sites for the County. Refer to Section 8.2
for recommended funding sources to pursue for priority lots.
7.1 Federal Funding
Federal resources are available and generally targeted to support the highway system and improve its
capacity. Table 7-1 summarizes potential federal resources for programs administered by the Federal
Transit Administration (FTA). A recent award of the FY 17 Buses and Bus Facilities Infrastructure
Investment Program through the FTA was to Lee County for the transfer station and park-and-ride lot
(FTA 2020).
Table 7-1. Federal Funding Sources
Source: State Park-and-Ride Guide (FDOT 2012)
Funding Source Agency Description Comments
5309 Bus and Bus
Facilities (Transit
Project Earmarks)
FTA The Capital Investment Grants and Loans
Program (formerly Discretionary Grants)
provides transit capital assistance for new
fixed guideway systems and extensions to
existing fixed guideway systems (New
Starts), fixed guideway modernization, and
bus and bus-related facilities.
Project must be consistent with
the MPO plan, and typically
matched on 80/20 basis.
Small Starts FTA This program is following a simplified
process for projects seeking less than
$75 million in federal discretionary “Small
Starts” funds and with a total project cost
not exceeding $250 million.
Has many requirements that are
still in process. Exclusivity of
corridor, model, and ridership
may be issues.
Very Small Starts FTA FTA has defined a class of projects that are
very simple, low-cost, and demonstrably
effective called Very Small Starts projects
within the Small Starts Program. FTA’s
intent is that Very Small Starts will qualify
for an even simpler and expedited
evaluation and rating process.
Designed for the bus rapid transit
services. Can be as high as 80/20
funding.
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Table 7-1. Federal Funding Sources
Source: State Park-and-Ride Guide (FDOT 2012)
Funding Source Agency Description Comments
5307 Formula
Funds
FTA The Urbanized Area Formula Grants
Program provides transit capital and
operating assistance to urbanized areas
with populations of more than 50,000.
Approximately $18 billion is provided to
transit agencies for bus and rail vehicle
replacements and facility recapitalization.
Project must be consistent with
MPO plan and Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP).
Typically used by transit agencies
for non-project-specific funding.
5311 Capital
Grant Program
FTA This program provides grants for
transportation projects that are included in
a state program of mass transportation
service projects (including service
agreements with private providers of mass
transportation service) for areas other than
urbanized areas. Each state receives an
apportioned amount based on its amount of
non-urban area. This program is often used
for operating assistance.
Eligible activities include planning
and marketing for intercity bus
transportation; capital grants for
intercity bus shelters; joint-use
stops and depots; operating
grants through purchase-of-
service agreements, user-side
subsidies, and demonstration
projects.
CMAQ Funds FTA A modification to the law during
Transportation Equity Act of the 21st
Century provides states that receive the
minimum apportionment of 0.5 percent
with some flexibility to use CMAQ funds for
Surface Transportation Program (STP)-
eligible purposes.
Project must be consistent with
the local comprehensive plan and
must be included in MPO plan
and TIP.
STP Funds FTA These funds are excess highway funds or
those chosen to be flexed to transit
projects. Federal and state funds that are
flexed are permanently removed from a
highway project or from potential highway
project funding.
Project must be consistent with
the local comprehensive plan and
must be included in MPO plan
and TIP.
7.2 State Funding
FDOT has a Park-and-Ride Grant Program that supports the purchase or leasing of private land for the
construction of park-and-ride lots, as well as the promotion (advertisement) and monitoring of the lots. It
is an integral part of the Commuter Assistance Program. The Central Office has established criteria for
detailed park-and-ride planning, implementation, and evaluation. All local park-and-ride projects are
reviewed for eligibility by the FDOT District office, and suitable projects are considered for funding.
Table 7-2 summarizes potential state resources for programs administered by FDOT.
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Table 7-2. State Funding Sources
Source: State Park-and-Ride Guide (FDOT 2012)
Funding Source Agency Description Associated Issues
Transit/Rail
Service
Development
FDOT Discretionary funding allocated to
specific projects by FDOT policy makers
to assist in initiating new transit or rail
service. Assistance can be either capital
or operating grants, although operating
assistance is limited to a defined
timeframe (typically 3 years).
Project must be consistent with the
local comprehensive plan and must
be included in MPO plan and TIP.
Strategic
Intermodal System
FDOT An initiative by FDOT to provide funding
for statewide and regionally significant
transportation facilities and services.
Initial focus is on improving intercity
transportation corridors, rather than
local services.
Park-and-Ride;
Commuter
Assistance
Programs
FDOT Programs to facilitate the use of car
pools/vanpools by providing funding
for planning, marketing, and capital
projects.
Historically, focus has been on
commuter assistance.
Intermodal
Development
FDOT Program designed to provide funding
for improved access, connections to
other modes (for example, airports,
seaports, and rail), and to facilitate
intermodal or multimodal movement of
people and goods.
Project must be consistent with the
local comprehensive plan and must
be included in MPO plan and TIP.
Public Transit
Block Grants
FDOT Formula grants to established transit
providers for use on capital projects or
operating assistance.
Project must be consistent with the
local comprehensive plan and must
be included in MPO plan and TIP.
State Infrastructure
Bank Loans
FDOT Provides low interest loans for
transportation projects – all modes.
Repayment terms are flexible and are
negotiated on a case-by-case basis. This
is a financing tool, not a grant.
Project must be consistent with the
local comprehensive plan and must
be included in MPO plan and TIP.
Not a grant—requires repayment.
TRIPS FDOT Program to improve travel on regionally
significant facilities or benefit regional
travel or commerce; 50 percent of
project cost or 50 percent of non-
federal share.
Project must be consistent with the
local comprehensive plan and must
be included in MPO plan and TIP.
CIGP FDOT Up to 50 percent for improvements to
relieve congestion on State Highway
System.
Project must be consistent with the
local comprehensive plan and must
be included in MPO plan and TIP.
New Starts FDOT Dollar-for-dollar match of local funds
for New Starts projects.
Project must be consistent with the
local comprehensive plan and must
be included in MPO plan and TIP.
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7.3 Local Funding
Local funding is typically required to match the federal and state resources. Local funds can include
general Capital Funds or various taxes, such as sales tax, property tax, local business tax, taxes associated
with transportation (such as vehicle registration fees), or tourist development tax.
The County’s tourist development tax is governed by the Tourist Development Council (TDC) and TDC tax
dollars are used for the promotion of tourism. Any projects and expenditures of tourist development tax
must be approved by the TDC. This is a potential funding source to assist with park-and-ride lots
associated with beach park facilities or those specifically designed to support tourism. Projects seeking
TDC funding require TDC Board conceptual approval prior to advancement to ensure eligibility and
support.
Another possible local funding option includes working with the County MPO Congestion Management
System to determine if their program has potential for funding certain park-and-ride facilities. Park-and-
ride lots would be eligible under this program if they are located along corridors that do not meet an
acceptable level of service and do not have funding for widening within the next 5 years. The Congestion
Management Committee would review selected park-and-ride lots that meet this program’s goal to
determine if it would be advanced for recommendation. If advanced, the Congestion Management
Committee would prioritize the project and bring to the MPO Board for final approval.
7.4 Alternative Funding Strategies
An alternative strategy for the development of additional park-and-ride lots in congested areas is to work
with new commercial developments in their conceptual and design stage. When designing parking
requirements for a commercial use, allowing developers to provide required parking spaces offsite can
help promote park-and-ride facilities and reduce congestion. The developer could be given the option to
either build a park-and-ride offsite or participate in a joint planned effort with funds from several
developers being pooled for constructing lots or parking garages. Offsite parking for developers can be
made more attractive by providing incentives and benefits, such as increased square footage capability for
buildings, water treatment and storage, or even reduced development fees.
The Seed-to-Table park-and-ride lot near the
intersection of Livingston Road and Immokalee
Road is a good example of such an arrangement
(refer to Figure 7-1). Seed-to-Table is a retail
market and café who funded and constructed a
park-and-ride lot on County property. The design
of the lot incorporates one section designated for
Seed-to-Table use only and another section for
public use. Because the lot is not ideal for
pedestrian commute to the shopping center, the
County required Seed-to-Table to provide a
shuttle service to safely bring users (targeted for
employees) across Livingston Road to the
shopping center.
Another alternative strategy is to use regulatory
requirements to implement revisions to County and City systems (Naples, Marco Island, and Everglades
City). For example, modifications to the Concurrency Management System Ordinances could be made by
revising mitigating improvements to accept transit, instead of contributing to roadway improvements. This
Figure 7-1. Seed-to-Table Park-and-Ride lot
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would be advantageous where developments are increasing trips on corridors that have limited or no
capability for ROW expansion (for example, Immokalee Road around I-75) or congested segments that
cannot improve capacity or level of service because of financial limitations or environmental restrictions.
It is recommended for the County and its associated municipalities to endorse this ordinance change. A
standard process would need to be developed for computing transit fees as an alternative mitigating
improvement. Specific areas or segments should be selected where this option is available to developers.
The associated fees should be updated as needed in conjunction with the transit or mobility plan
accepting this alternative (FDOT 2012).
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8. Recommendations and Conclusions
Park-and-ride priority lots should be adopted into the County’s LRTP and TDP updates. In addition, new
sites should be acquired and reserved for the future along corridors identified in the AUIR or LRTP as
deficient and along corridors with high commuter patterns, even if transit is currently not yet provided
along that route. The County’s property acquisition team should inform CAT when any opportunities arise
for potential purchase of land near these main arterials to serve this demand, as well as for beach parking
within a 3-mile radius of beaches at capacity (refer to Table 3-5) especially in areas with limited
availability, such as South Marco Beach Access in Marco Island.
8.1 Best Practices
Designing and building cost-efficient park-and-ride facilities is key for the success of funding and
feasibility. Facilities should be designed with landscaping that requires little to no maintenance to further
reduce upkeep costs. In addition, Collier County Vertical Construction Standards should be incorporated
where applicable for such items as video surveillance. Designing the sites with conventional facility
standards that are used around the County, such as standard lighting fixtures and gates, will allow for
efficient maintenance and servicing.
Strategies and best practices should be incorporated into site design where feasible, as noted in
Appendix A. Where appropriate based on parking and roadway capacity, park-and-ride spaces on shared-
use lots can be designed for use only from Monday through Friday or weekends only.
For the lots designed to accommodate offsite airport parking for the Southwest Florida International
Airport. If charging is desired, parking meters and the PayByPhone system, or equivalent, could be
implemented, with numbered parking spaces. The County shall determine the maximum amount of days
to allow overnight parking. Expired spaces may be ticketed or towed at the owner’s expense. Using a
parking meter that can be paid through an online (PayByPhone) portal would allow commuters who have
unplanned extended trips to pay for the additional parking days remotely.
The PayByPhone parking system with phone application is used by more than 300 cities designed to
accommodate this service. An MOD service should be developed with Lee County to serve the airport
commuters, such as those using SL-1. Lots allowing overnight parking should be fenced with automatic
timed gates and night vision cameras to increase safety and security.
8.2 Property Acquisition and Lease Agreements
To develop new lots, the following actions are recommended:
• Establish funding, secure local funds, or obtain grants as applicable
• Acquire property
• Design and permit
• Construct
To establish funding for SL-15 (Creekside) and SL-10 (Radio Rd Transfer Station lot), grants may be
pursued as the facility will also serve the transfer station. It is recommended to pursue the bus and bus
facilities grant; however, funding can also be pursued using public transit block grants or possibly through
the MPO’s Congestion Management Committee.
For SL-3 (Immokalee Health Department), the funding for the transit center was included with Immokalee
Complete Streets grant proposal, which was awarded the Tiger IX Grant in March 2018. The project
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included a bus bay, canopy shelter, waiting area, trash receptacles, vending machines, restrooms, and
Americans with Disabilities Act improvements.
For the proposed beach lots, SL-26 (Pine Ridge Rd) and SL-25 (Vanderbilt Beach Rd), it is recommended
to pursue TDC funds and the bus and bus facilities grant. An alternate funding source could be through
public transit block grants.
For shared-use lots requiring private-public partnerships, funding should be pursued using the FDOT Park-
and-Ride commuter assistance programs. Property owners of the priority locations on shared-use lots
were contacted. CAT and Collier MPO should more formally engage with property owners at proposed
lease locations to describe the project and inform on the benefits a park-and-ride can bring to commercial
lots. A sample maintenance agreement can be found in the FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide.
8.3 Promotion of the Facilities
As discussed in Appendix A, guide signs following the latest MUTCD guidelines are recommended on the
major arterial leading to each park-and-ride lot (existing and future) provided within the County, as well as
at the entrance of each lot. In addition, CAT should create a separate webpage identifying each lot and
shared-use site available for park-and-ride within the County, with photos and descriptions of each lot.
The webpage should include information on the benefits of using park-and-ride and links for commuter
service and MOD available. In addition, park-and-ride locations should be added to the overall CAT map
and to the interactive bus route maps’ Real Time Trip Planner webpage (CAT 2020).
The facilities can also be promoted by installing amenities to entice users to the lot, such as electric
vehicle car charging stations. To help commuters to reach their ultimate destination after taking transit,
alternative methods such as electric scooter stations can be installed at popular stops. Each developed
park-and-ride lot and transfer station should have informational signs about the lots available within the
County and information on CAT and the commuter assistance program.
To advertise designated beach park-and-ride lots, tourism and Parks & Recreation websites should
promote the lots to increase awareness. Pamphlets of the beach shuttle should be available at hotels and
tourist locations. The Parks & Recreation Division recommended the beach shuttle be exchanged with a
beach trolley, with open windows and beach graphic wraps to attract tourists and entice users. Additional
promotion and marketing strategies outlined in FDOT State Park-and-Ride Guide (FDOT 2012) should be
pursued as resources and funding are available.
For all beach park-and-ride lots, digital ‘real-time’ tracking signs indicating the quantity of available
spaces is proposed along the arterials. Real-time tracking for SL-26 should be posted at the park-and-ride
lot (Pine Ridge Road) for drive-by trips as well as on US 41 prior to visitors entering Seagate Drive. This
will reduce trips on Seagate Drive and promote lot use. The real-time tracking should also be posted
online to allow visitors to plan their route accordingly during peak season. The online location should be
easy to search, with the location posted on the interactive sign. It would be ideal for the website to indicate
‘real-time’ availability of parking at each of the County beach lots.
8.4 Park-and-Ride Handbook
A Park-and-Ride Handbook was developed to assist in the evaluation process for future sites analyzed
after the conclusion of this Study (refer to Appendix B). The handbook should also be used as the basis for
any future park-and-ride studies performed for the County. The handbook includes guidance on the site
selection and evaluation process as well as the Evaluation Methodology and Evaluation Forms.
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF 8-3
Weighting and evaluation methodology should be reevaluated as demographics, needs, and development
changes occur within the County from the current 2020 conditions of this Study.
Collier MPO and CAT Park-and-Ride Study
PPS0715201202SWF 9-1
9. References
BMI, Burgess & Niple, Inc., and Fitzgerald & Halliday, Inc. 2003. Northern Virginia Park & Ride Lot
Feasibility Study Final Report. Prepared for: Virginia Department of Transportation Northern Virginia
District. April. http://www.virginiadot.org/projects/resources/NorthernVirginia/NoVA-pknride-study.pdf.
Coastal Region MPO. “Park and Ride Lot Initiative." Accessed July 2020.
https://www.thempc.org/Core/Pr#gsc.tab=0.
Collier County. 2016. IMMOKALEE COMPLETE STREETS GROWING CONNECTIONS TO CREATE MOBILITY
OPPORTUNITIES TIGER 2016 APPLICATION.
https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/home/showdocument?id=65746
Collier County. 2019. ANNUAL UPDATE & INVENTORY REPORT/CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT ELEMENT
SCHEDULE UPDATE ON PUBLIC FACILITIES 2019 AUIR/CIE. Prepared by Comprehensive Planning Section
Zoning Division Growth Management Department.
Collier County. 2019. Collier County Sports Complex & Events Center. December 10.
https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/home/showdocument?id=90757
Collier Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). 2020. Public Participation Plan. June 12.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 2020. "Park and Ride." Accessed July 2020.
https://www.mass.gov/park-and-ride.
Commuter Services of Pennsylvania. 2020. "Park & Ride Map." Accessed July 2020.
https://pacommuterservices.org/park-ride-map/.
Connetics Transportation Group, Moffatt & Nichol, and Symbioscity. 2014. Park-And-Ride Lot Study Final
Report. Prepared for: Coastal Region MPO. September.
https://www.thempc.org/eagenda/x/acat/2014/October%2020,%202014%20Regular%20Meeting%20
of%20the%20CORE%20MPO%20ACAT%20on%20Monday,%20October%2020,%202014/47438766-
0949-402D-8459-D1A489615413.pdf
David Plummer and Associates, Inc. 2010. Miami-Dade Countywide Consolidated Park-and-Ride Facilities
Plan. October. http://miamidadetpo.org/library/studies/consolidated-park-and-ride-facilities-plan-final-
2010-10.pdf
Emerald Coast Regional Council. 2020. Park and Ride. Accessed August 17.
https://www.ecrc.org/programs/transportation_planning/park_and_ride.php
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). 2009. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and
Highways. 2009 Edition. U.S. Department of Transportation. December.
Federal Transit Administration (FTA). 2020. “Fiscal Year 2017 Bus and Bus Facilities Projects.” Accessed
July 2020. https://www.transit.dot.gov/funding/grants/fiscal-year-2017-bus-and-bus-facilities-projects.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). 2009. Florida's Statewide Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan. FDEP Division of Recreation and Parks. November 16.
https://floridadep.gov/sites/default/files/OutdoorRecreationinFlorida2008.pdf
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PPS0715201202SWF 9-2
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). 2012. State Park-and-Ride Guide. Prepared for: Florida
Department of Transportation Transit Office. June 1.
https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-
source/content/transit/pages/finalparkandrideguide20120601.pdf?sfvrsn=a592696c_0
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). 2019. SIS Atlas. October 31.
https://fdotwww.blob.core.windows.net/sitefinity/docs/default-source/planning/systems/programs/
mspi/pdf/sis-atlas-103119d82d9d26abf840a38ffc216e03e26474.pdf
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). 2020. Commute Connector. Accessed August 17.
https://commuteconnector.agilemile.com.
Franklin Regional Council of Governments. 2008. Franklin County Park and Ride Study. Prepared for:
Franklin County. September. https://frcog.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/%E2%80%A2-
ParkandRideStudy_Final-Report-%E2%80%A2-.pdf
Google. 2020a. “Park & Ride, San Carlos Drive, Fort Myers Beach.” Accessed July 2020.
https://earth.google.com/web/.
Jacobs. 2020. Collier MPO 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan. December 2020 (expected).
Karto, Zachary , Senior Planner, Collier Area Transit. 2020. Personal communication (email) with Felicia
Kirby, Jacobs. July 13.
Lee County Transit (LeeTran). 2019. LeeTran System Map.
https://www.leegov.com/leetran/PublishingImages/Lee%20Tran%20System%20Map%202019%20web.
pdf
Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT). 2018. MCAT Transit Development Plan 2019 - 2028 Major Update
Final Report. Prepared for: Manatee County. Prepared by: Manatee County Area Transit. August.
https://www.mymanatee.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_7588306/File/Departments/MCAT/Agency%20I
nformation/Transit%20Development%20Plan/Manatee-Connect-TDP-Final-Report-1.pdf
Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT). 2019. 2019-2020 Annual Progress Report for the MCAT Transit
Development Plan 2019-2028 Major Update. August. https://www.mymanatee.org/published/
August%206,%202019%20-%20Regular%20Meeting%20on%20Tuesday,%20August%
2006,%202019/71D20B1E-CBE7-4E7A-8F1E-084047CBB58D.pdf
Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT). 2020. “Bus Routes and Maps.”
https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/mcat/bus_routes_and_maps. Accessed July 2020.
Matthew C. Boyer & Associates. 2014. Humboldt County Association of Governments Park and Ride Study:
Technical Memorandum: #1B (Commute Patterns). Prepared for: Humboldt County. April.
http://www.hcaog.net/sites/default/files/tm_1b_draft_final_042814.pdf
Matthew C. Boyer & Associates. 2017. Draft Park-and-Ride Master Plan. Prepared for El Dorado County
Transit Authority. January 24. http://3nmak51dheck3t8vkw20jvcz-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-
content/uploads/2017/01/Report-Draft-El-Dorado-Transit-Park-and-Ride-Master-Plan-2017-02-02.pdf
Medina, Josephine, Senior Planner, Collier MPO. 2020. Personal communication (email) with Felicia Kirby,
Jacobs. April 1, 2020.
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Miami-Dade County. 2020. "Metrobus Park and Ride Lots." Accessed July 2020.
https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metrobus-park-ride.page.
Miami-Dade County. 2018. Dolphin Station Truck Parking and Park & Ride Site Feasibility Study. Prepared
for: Miami-Dade County. Accessed June 2020. https://www.mdxway.com/pdf/2-
Dolphin%20Park%20and%20Ride%20Transportation%20Aesthetics%20Review%20Committee%20pres
entation.pdf
Olson, Nancy, Regional Manager, Parks & Recreation. 2018. Personal communication (email) with Felicia
Kirby, Jacobs. May 23.
Renaissance Planning Group. 2013. Regional Park-And-Ride Strategic Implementation Plan for the
Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization. Prepared for: Sarasota MPO. December.
Ride Solutions. Park-And-Ride Study: Inventory, Use, and Need for the Roanoke and New River Valley
Regions. Prepared for: Virginia Department of Transportation. Prepared by: Ride Solutions.
http://nrvrc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Park-And-Ride-Study-2009.pdf
Spillar, Robert J. 1997. Park-and-Ride Planning and Design Guidelines. Prepared by: Parsons Brinckerhoff
Quade & Douglas, Inc. October. http://cdn.wspgroup.com/8kzmue/park-and-ride-planning-and-design-
guidelines.pdf
Sullivan, Jake, Acting Manager Region I, Collier County. 2020. Personal communication (email) with Felicia
Kirby, Jacobs. March 3, 2020.
Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. 2011. Transit Development Plan FY 2012 - 2021 Final Report. Prepared
for: Lee County Transit. September. https://www.leegov.com/leetran/Documents/LeeTran_2012_TDP.pdf
Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. 2012. Conceptual Vision for Park-and-Ride Facilities Final Report.
Prepared for: Pasco County MPO. December. https://www.pascocountyfl.net/DocumentCenter/View/
11055/Pasco-Park-and-Ride-Vision---Final?bidId=
Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. 2012. Transit Infrastructure Guidelines Manual. Prepared for: Pasco
County Metropolitan Planning Organization. December.
Tindale-Oliver & Associates, Inc. 2018. MCAT Transit Development Plan 2019 - 2028 Major Update Final
Report. Prepared for Manatee County Area Transit. August.
https://www.mymanatee.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_7588306/File/Departments/MCAT/Agency%20I
nformation/Transit%20Development%20Plan/Manatee-Connect-TDP-Final-Report-1.pdf
University of South Florida (USF). 2005. COLLIER COUNTY Park & Ride Site Identification Study. Prepared
for: Collier County. Prepared by: Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR). November.
University of South Florida (USF). 2011. TBEST Model Enhancements Parcel Level Demographic Data
Capabilities and Exploration of Enhanced Trip Attraction Capabilities. Prepared for: State of Florida
Department of Transportation (FDOT). Prepared by: Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR).
September. https://www.nctr.usf.edu/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/77801.pdf
Valley Metro. 2018. North Glendale Park-And-Ride Study Final Report. May. https://www.valleymetro.org/
sites/default/files/uploads/event-resources/n_glendale_pnr_study_final_rpt_0518.pdf
Valley Metro. 2020. "Park-and-Rides." https://www.valleymetro.org/park-and-ride. Accessed July 2020.
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Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB). 2019. Transit Development Plan Major Update (2020–2029).
Prepared for Sarasota County Area Transit. August. https://www.scgov.net/home/
showdocument?id=42942
Collier County. 2020. Collier County GIS Hub. Accessed April 15. https://hub-
collierbcc.opendata.arcgis.com/search?q=pud%20Collier%20County.
U.S. Census Bureau. 2020. OnTheMap. Accessed April 29, 2020. https://onthemap.ces.census.gov.
Caltrans. 2020. "Park and Ride Program." Accessed July 2020. https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-
me/district-11/programs/district-11-planning-local-assistance/district-11-park-ride-program.
Citrus Connection. 2020. “Routes/Services.” Accessed July 2020. https://ridecitrus.com/routes/.
City of New York. 2020. "FAQ: Park-n-Ride." Accessed July 2020.
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/opa/commuters/faq-park-n-ride.page.
Google. 2020b. “Gow B. Fields Park and Ride.” Accessed July 2020. https://earth.google.com/web/.
Lee County. 2020. "Lee Tran Beach Park and Ride." Accessed July 2020.
https://www.leegov.com/facilities/project?pID=25/.
Broward County Transit. 2020. System Map. Accessed August 17.
https://www.broward.org/BCT/Documents/SystemMap.pdf.
Palm Tran. 2020. Accessed August 17. https://www.palmtran.org/.
PayByPhone. 2020. Accessed September 2020. https://www.paybyphone.com/.
Collier County. 2020. TIGER GRANT IX. Accessed September 14, 2020.
https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-a-e/capital-project-planning-impact-fees-
and-program-management/transportation-planning-section/grants/tiger.
Collier Area Transit. 2020. MyStop. Accessed September 16. http://collierivl.availtec.com/infopoint/.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
1
Transportation Voucher Replication Project Work Plan
Timeline, Person Responsible, Proposer’s Response to Planned Scope of Work and Services to be populated by proposer.
Scope of Work Prescribed Tasks Timeline Person Responsible Proposers’ Response to Planned
Scope of Work and Services
1. Develop a Transportation Voucher Replication
Program similar in scope to the HARTPlus
Customer Choice Program.
a. Identify targeted estimates and
descriptions for the program.
1. Identify approximate number of
individuals to be served.
2. Identify approximate number of trips to
be provided (i.e., daily, monthly,
annually).
3. Describe how the individuals to be
served compares with current services
and quantify how current services will
be improved.
4. Describe anticipated hours that service
will be available (i.e., hours per day,
days per week).
5. Describe service coverage area for
proposed project.
October 2020 –
January 2021
Omar DeLeon Provide estimates and descriptions for 1.a.1-5
below.
1. The Voucher Project is expected to serve all
3,260 passengers currently actively using the
County’s ADA paratransit system.
2. The Project is projected to provide
approximately 8,125 annual trips.
3. The existing ADA paratransit system provides
approximately 79,000 annual trips. With the
implementation of the Voucher programs we
expect an increase of 9% in the annual trip
volume. The program will increase
accessibility to life sustaining and quality of
life venues by allowing same day service
rather than the current 24-hour preschedule
requirement. (See Project Description below)
4. Service hours will be from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00
p.m. 7- days a week.
5. The service will cover the entire Collier
County geographic area.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
2
b. Develop transportation provider(s)
selection process.
1. Describe the capacity and availability of
transportation providers that currently
serve the area.
2. Describe the types of transportation
providers you plan to use with your
voucher program.
3. Describe Request for Proposals or
Request for Bids process (if applicable).
4. Describe planned contractual
arrangements with transportation
provider(s).
5. Describe minimum vehicle operator
requirements/qualifications.
6. Identify how background and motor
vehicle record check processes and
details will be implemented and
maintained.
Describe plans for addressing 1.b.1-6 below.
1. Collier County operated a Demand Response
Paratransit service that provides door-to-
door transportation service to the
developmentally disadvantaged, elderly, and
transportation disadvantaged population. All
participants in the program must be pre-
approved through an application process.
Once approved passengers are required to
reserve their trips at least 24-hour prior to
the day of the desired trip. The program is
managed by the County and a Contracted
vendor, MV Transportation, Inc., hires and
trains the drivers to perform the service. The
County’s program provides approximately
100,000 trips annually (pre-COVID).
In addition to the Contracted vendor Collier
County has several Taxi Companies and two
Transportation Network Companies (TNC)
available to service the community.
2. The intent is to partner with a TNC to provide
the users with an option and ensure the
program includes accessible vehicles.
3. Collier County Request for Proposal process is
consistent with the Uniform Administrative
Requirement 2 CFR 200 and attached Collier
County Procurement Ordinance.
4. Collier County will contract with Uber and will
ensure riders have a choice between mobility
providers along with availability of
wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV).
Provider(s) will provide a safe and convenient
on-demand, shared rides service to
compliment the CAT Connect service (Collier
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
3
County’s paratransit system). Passengers pay
a $4 fare for the trip and anything over $20.
The service will be an on-demand type
service and available 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
7- days a week. If there is an opportunity to
multi-load then trips may be provided
together.
5. Vehicle operators will be required to meet
minimum background check requirements to
ensure that operators do not have a criminal
conviction that would make the person a
threat to passenger safety or threaten the
loss of CAT Connect property.
6. Criminal background checks will be
conducted at the time of hire. Driving and
criminal history checks are rerum annually,
where permitted by law. The records will be
maintained for 3-years. Vehicle records will
be stored in Motor Vehicle Reports that are
maintained by and obtained from the State
Department of Motor Vehicles by the
Contractor. Collier County’s auditing Division
may conduct inspections of invoicing and
payment records on their schedule and
record their findings to be discussed with the
Contractor and required improvements will
be noted as necessary.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
4
c. Establish eligibility, registration, and
reservation procedures.
1. Describe eligibility requirements and
certification process to be used,
including application.
2. Describe passenger registration
process.
3. Describe trip reservation process.
Describe plans for addressing 1.c.1-3 below.
1. Eligibility requirements will be consistent
with those of the CAT Connect ADA service
which requires one’s disability preventing
them from using the Cat Fixed Route system.
All ADA certified passenger will be eligible for
this program. Certification is valid for a 3-
year period. The application is attached to
this proposal. The program will not be
available to the general public just those that
qualify.
2. CAT Connect staff will promote this service
and send information of the new program to
existing ADA approved passengers.
Passengers will be sent an email to provide
them access to the program. Once they join
the program the system to verify whether
their trip meets the requirement. (See
Profiles tool description below for more
details)
3. Trips shall be reserved by contacting the
hired contractor via phone, web portal, or
app, depending in which ride option a
passenger chooses and how they prefer to
book. The passenger will give their desired
destination and once all details of the trip
have been provided and confirmed, the
passenger will be advised when the driver
will be there for pick-up and the cost of the
trip.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
5
d. Develop Transportation Voucher
instrument and associated procedures.
1. Describe proposed voucher instrument
and how the voucher will be used.
2. Define the voucher distribution
process.
3. Identify cost to the passenger (if
applicable).
4. Describe invoicing and reimbursement
process for providers and volunteer
drivers (if applicable).
5. Describe accounting safeguards to
ensure the use of vouchers for
approved purposes.
Describe plans for addressing 1.d.1-5 below.
1. CAT Connect will like to implement a voucher
instrument that functions much like the
commercial Transportation Network
Companies (TNC) Uber but as a shared ride
system. The instrument will be administered
through an app or on a web portal for those
who do not have access to a mobile device.
2. Users profiles will be incorporated into the
CAT Connect eligibility process to notify
passengers that have already been certified
through the system’s ADA service of the new
service. Instruction on how access the
program or how to download the app for the
provider will also be distributed, if applicable.
3. There will be no cost to passengers for the
app, or to receive the voucher. The
passenger will, however, be responsible for
paying a $4 fare for the trip and anything
over $20.
4. The program is not intending to utilize
volunteer drivers. The hired providers will
provide a monthly invoice and required
backup information showing all trips
provided. The County will validate the
information and pay accordingly. The TNC
Partner will invoice for program usage on a
monthly basis, with program pricing
matching publicly available pricing through
their platform. This will include Agency
management tools and data reporting
modules at no additional cost. Because this
will be a pay for performance program, there
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
6
e. Describe plans for delivering sensitivity or
disability awareness training to staff and
transportation providers.
1. Describe existing and planned practices
for delivering sensitivity or disability
awareness training to staff and
transportation providers.
will be no program costs besides for trips
provided through the program. We will
provide payments through credit card or ACH
transfer once they have been approved by
Collier County program staff.
5. A comparison of the current list of eligible
passengers will be reviewed with the list of
trips submitted by the provider with the
invoice to ensure only eligible passenger trips
are being charged. Also, further validation
will be done by contacting passengers
randomly to confirm trips were taken. Trips
with the TNC Partner will be limited to
eligible riders and eligible trips within our
program definitions. Collier County will also
have access to a program administrative
dashboard that will allow us to view and
export trip information through a web portal,
allowing us to verify and approve program
usage easily and flexibly.
Describe plans for addressing 1.e.1 below.
1. Existing staff are required to participate in
sensitivity and disability awareness training
on a regular basis. Each employee goes
through training at hire and receives
refresher training annually. The provider
will be required to demonstrate that its
drivers have received similar training as part
of the quality control review by the County.
Uber, the TNC Partner for this program, sets
out how riders should be treated in their
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
7
f. Develop and implement marketing and
outreach efforts.
1. Identify type of marketing tools to be
developed (e.g., fact sheets, brochures,
flyers, online information).
2. Describe proposed methods for
disseminating marketing tools and
overall outreach efforts.
Community Guidelines. Drivers who breach
these Community Guidelines may have their
access to the Uber app deactivated. In
addition, drivers have access to an online
video that describes best practices for
accommodating passengers with disabilities.
Describe plans for addressing 1.f.1-2 below.
1. CAT Connect will develop online materials to
explain the program, including instructions
on how to use it, to be disseminated to
eligible passengers. We will also develop a
fact sheet to be used by customer service
representatives when explaining the
program over the phone when passengers
call to make a conventional reservation. The
fact sheet will be available in multiple
languages (English, Spanish, Creole) and can
also be mailed to eligible passengers. There
is also an expectation that the provider will
help with the marketing of the program to
ensure success.
The Uber Transit team has a dedicated
marketing manager who will work with
Collier County to promote service through
Uber channels and local channels. This
includes emails, in-app sends, and a
marketing playbook Uber will provide to
ensure program users know how to use the
services they’re providing. The Uber Transit
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
8
g. Ensure quality assurance procedures are
developed and in place prior to project
implementation.
1. Describe measures to ensure the
transportation voucher program is
operated in the most safe and responsive
manner.
Team will work with Collier County to
ensure any program marketing dollars we
spend are paired with high-quality content
we develop to promote our program.
2. The information developed to market the
program will be placed on the agency
website and Facebook Page. The Fact Sheet
will be distributed to eligible passengers via
mail and will be available at out office.
Customer Service Representatives will also
be required to advise callers about the
program when they call to make
reservations for the standard paratransit
service.
Describe plans for addressing 1.g.1 below.
1. The provider will be required to have a
system for monitoring the trips that are
being provided so that we can ensure the
safety and responsiveness for passengers.
Testing of the system and the reporting
capability will be conducted prior to
implementation.
The TNC Partner, Uber, is highly committed
to safety. Safety is built into the Uber
experience through three channels: safety
features in the app, strong community
guidelines, and a specially trained support
team, who are available 24/7, to deal with
any questions or safety concerns.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
9
Every Uber Rider app has a Safety Toolkit
which includes features such as the
‘emergency help button’ and the ‘share my
trip’ feature. Using the emergency help
button, Customers will be able to contact
emergency services (911) via the app. If a
customer activates the emergency button,
they will also receive a message from Uber’s
Incident Response Team who will triage the
incident accordingly based on the
information provided.
Uber enforces strict Community Guidelines
to keep rides safe and comfortable. They do
not tolerate unprofessional behavior like
inappropriate physical contact or verbal
aggression. Any behavior involving violence,
sexual misconduct, harassment,
discrimination, or illegal activity while using
the Uber apps can result in the immediate
loss of access to the Uber apps.
The same professionalism and attention to
safety will be required from the Taxi
Company hired to provide WAV trips.
The County will also do our due diligence to
check references with other jurisdictions to
evaluate their experience with the provider.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
10
2. Implement all procedures and deliver
transportation voucher services.
a. Submit bi-monthly record of travel trips
provided.
January 2021 –
September 2021
Describe plans for addressing 2.a. below.
CAT Connect will maintain records of all the
trips that the providers makes. The records will
include the origin and destination for each trip,
the name of the passenger, driver information
and the trip request time, the pick-up time and
the drop-off time.
The timely performance of the service will be
monitored, and any corrective action will be
noted to the provider when applicable.
3. Evaluate project effectiveness.
a. Ensure a customer service program is
developed and includes a complaint
resolution and grievance process and
assesses customer satisfaction.
1. Describe the proposed complaint
resolution and grievance process.
2. Develop surveys and an interview
process to evaluate effectiveness of the
project and satisfaction with
transportation services, including driver
awareness and trip reservation process.
3. Implement surveys and interview
process with riders.
January 2021 –
September 2021
Describe plans for addressing 3.a.1.-3. below.
1. CAT Connect will utilize its current complaint
procedures to address customer complaints.
Passenger unsatisfied with any aspect of their
service may contact CAT Connect via phone
or mail. Complaints may also be registered
on the website on a form provided. All
complaints are taken very seriously and
addressed within 2 business days. If the
complaint cannot be completely investigated
within that time frame the customer must be
contacted to be advised that we are still
investigating the complaint. If the customer is
still not satisfied with the resolution, they are
provided information of the Grievance
process which include an evaluation by
management and final determination by the
Local Coordinating Board (LCB).
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
11
b. Evaluate overall project and submit a final
report to minimally include:
1. Evidence of services provided.
2. Customer satisfaction with
transportation services, including driver
awareness and trip reservation process.
3. Key measures of service provisions
a. Number of trips provided
b. Purpose/types of trips
c. Cost of trips and analysis of cost
savings
d. Number of unique riders
(Interim deliverable reports will convey
ongoing progress toward evaluation
components, particularly regarding key
measures of service provisions.)
2. Collier County has a surveying tool called
Qualtrics that will be used to survey users of
the service to determine satisfaction and
effectiveness. As part of the Division’s
auditing process, drivers will be interviewed
to determine awareness of the program
requirements as a method of evaluating how
the program is being implemented.
3. The survey and interviewing process will be
implemented after 3-months that the
program has been put in place.
Describe plans for addressing 3.b.1.-3 below.
1. As part of the monthly reimbursement
request, all the back-up information showing
the trips provided will be submitted to the
FDDC as evidence that the service is being
provided. Any media produced after the
implementation of the project will also be
provided to FDDC as further evidence of the
program implementation.
2. The results of surveys conducted with
passengers and drivers will be tabulated and
evaluated. The findings from those surveys
will been accumulated and provided to FDDC
for their records.
3. The following information will be collected
and evaluated to determine the effectiveness
of the program:
a. Number of trips provided
b. Purpose/type of trips
c. Cost of trip and analysis of cost
savings
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
12
d. Number of unique riders
4. Develop and submit a long-term sustainability
plan to continue the voucher program beyond
Council funding.
a. Describe preliminary plans for long-term
sustainability.
April 2021 Describe plans for addressing 4.a.1 below.
1. Collier County allocates local funding for the
ADA paratransit service. After evaluating the
cost associated with providing the voucher
program and comparing it to the cost for
providing the service conventionally, we
expect substantial per-trip cost savings and
growth in the total number of rides provided
through the program. Savings related with
providing paratransit trips through a TNC and
taxi company will be shifted to maintain and
expand the voucher program. By funding
Collier County’s exploration of this voucher
program, the Florida Developmentally
Disabilities Council will allow us to examine
whether it is appropriate to revamp the way
we provide paratransit service in the future.
Our goal is to continually improve the
mobility of our riders and expand accessibility
within the county. We believe this program
can help us improve our service while
working toward more efficiency within our
existing program budget.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
13
CAT Connect Transit Voucher Program
Project Description
Collier Area Transit (CAT) is excited about piloting a project that will extend access to employment and life sustaining venues for the
developmentally disadvantaged population in Collier County. The proposed Project will consist of an on-demand transportation system that will
utilize Transportation Network Companies (TNC) and/or Taxicab companies to extend the reach of our existing paratransit network. CAT Connect
plan on creating a voucher program that include specific parameters and restrictions, including subsidy amount, location, dates and times, etc. to
ensure the program is innovative and cost effective.
The plan is to partner with Uber who has several tools available to CAT Connect to manage our paratransit program and extend the accessibility
to the developmentally disabled population: Transit Vouchers, Profiles, Uber Central, and Fleet Management. We have selected the Profiles and
Uber Central tools because they will best meet our needs. An overview of their functionality has been provided below, as well as suggestions on
how they could be implemented to support agency programs.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
14
Profiles
The Profiles tool provides agencies with the ability to provide subsidies to specific users within specific locations, times o f day, days of the week
and/or for a specific amount.
The Profiles tool includes a program eligibility management system that allow direct management by CAT Connect within the self-service Profiles
dashboard. Approved riders are sent an email to provide them access to subsidized or free trips as part of the program you design. Once a rider
joins the program, Profiles enables access to subsidized trips that meet the program requirements. If a rider’s trip does not meet the requirements,
the subsidy will not apply.
CAT Connect will have the ability to set up a program aligned to our needs, including setting prices based on eligibility. The flat fare will be paid by
the passenger for the initial $4 of the trip. Agency staff will also be able to monitor program settings at both a trip level and in aggregate.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
15
Uber Central
Uber Central is a web-based booking tool that will allow CAT Connect to arrange and pay for on-demand rides—both Uber rides and third-party
operators that have been onboarded—on behalf of passengers. Agency staff can also monitor active trips in real-time.
Agencies can use the dashboard to order trips on behalf of riders who need access to an on-demand trip. Customers need to provide their name,
mobile phone number and destination. They do not need to have an Uber account.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
16
How the program would work for the end user
Most passengers will install an app on their mobile device. If this is not available, passengers can call the CAT Connect office to request a trip on
the voucher program and CAT will book the trip for the passenger. In this instance, passengers will receive SMS text messages or a call to their
landline. The SMS test or call will provide passengers with all relevant pick-up information (e.g. RTA, driver name, car type, etc.) For smartphone
users, the passenger will follow the following steps:
● Input trip information: Passenger opens the app, confirms their GPS-determined pick-up location or enter an exact pick-up address and
inputs their destination.
● Confirm Trip Detail: Once a passenger enters their pick-up and destination details, the app automatically displays the trip fare the
passenger would be responsible for under the program after the subsidy.
● Route information: Before submitting a trip request, the passenger will see a forecasted route and trip duration based on real-time
traffic.
● Book the trip: Once a trip request is submitted, the passenger receives a prompt letting them the driver’s first name, photograph, rating,
vehicle type, license plate number, and location which can be tracked in real time en route to the passenger’s pick-up location.
● Additional Information: When the driver is arriving, the passenger receives a text to prepare to meet them and begin the trip promptly.
Additionally, the rider is provided a notification when the trip is about to end.
If a customer and driver cannot locate each other, they can either call or text each other within the app.
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
17
How the Provider would interface with CAT Connect
Ideally, the provider will have a system which allows CAT Connect to monitor the program on a dashboard so that staff can see the number of
vouchers that have been redeemed or used and the total amount spent on the voucher program. This will include working with o ur team to
configure the program and providing the data we would need to monitor the program success. We would like the ability to have self-service
dashboards that will assist with this process, giving us access to the data you need when you need it.
CAT Connect should have access to the following data, but not limited to:
● Number of trips provided
● Trip Purpose/Type
● Trip Origin/Destination
● Cost per trip
● Cost saving analysis
● Number of unique riders
You can find examples of our dashboards below:
Proposal Submitted By: _Collier Area Transit________
18
Difference
Months FY19 FY20 FY18 & 19 FY19 FY20 FY19 FY20 FY19 FY20 FY19 FY20 FY19 FY20
October 76,272 73,587 -3.52%122,998.70$ 133,326.68$ 107,980.29 117,960.10 6,268.21 6,305.36 12.17 11.67 0.71 0.62 951 LLC Bulk passes $58804
November 66,045 67,010 1.46%73,094.01$ 68,836.87$ 111,969.56 109,585.31 5,801.00 5,821.08 11.39 11.51 0.59 0.61
December 64,141 65,998 2.90%68,294.06$ 69,602.31$ 118,043.23 114,311.37 6,171.88 6,073.39 10.39 10.87 0.54 0.58
January 67,088 71,003 5.84%74,518.94$ 73,754.31$ 119.719.86 115,783.96 6,254.96 6,129.42 10.73 11.58 0.54 0.61
February 66,564 69,542 4.47%69,840.67$ 71,756.97$ 112,452.89 113,269.55 5,916.41 5,981.09 11.25 11.63 0.59 0.61
March 71,032 54,108 -23.83%74,224.73$ 47,555.04$ 123.792.87 117,540.85 6,507.57 6,230.80 10.92 8.68 0.59 0.46
April 69,832 27,696 -60.34%70,713.24$ -$ 121,201.96 117,916.23 6,381.48 6,053.97 10.94 4.57 0.58 0.23
May 67,513 37,342 -44.69%71,475.61$ -$ 113,833.48 116,453.60 6,087.12 6,060.70 11.09 6.16 0.59 0.32
June 63,451 43,288 -31.78%68,934.25$ -$ 111,342.20 117,906.80 5,967.85 6,201.78 10.63 6.98 0.57 0.37
July 63,053 46,249 -26.65%67,901.70$ -$ 113,833.48 117,227.30 6,086.29 6,204.84 10.36 7.45 0.55 0.39
August 66,775 44,407 -33.50%68,539.24$ 51,671.09$ 117,838.55 116,714.55 6,297.60 6,118.54 10.60 7.26 0.57 0.38
September 63,653 42,198 -33.71%67,394.70$ 107,221.15$ 107,337.13 112,566.38 5,756.67 5,935.96 11.06 7.11 0.59 0.37 951 LLC Bulk passes $58804
Total 805,419 642,428 -20%897,929.85$ 623,724.42$ 1,135,832.77 1,387,236.00 73,497.04 73,116.93 10.96 8.79 0.58 0.46
128,354.00
Months On-Time Late Early On-Time Late Early On-Time Late Early
October 77.2 20.1 2.6 84.9 14.4 0.8
November 77 18.6 4.4 83.5 14.8 1.6
December 82.7 13.8 3.6 86.4 1.7
January 80.5 16.4 3.1 84.5 1.6
February 78.7 18.3 3 83.6 15.1 1.3
March 80.1 17 2.9 85 13.2 1.8
April 74.8 21.4 3.8 87 10.9 2.1 `
May 80.4 14.3 5.2 85.5 12.5 2
June 84.2 12.5 3.2 89.5 8.6 1.9
July 86.8 10.8 2.4 90.1 7.9 1.9
August 86.4 12 1.7 88.9 9.8 1.3
September 86.3 12.5 1.1 86.1 12.2 1.7
System Total
Passengers Per
Revenue Mile
FY18 FY19
Passengers Revenue Revenue Miles Revenue Hours Passengers Per
Revenue Hours
FY20