Committee for Transit Accessibility
Wednesday, May 12, 2004
1:00 PM
Auditorium
Valley Transportation Authority (VTA)
3331 North First Street
San Jose, California
Minutes
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CALL TO ORDER
The Regular Meeting of the Committee for Transit Accessibility (CTA) was called to order at 1:04 p.m. by Chairperson Julian in Building A, Auditorium, Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), 3331 North First Street, San Jose, California.
ROLL CALL
Members Present
Jeannette Bruntz
Emma Eljas
Sandra Gouveia
David Grant
Katie Heatley (Ex-Officio)
Marjorie Jensen
David Julian, Chairperson
Martin Lasich
Laura Michels
Aaron Morrow
Maryjane Naughten
Barbara Rhodes
Thomas Slack
Barbara Stahl, Vice Chairperson
Members Absent
Linda Gallo
Frederico S. Orillaneda
Marian Otis
A quorum was present.
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INTRODUCTION OF AUDIENCE MEMBERS
Received introductions from the audience including: David Ledwitz, Paulette Mulligan, and Natalie Wells, VTA Accessible Services; Carolyn Grattan Eichin, VTA Human Resources; and Duane Haugen, Interested Citizen.
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PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
Member Morrow expressed his concern regarding fixed route transportation automatic enunciators not functioning properly. Member Morrow requested that Staff address the problems with the automatic enunciators. Member Morrow requested an update report regarding the GPS Navigation System for fixed route transportation.
Member Jensen commented on walk smart use crosswalks for safety every time flyer and VTAs safety awareness flyer campaign is conducted at the Civic Center Light Rail Station. Member Jensen noted the concern of a client regarding public transportation is that customers who may be cited for illegally crossing the light rail tracks in order to have enough time to transfer and connect from bus to light rail service. Member Jensen noted the clients suggestion that light rail and bus schedule times coordinate in order for customers to have enough time to use the cross walks to transfer between service.
Member Rhodes made a formal request for an update on the GPS Navigation System and queried if the stop announcement system had an on/off switch.
George Tacké, CTA Staff Liaison and Accessible Services Manager, responded that at the April 7, 2004 CTA Meeting a verbal report was provided regarding an update on the enunciators. Mr. Tacké commented that testing of the new automated enunciator system is scheduled to start April 5, 2004. Testing of the system involves the vehicle operator to drive the vehicle while another Staff member rides the vehicle and notes whether the automated enunciator made an accurate announcement at the right time. If the automated enunciator does not meet the specifications then it is reported and the wave file timing is re-programmed and the system is re-tested. Mr. Tacké noted that a signal is transmitted back and forth to a satellite, which identifies a specific longitude and latitude position to determine the time triangular coordinates then the system announces the stop; however, if the system does not do that then it is a technical issue that will be addressed.
Mr. Tacké noted at this time Staff does not have a good projection as to when this is all going to be completed. Mr. Tacké added that there are seven groups in testing mode and the first group started the beginning of April 2004. Mr. Tacké noted in July the system will be updated to include additional service changes to routes and this will occur every quarter. Mr. Tacké noted that during the testing mode passengers might ride a vehicle that does not have the automated enunciators. Mr. Tacké commented on some technical issues with the speakers associated with the external wiring; however, added that these issues will be addressed. Mr. Tacké noted that the enunciator system does not have an on/off switch and the volumes are set to accommodate ambient noise levels; therefore, if the noise outside is loud then the volume increases. The enunciator system can be overridden if the vehicle operator uses the microphone button to make an internal announcement.
Member Rhodes queried if vehicle operators are instructed to call out the stops if the automated enunciators are not functioning. Mr. Tacké responded that the vehicle operators will continually receive the list of approved stops that should be called out in the situation where the system fails and noted that Staff is hoping that this is not going to be an issue. Mr. Tacké noted that the system is still in the testing phase; however, added that vehicles will gradually be implemented into service lines. Mr. Tacké suggested that CTA Members use the bus system when the automated enunciator system is in place because the vehicle has to be on a route in order for it to call out the stops. A demonstration of the vehicle is not possible within a parking area because the satellite is not going to be able to identify a bus stop to announce.
Member Morrow requested that Staff provide a list of when the service lines will be operational for testing of the enunciator system. Member Morrow added he would appreciate a preliminary list of the buses scheduled for testing to experience the system first hand.
Mr. Tacké responded that Staff would provide the list of first groupings and added that within a couple of months the whole system will be live. Mr. Tacké inquired as to which particular service line was Member Morrow interested in receiving information on.
Member Morrow noted his interest in any line in the testing group. Mr. Tacké noted that Staff will identify a test line near Member Morrows residence.
Member Rhodes requested that the testing group information regarding the enunciator system be sent to all the CTA Members. Member Rhodes added if a CTA Member is using one of the testing group buses then they will pay special attention to experience the system.
Member Michels requested that Staff reinstitute the monthly ridership report. Mr. Tacké suggested that the protocol would be that the CTA Chairperson designate a CTA Member every month to provide the report the following month. Mr. Tacké noted that the monthly ridership report will appear on the agenda and added that at the end of the report CTA Chairperson will request a volunteer to provide the report at the next meeting.
Member Eljas noted that it is a ridership report; therefore, it could be a ridership report on paratransit or bus.
Member Grant expressed his concern regarding customer service not having any information on the testing groups of the system and noted his appreciation to receive the testing group information. Mr. Tacké responded that the system is part of a project that has not been completed and added that Staff will provide the testing group information to the CTA Members.
Mr. Haugen expressed his concern regarding the enunciator system on the buses and noted that since the system is computerized it does not matter what route the bus is operating on since the computerized system sends out the route information. Mr. Tacké responded that every bus is capable of making the announcements; however, added that Staff will look into how the enunciator system operates. Mr. Tacké added that Staff will invite James Unites, Operations Planning Programming Manager, to provide an update to the CTA Members on the enunciator system within a couple of months.
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Minutes of April 7, 2004
M/S/C (Morrow/Gouveia) on a vote of 11 Ayes, to 0 Noes, to 2 Abstentions to approve the Minutes of April 7, 2004. Members Eljas and Naughten abstained.
Vice Chairperson Stahl noted that at the April 7, 2004 CTA Meeting Edna Pampy was asked to follow up with the three categories ADA requirements issues and concerns. Vice Chairperson Stahl noted ADA specifics regarding the three categories and added that Orthopedic Hospital Staff had different category information. Vice Chairperson Stahl requested that Ms. Pampy follow up with the three category ADA requirement issues and concerns and provide an update report to the Committee Members.
Vice Chairperson Stahl queried if Orthopedic Hospital is in compliant with the ADA categories.
Mr. Tacké responded that Orthopedic Hospital is in compliance with the ADA categories and noted that Ms. Pampy did contact Orthopedic Hospital regarding the issues. Mr. Tacké noted confusion regarding the terminology that Orthopedic Hospital uses to determine eligibility. Staff asked Orthopedic Hospital to determine eligibility using category one, category two and category three determination; however, Orthopedic Hospital is set up differently, typically they determine category eligibility based on cognitive, visual, or physical disability. Mr. Tacké noted Vice Chairperson Stahls concern regarding Orthopedic Hospital eligibility categories not being in line with the categories in the ADA; however, noted that Orthopedic Hospital eligibility categories are not inconsistent with the categories in ADA. ADA specifically says that an individual cannot get to the bus because of the disability, an individual can get to the bus but cannot figure out how to use it because of the disability, or the bus is inaccessible; therefore, the individual is eligible for Paratransit Services. Mr. Tacké noted that Orthopedic Hospital focus is on a physical disability that prevents an individual from using the bus, or cognitive issues that prevents an individual from getting to or using the bus, or a visual disability that prevents an individual from using the bus. Mr. Tacké added that category two is irrelevant in the system because all buses have lifts or ramps and added that Orthopedic Hospital is in compliance with the ADA categories.
Member Bruntz took her seat at 1:20 p.m.
Member Slack queried if it were possible to appeal the assigned category classification. Mr. Tacké responded that assigned category classification is not appealable; however, added that if the categories are used to limit or restrict access to service then a strong argument exists to review and appeal. Mr. Tacké added that right now there are no restrictions or limitations regarding the categories and once an individual is determined eligible for Paratransit Services they are eligible for services.
Mr. Tacké added that an individual can appeal a denial of Paratransit Service and a restriction of Paratransit Service. Mr. Tacké noted that the best thing to do is to obtain a copy of the ADA federal regulations with the previsions of ADA on transportation, which contains a lot of information.
Vice Chairperson Stahl noted that at the next CTA Meeting will provide and distribute copies of the ADA requirements to Committee Members as reference regarding the three categories. Member Rhodes noted that she would require the ADA requirements information in accessible format. Member Gouveia noted that she would require the ADA requirements information in large print format.
Member Eljas noted the concerns regarding the three categories and Mr. Tacké attempt to respond to the concerns; however, queried if Staff could address the issue.
Member Morrow reiterated the statement regarding Orthopedic Hospital having its own client evaluation system, noted the three categories of ADA and queried on whether category two had been eliminated. Mr. Tacké responded that category two is irrelevant because the transit system is accessible.
Chairperson Julian stated that not all bus stops and sidewalks are accessible. Mr. Tacké responded that category two is not used because there is always a category one or category three determination within the process; however, noted that there are occasionally category two issues within the equation.
Chairperson Julian noted that Silicon Valley Independent Living Center does not have bus stops or sidewalks.
Chairperson Julian noted a correction to the April 7, 2004 CTA Meeting Minutes and will locate the correction and forward to Staff.
Members Eljas and Naughten abstained from the vote due to their absence at the
April 7, 2004 CTA Meeting.
NOTE: M/S/C MEANS MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED AND, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
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BUSINESS REFERRED TO COMMITTEE BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS/GENERAL MANAGER |
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Trip Planning Program for Ineligible Paratransit Applicants
Paulette Mulligan, Accessible Services Staff, provided a brief verbal report on the Trip Planning Program for Ineligible Paratransit Applicants. Ms. Mulligan noted that the rider planning kit will be provided to customers who had applied for Paratransit Services and were found to be ineligible for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Paratransit Services. The inspiration of the rider planning kit project was developed in August when a new applicant applied for ADA Paratransit Services and was determined ineligible. The applicant filed an appeal regarding the ineligible status and underwent the functional assessment; however, the denial status was upheld. Ms. Mulligan noted that during the appeal process the applicant indicated that she had never used public transportation; however, would use the system if she knew the bus lines to take. Ms. Mulligan added that Staff assisted the applicant to locate the necessary bus routes to complete her trip and return trip home. Staff realized that there are individuals out there with the same issues and needs for transportation that can be met with fixed route transportation; therefore, the rider planning kit was developed. Ms. Mulligan continued and noted that rider planning kits were sent to applicants that were found to be ineligible for ADA Paratransit Services. A cover letter was included in the rider planning kit along with bus schedules for services located near the applicants residence and added that each address is checked and linked to specific bus and light rail stops easily accessible to the customer. Also included in the rider planning kit are light rail schedules, the guide to accessible services informational brochure, Regional Transit Connection Discount (RTC) card and application form and one VTA pass token that would enable the customer to travel the fixed route system for one day at no cost. Ms. Mulligan noted that 23 rider planning kits were mailed in April 2004 with a cost of $6.57 for the mailing and including the VTA pass token. Staff believes this small expense is well spent if it assists individuals to become independent riders on bus and light rail services. These rider planning kits will be sent out approximately 60 days after an applicant has received a notice of ineligibility for ADA Paratransit Services; therefore, to allow time for any appeal requests that may be initiated by the applicant. Staff expects to mail another 14 rider planning kits by the end of
May 2004.
Mr. Tacké commented on a new program being developed and noted that it is a
three-phase travel training ride the bus program that will be developed and implemented over the next couple of years. The first-phase is to reach out to customers who were denied eligibility for Paratransit Services and try to get them to use the fixed route system and apply for an RTC card. The second-phase is a very small program called the travel education project, which is a brochure that Staff will mail to new Paratransit Service customers who may be candidates for occasional fixed route services. During the second-phase Staff will remind the customer that their identification card is as good as a free pass and will offer free specialized trip planning services. The third-phase is the main program, which will be in development over the next year or two. The third-phase is actual travel training and will include orientation and mobility training and will focus on certified Paratransit Service customers. Mr. Tacké noted that the goal is to train interested Paratransit Service customers on how to use the bus on one occurring frequent trip and noted that it is a positive thing that will save money if individuals use bus service instead of Paratransit Services. The travel training ride the bus program is a community based program and will try to reach out to other organizations within the community with a mission of promoting independence and self reliance to initiate participation and partner with VTA in the program. Mr. Tacké added that additional information on the program will be provided in six months.
Member Slack queried if the program will be free of charge for the individuals being trained and if the Staff performing the training has been formally trained in mobility instruction. Mr. Tacké responded that the program is still in development; however, noted no intention of charging for the travel training and added that the travel training program Staff will be a mix of individuals. Mr. Tacké noted Natalie Wells, Management Analyst, is heading the program and has already started researching for the program and has collected quite a bit of information. Mr. Tacké added that the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) is working on a document that identifies other organizations involved with travel training programs in the community as well as the resources available.
Member Morrow noted his appreciation regarding the information provided within the report. Member Morrow noted his concern regarding the implementation of the travel training program and added that the Committee needs to precede and watch this program with caution. Member Morrow noted that the travel training program sounds good; however, noted his concerns regarding the program cost and time to develop the program.
Mr. Haugen noted his appreciation regarding the information provided within the report. Mr. Haugen queried on the applicant denials for Paratransit Services and what was the disability of the applicant who had appealed the denial.
Mr. Tacké responded that an annual report on eligibility and denial by disability category will be presented in August. Mr. Tacké noted his reluctance to discuss the details regarding an applicant and noted confidentially issues.
Committee Members noted that the customer is not being identified. Mr. Tacké responded that he did not feel comfortable discussing the details regarding the customer.
Committee Members queried on the disability of the applicant who was denied Paratransit Services. Mr. Tacké responded that he did not have the information regarding the applicant; however, noted that Staff will provide a report summarizing year to date data information.
Ex-Officio Member Heatley queried if the pass token was trackable and queried if the transition from Paratransit Services to fixed route service was trackable. Mr. Tacké responded pass token is not trackable; however, noted that a middle person in accessible services will be the point of contact to track the transition from Paratransit Services to fixed route service. Mr. Tacké added that Staff will create a database to keep track and follow up if the Paratransit Services customers are continuing to use the fixed route service. Mr. Tacké noted a possibility of some Paratransit Services customers contacting customer service directly for trip planning assistance.
Ex-Officio Member Heatley queried on the time and investment involved to recruit Paratransit Service customers to transition from Paratransit Services to fixed route service. Ex-Officio Member Heatley noted the challenge and responsibility to try to transition Paratransit Service individuals to the fixed route service and queried if this is the best route to go. Mr. Tacké responded that this is a good point; however, noted that it depends on what program referring to. Mr. Tacké noted if referring to the rider planning kit then it is a very low cost program to inform the customer about other transportation services available. Mr. Tacké noted that the travel training program will involve more; therefore, the program will be set up to work with a customer who volunteers to participate within the program and Staff will follow up to see if the customers are using the fixed route service; however, if determined that the travel training program is a failure then Staff will move on to another project.
Mr. Haugen noted his concern regarding the individuals denied Paratransit Services and noted the transportation impacts on these individuals due to the reduction in fixed route services.
The Committee reviewed and commented on the Trip Planning Program for Ineligible Paratransit Applicants.
The Agenda was taken out of order.
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Minutes of April 7, 2004 (continued)
Chairperson Julian noted a correction to the April 7, 2004 CTA Meeting Minutes and referenced page nine, paragraph eight, noting that $26 should be $22.50.
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Trip Planning Program for Ineligible Paratransit Applicants (continued)
Member Morrow noted his concern regarding the trip planning program and queried on how a program like this will work with the sporadic bus service in this county along with the continued service reductions.
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FY 2004 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report
David Ledwitz, Paratransit Management Analyst, provided a brief overview on the
FY 2004 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report. Mr. Ledwitz commented that on a quarterly basis, Staff summarizes certain Paratransit Service data in order to effectively monitor key performance indicators. Mr. Ledwitz noted that this report presents and compares summary information for the third quarter FY 2004 and FY 2003 and noted that the third quarter is January, February and March. Mr. Ledwitz stated that customer utilization of VTAs Paratransit Service continues to be strong with nearly 700,000 passenger trips provided during the first nine months of FY 2004. The cost per trip continues to decline as productivity improves and the late rate remains low and holding steady at approximately one percent of all trips. Average call waiting time is down even though the number of incoming scheduling calls per day remains relatively constant. Subscription Services are at the highest levels in the history of the program as more customers are taking advantage of this convenient way to schedule recurring trips. The average customer eligibility rate for new and re-certifying applicants remains at approximately 97 percent year to date for FY 2004.
Mr. Ledwitz noted that FY 2004 third quarter Paratransit ridership decreased by 10.4 percent when compared to last years third quarter with a total of 227,329 passenger trips provided. The number of same day trips provided increased by 42.8 percent during the same period. The customer trip late rate decreased by 46.5 percent compared to the same quarter lat fiscal year. The number of no shows declined by 15.5 percent during the third quarter of FY 2004 when compared with the third quarter last year. Mr. Ledwitz noted that this significant decline is attributable to increase in customer education and awareness regarding the impact of no shows and the introduction of the new no shows policy that went into effect in January 2003. The reduction in the number of no shows improves the operating efficiency of the Paratransit Service as it reduces travel delays experienced by customers thus reducing the number of vehicles required to provide scheduled service.
Mr. Ledwitz commented on the total paratransit expenses for the third quarter of
FY 2004, excluded capital costs, and decreased by 11 percent when compared to the third quarter last year. The average net cost per trip decreased slightly to $27.32 the same period last year.
Mr. Ledwitz commented on the broker telephone performance and noted that the number of scheduling calls per delay for the third quarter of FY 2004 decreased by 2.7 percent when compared to the third quarter last year. The average wait time for each scheduling call to be answered decreased 25.7 percent from 1 minute, 41 seconds to 1 minute, 15 seconds. The average wait time for each dispatch call to be answered decreased 14.5 percent from 1 minute and 16 seconds, to 1 minutes and 5 seconds.
Mr. Ledwitz commented on subscription service and noted an average of 1,422 subscription trips were provided per weekday during the third quarter of FY 2004. This average number of subscription trips represents 45.5 percent of total average weekday ridership.
Mr. Ledwitz commented on the ADA Paratransit Eligibility and noted that during the third quarter of FY 2004, Orthopedic Hospital conducted 962 eligibility evaluations with an overall approval rate of 95.8 percent. Mr. Ledwitz noted that the current FY 2004 year to date approval rate is 96.9 percent, which is relatively unchanged compared to the 96.7 percent approval rate during the same period in FY 2003.
Member Bruntz noted her appreciation for a very comprehensive detailed report. Member Bruntz queried on the eligibility certification and noted her concern regarding the reduction in new applicants. Member Bruntz queried if the reduction was due to the extra layers in the application process regarding the brochure. Member Bruntz queried if any data was available regarding the number of individuals who call for the brochure, the number of individuals who are eligible, the number of individuals who are not eligible, and what type of people does this comprise of. Mr. Ledwitz responded that Staff is aware of the concern and noted that information is available in multiple areas and multiple phone numbers are available. Mr. Ledwitz noted that a customer may contact customer services, accessible services hotline and Paratransit Outreach for information and added that a brochure is mailed right away, which details the accessible services of fixed route system and usage of Paratransit Services.
Member Morrow queried on the capital costs for Paratransit Services. Mr. Tacké responded that capital costs are included in the operating costs but noted that there are certain capital costs that are specifically removed and not included. Mr. Tacké offered to provide additional information regarding the capital costs for Paratransit Services off line.
Member Morrow commented on the Eligibility Certification Re-Certification Process and expressed his appreciation to Staff regarding the 95.5 percent approval rating and noted it to be a significant milestone.
Member Michels expressed her concern regarding the reduction in new applicants applying for Paratransit Services and noted that this issue needs to be tracked and addressed.
Member Eljas noted her concerns regarding the reduction of 61 percent of applications received and noted that this is not acceptable. Member Eljas requested that her comment regarding the reduction of 61 percent of applications received is not acceptable be reflected in the Committee Meeting Minutes. Member Eljas queried on the philosophy of Paratransit and why Paratransit is in business. Member Eljas noted that a philosophy and a focus need to be in place and that the brochure is one of the gates that should be eliminated. Member Eljas recommended in the form of a motion that the brochure gate be eliminated from the process of eligibility.
Member Jensen agreed with the motion and noted that this is a good idea that will probably save money by not producing the brochure.
Vice Chairperson Stahl noted the 40,000 brochures printed up and queried on the reevaluation of the usage of the brochures. Vice Chairperson Stahl added that individuals self eliminate themselves in the Eligibility Process by reading the brochures and expressed her support of the motion.
Member Slack requested clarification and the intent of the motion and queried if the motion was to eliminate the brochure, eliminate an unnecessary step in the process or to save costs.
Member Eljas responded that the motion is to eliminate one gate in the process of applying for eligibility.
Member Morrow requested more statistic and numbers before voting on the issue.
Member Grant noted his support of the motion and added that anything the Committee can do to streamline the process and make it less difficult for the individuals applying for Paratransit Services is beneficial.
Member Morrow expressed his appreciation of fellow Committee Members comments and noted his support to simplify the process; however, noted that the motion is regarding a policy shift. Member Morrow queried if Committee Members would show support of the policy shift at a future Board Meeting.
Chairperson Julian commented that this is to eliminate bureaucrats, bureaucratic processes and to simplify the process and added that this might be the key that will greatly change the outcome.
Member Eljas noted that she would show support of the recommendation at a future Board Meeting.
Member Morrow queried that the recommendation was a policy shift.
Mr. Tacké responded that the Committee approved the current process and noted that not every member agreed; however, the process was approved and then was forwarded to the Board of Directors in November 2002 and under Board direction the process was implemented in July 2003. Mr. Tacké noted that neither Staff nor the Board of Directors is asking for a recommendation to change the current policy; therefore, no one is asking this Committee to approve any changes to the policy. Mr. Tacké noted that the Committee can make a motion and the proposal will be forwarded to the Board of Directors or Committee Members may speak at a Board Meeting under public presentation. Mr. Tacké added that after the program has completed one twelve month period an analysis report will be conducted and the information will be provided to the Board along with the results of the survey. Mr. Tacké noted that at that point the Board may or may not request Staff to make changes to the process and then that is the opportunity to come up with new ideas and go through the formal process again. Mr. Tacké noted that neither Staff nor the Board is asking for modifications to the Eligibility Certification Program; however, the Committee can certainly make a recommendation.
Member Gouveia noted that the Committee may not have been asked to make an evaluation but it sounds like the majority of Committee Members believe a decision should be made on the process. Member Gouveia noted that the Committee accepted the process on a case by case basis to see how it went and it does not seem to be going well; therefore, the Committee recommends reevaluating the process again and would like to do something about it.
Member Jensen noted her support of the motion and noted that the brochures is probably the cause for the reduction in applications.
Member Eljas noted the comparison between FY 2003 and FY 2004 and would like to submit that in some future quarter the Committee will be comparing FY 2004 with FY 2005 and will see no drop in applications received; therefore, the process needs to be addressed soon rather than later.
Member Morrow noted his no vote on the recommendation and noted that he cannot support the motion because it is a policy change and cannot support it.
Mr. Tacké suggested a roll call vote.
M/S/F (Eljas/Gouveia) on a vote of 10 Ayes, to 3 Noes, to 0 Abstentions to recommend that the brochure gate be eliminated from the process of eligibility. Members Morrow, Slack and Lasich opposed.
Member Jensen commented that Member Lasich is unable to hear discussion or the motions at the Meeting and added that it is possible that things could turn out differently if this issue was addressed.
Member Rhodes queried if Staff could determine why the device is not working for Member Lasich. Mr. Tacké responded that this is another issue and added that Members cannot take issue regarding another Members vote regardless of what the circumstances are.
Member Rhodes requested that Staff ascertain why the listening device is not working; therefore, Member Lasich could fully participate.
Member Lasich left the meeting at 2:23 p.m.
Vice Chairperson Stahl noted that the reduction in new applications should be agendized for the next Committee Meeting due to the fact that Ms. Pampy noted that she would investigate why the numbers have decreased. Mr. Tacké responded that Staff is working on conducting a survey and a report will be provided at the end of the year.
The Committee reviewed and commented on the FY 2004 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report.
Members Gouveia and Naughten leave the meeting at 2:28 p.m.
NOTE: M/S/F MEANS MOTION SECONDED AND FAILED.
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Legislative Updates
Natalie Wells, Accessible Services Staff, provided a brief overview on Legislative Updates. Ms. Wells commented on H.R. 3550 passed the U. S. House of Representatives on April 2, 2004 and noted that the program is for a six-year period with a total of $590 million allocated to three different levels of population growth. Ms. Wells added that under the bill the new freedom initiative program will provide funding for people with disabilities for activities beyond those required by the federal ADA. Staff will provide information updates regarding this bill.
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Committee Staff Report
Mr. Tacké provided a brief update report on a telephone survey being conducted regarding individuals who requested a brochure but did not request an application. Mr. Tacké requested that Committee Members forward any ideas to Staff to determine why a customer would request brochures; however, did not request an application.
Mr. Tacké noted that language interpreters and AT & T contract services will be available to provide translation assistance with the telephone survey calls. Mr. Tacké commented on the Eligibility Process for Paratransit Services and noted that a program is in place to assist individuals in the process. Mr. Tacké noted the misinformation in the community regarding the Eligibility Process and noted the importance to provide the correct information to the public regarding the program process. Mr. Tacké invited the CTA Committee Members to participate in the Tasman East/Capitol Light Rail Stakeholders Meeting on June 18, 2004, at 10 a.m. to be held at the Great Mall Station for the pre-revenue service.
Member Eljas leaves the meeting at 2:34 p.m.
Ms. Wells commented on the Palo Alto Transit Center and Palo Alto Depot Project went out for bid and the contract will be awarded and forwarded to the Board of Directors for consideration in August 2004. Construction is scheduled to begin at the end of August and noted that Staff is working very closely with Marketing Staff to ensure accurate information on the re-routes during construction of the project. Ms. Wells noted that Mr. Tacké will be the point person to contact for information after June 25, 2004.
Mr. Tacké noted that at the May 6, 2004 VTA Board of Directors Regular Meeting the Board commended Outreach for 25-years of high quality and dedicated service to the community. Mr. Tacké announced that Ms. Wells was retiring from VTA after nine years of serving the public. Mr. Tacké thanked Ms. Wells for her diligent work with the public and the CTA Committee.
Ms. Wells noted that she has enjoyed her challenging work and expressed her gratitude in working with Staff and CTA Members. Ms. Wells commented on the accomplishments that CTA has made over the years and noted the importance of the Committee in assisting the Senior/Disabled Community. Ms. Wells thanked Staff and CTA Committee Members for the opportunity and experience in working together.
CTA Committee Members congratulated Ms. Wells on her retirement and added that she will be missed.
The Committee Staff Report was received.
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Chairpersons Report
There was no Chairpersons Report.
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Announcements
Ex-Officio Member Heatley announced the OUTREACH Celebration of 25-years of excellence in non-profit service to be held on Friday, May 21, 2004 at Hyatt San Jose.
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ADJOURNMENT
The Committee adjourned the meeting at 2:44 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Michelle M. Garza, Board Assistant
VTA Board of Directors
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