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The Regular Meeting of the Committee for Transit Accessibility (CTA) was called to order at 1:05 p.m. by Chairperson Morrow in Building A, Auditorium, Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), 3331 North First Street, San Jose, California.

ROLL CALL

Members Present
Adam Byrnes, staff aide representing Cindy Chavez (Ex-Officio Board Liaison)
Emma Eljas
Sandra Gouveia
David Grant
Katie Heatley (Ex-Officio)
Troy Hernandez
David Julian
Martin Lasich
Laura Michels
Aaron Morrow, Chairperson
Thomas Slack
Barbara Stahl, Second Vice Chairperson
Barbara Rhodes, First Vice Chairperson

Members Absent
Linda Gallo
Marjorie Jensen
Allen F. Marcillet
Randy Tamez

A quorum was present.

INTRODUCTION OF AUDIENCE MEMBERS

Received introductions from the audience including: David Ledwitz, VTA Accessible Services; Steve Johnstone, VTA Operations Senior Management Analyst; Sam Lau, VTA Operations Deputy Director; Mike Hursh, VTA Operations Maintenance Deputy Director; Debbie Tidwell, VTA Operations; Walter Schinke, Silicon Valley Independent Living Center; Mark Thomas, VTA Operations Training; Joonie Tolosa, VTA Operations Analysis; Dan Smith, VTA Chief Operating Officer; and Patrick Griffin, VTA Customer Service.

Chairperson Morrow noted that Agenda Item # 15., CTA Transit Ridership Report would be presented before Agenda Item # 9., VTA Securement Task Force Meeting.

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS

There were no Public Presentations.

Board of Directors Report

Adam Byrnes, staff aide representing Cindy Chavez (Ex-Officio Board Liaison) stated that at the July 12, 2006 CTA Meeting he reported that the Board approved the Expenditure Plan, which included a Senior/Disabled Program.  Mr. Byrnes commented that Jim Lawson, Government Affairs Manager, is scheduled to provide an update on the Senior/Disabled Program at the October 11, 2006 CTA Meeting, which would provide the Committee with the opportunity to provide input related to the Senior/Disabled Program.

Mr. Byrnes reported that at the August 3, 2006 Board of Directors Meeting, the Board approved a one year pilot program to implement a new express route from Monterey to San Jose.  The express bus service will be known as Monterey – Salinas Transit (MST) Line 55 and will begin service on August 28, 2006.  MST Line 55 will be operated and maintained by MST.  A One-Way Zone trip fare is $8.00, Super Day Pass fare is $9.00, and an All-Zone Monthly Pass fare is $122.00.

Sam Lau, VTA Operations Deputy Director, indicates that the new express bus service would operate seven days a week with three round trips each day.   One trip during the morning commute, one trip during mid-day, and a third trip during the evening commute.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl asked if the service has specified areas for people in mobility devices.  Mr. Lau responded that the MST is operating the service and staff will follow up to provide the information to the Committee.

Member Michels asked about the drop off location point in San Jose.  Mr. Byrnes responded that he and Mr. Lau will provide additional background information on the service and would forward the information to the Committee.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley referenced the August 3, 2006 Board of Directors Regular Meeting, noting the question was raised if the ECO Pass would be accepted as fare on the new express bus service.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley stressed the importance of the ECO Pass as it relates to university students and requested further clarification on the service.

Committee Staff Report

Camille Williams, Accessible Services Manager and Staff Liaison, referenced the
August 3, 2006 Board of Directors Meeting, noting that the Board approved a contract with the Hay Group to perform an Organizational & Financial Assessment to be completed on or before March 2007.  Ms. Williams stated that Aaron Morrow and the other VTA Advisory Committee chairpersons served on the technical evaluation team to select the consulting firm.

Ms. Williams commented that the National Transit Database (NTD) information that
the Committee requested would be forwarded to the Committee.   Ms. Williams indicated that a letter to the CTA is forthcoming addressing Terry Applegate’s comment at the June 7, 2006 CTA Meeting that VTA may have violated the Brown Act due to staff presenting information on the San Jose Grand Prix event that was not agendized.

Chairperson Morrow stated that the information requested by Member Grant regarding the system cost per total hours of other local transit agencies would be forwarded to the Committee.

Chairperson’s Report

Chairperson Morrow commented that he and Member Julian attended recent event celebrating the reopening of the San Antonio Light Rail Station platform retrofit project.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes commented on the grant application for the Remote Infrared Audible Signage Mobility Access Project (RIAS MAP) with the intent to make talking signs available throughout VTA’s Transportation System.  First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stated that the grant funding available for the project is $1.9 million.  First Vice Chairperson Rhodes expressed appreciation for staff’s diligent work to submit the grant application for the RIAS MAP.  First Vice Chairperson Rhodes urged VTA to be proactive in seeking and applying for grants and other funding sources to make transportation services more accessible.

Chairperson Morrow commented that he met with David Terrazas, Marketing Customer Service Manager, and Marilyn Torgersen, Customer Services Associate Management Analyst, regarding the process of the Customer Service CARE System with the intent to ensure that customer concerns were being addressed by VTA.  Chairperson Morrow stated that he was given a tour of the Customer Service Department and the CARE System process.  Chairperson Morrow commented that a power point narrative presentation on the CARE System process has been agendized for the October 11, 2006 CTA Meeting.

Member Grant requested that the CARE System process presentation focus on accessible services and complaints from the disabled community.  Ms. Williams responded that staff would take every accessible services complaint from the CARE System, whether it is via electronic mail (e-mail), telephone, or walk-in and follow the complaint until it is resolved.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes asked if the Committee would receive quarterly reports on the tracking of the accessible services complaints and resolution process.  Ms. Williams responded that staff would provide the Committee with the information.

Member Gouveia stated that the Committee has already received information on how the CARE System process works and requested that the presentation focus on the complaint follow-through and resolution process.  Ms. Williams responded, “yes”.

Member Grant expressed concern that it took a week to receive a response from Customer Service and the only information he received was the customer CARE number.  Member Grant stressed the importance for customers to receive information regarding the resolution of the complaints.

Chairperson Morrow referenced the Take One and expressed appreciation for the information on the implementation of the Mobility Securement Policy on January 1, 2007 and the 1-800 telephone number for customers to call to report non-operable lifts.

Member Grant asked for the 1-800 telephone number to report non-operable lifts.  Chairperson Morrow responded that the staff would forward the 1-800 telephone number to the Committee.

Minutes of June 7, 2006               

M/S/C (Gouveia/Julian) on a vote of 10 Ayes to 0 Noes to 1 Abstention to approve the Minutes of June 7, 2006.  Member Stahl abstained.

NOTE:    M/S/C MEANS MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED AND, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Minutes of July 12, 2006              

M/S/C (Gouveia/Julian) on a vote of 9 Ayes to 0 Noes to 2 Abstention to approve the Minutes of July 12, 2006.  Member Lasich and First Vice Chairperson Rhodes abstained.

The Agenda was taken out of order.

OTHER

CTA Transit System Ridership Report

Chairperson Morrow expressed appreciation to VTA for their diligent effort to ensure that customers were not impacted during the San Jose Grand Prix Event. 
Chairperson Morrow stated that the event ambassadors did an excellent job of providing information and assistance to the customers.  Chairperson Morrow noted that he did not utilize OUTREACH services at the event but noted that the light rail services were flawless.

Dan Smith, Chief Operating Officer, commented that VTA did utilize OUTREACH Services twice at the event and the transportation services were completed successfully.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley commented that OUTREACH Services worked collaboratively with VTA to provide transportation services to two mobility device users who typically utilize fixed route and are not OUTREACH customers during the event.

BUSINESS REFERRED TO COMMITTEE BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS/GENERAL MANAGER

VTA Securement Task Force Meeting

Steve Johnstone, Operations Senior Management Analyst, provided a brief overview of the VTA Securement Task Force Meeting.   Mr. Johnstone commented that the VTA Securement Task Force met once.   Mr. Johnstone referenced the January 1, 2007 implementation of the Mobility Securement Policy, noting that staff is preparing a public awareness campaign that would outline what the policy means.

Mr. Johnstone commented that both Member Julian and Chairperson Morrow participated in the photo shoot for the Mobility Securement Policy brochure that will be distributed in the coaches to ensure customer awareness of the new policy.

Mr. Johnstone distributed and commented on the Policy Statement for Mobility Aid Securement on VTA Buses.   Mr. Johnstone read the policy statement into the record: “Effective January 1, 2007.   All mobility devices must be secured on VTA buses.  VTA also recommends passengers in mobility devices use lap and shoulder belts provided.”

Mr. Johnstone stated that an overlay will contain the same information in Braille and be placed in the mobility device areas in all VTA coaches.

Mr. Johnstone referenced Member Grant’s concern regarding debris inside the portable track, noting that in all of the low-floor vehicles the operator has a manual ramp lift tool used to deploy the ramp manually and the tool works effectively for clearing the track.  All of the coaches will have that tool available so operators will have the ability to clear the portable track.

Mr. Johnstone commented that staff is working on an awareness campaign of the effective date of the securement policy implementation with brochures, car cards, posters, and an article, which is currently in VTA’s Take One brochure.

Member Slack asked about VTA’s securement policy and securement equipment. 
Mr. Johnstone responded that VTA has always had a policy of optional securement and would continue to encourage individuals in mobility devices to ride with their devices secured; however, the mandatory securement policy becomes effective January 1, 2007.  Mr. Johnstone commented that all VTA coaches have the same standard securement equipment installed in the vehicles since last year.

Member Slack asked how VTA would monitor the program in terms of problems, complaints, and compliments to determine if the program is working.  Mr. Johnstone responded that information is obtained through driver reports, defect reports, from the operators, and feedback from VTA’s Operations Control Center (OCC).

Member Slack asked if the CTA Committee would receive regular status reports on how the policy is going.  Mr. Johnstone referenced the August 10, 2005 CTA Minutes, noting that the Committee voted to recommend that the CTA Securement Subcommittee Task Force remain intact for at least one-year after implementation of the Mobility Securement Policy to monitor and address issues related to the implementation process of the Mobility Securement Policy.  Chairperson Morrow commented that the Securement Task Force would remain intact to monitor the policy until January 1, 2008.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl inquired if adjustments have been made to VTA’s route timetables to ensure that customers are not late for their destinations.  Mr. Johnstone responded both Member Julian and Chairperson Morrow have provided input over the past year on how long it takes to secure a mobility device in the vehicles.  Mr. Johnstone commented that the service-planning department is aware and able to adjust schedules as needed to address concerns.

Member Grant asked if the mobility device user had a Personal Care Assistant (PCA)   and/or attendant with them and queried who would be responsible to secure the wheelchair.  Mr. Johnstone responded that the policy reads that the driver is responsible to verify and or assist to secure the device.  The policy reads that the operator must verify that the device is secured because the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects the right of the customer to self-secure.  The policy was written to say that the operator must verify and/or offer assistance to the customer to secure the mobility device.

Member Grant asked in the event that the wheelchair becomes damaged who is responsible and how does the customer report the damage.   Member Grant queried if the PCA and/or attendant secured the wheelchair and the driver verified and the wheelchair is damaged would VTA take responsibility to repair the damage.  Mr. Johnstone responded that he would get back to the Committee with the information.

Mr. Johnstone responded that VTA would take responsibility for claims on the mobility devices.   Mr. Johnstone commented that VTA has a claims department that works with a claims adjustor and a third party administrator who will evaluate the issues and come to an equitable solution for all parties.

Member Grant asked how individuals would know that they could file a claim if their wheelchair was damaged.   Mr. Johnstone responded that individuals would know through the same method used for filing a claim that involves any of VTA’s vehicles. 
Member Grant stated that the disabled community does not advocate for themselves.  Mr. Johnstone responded that there is a process in place to accommodate anyone who has an issue of damage to his or her mobility device.

Member Grant asked if drivers have contact information available to give to the customer if there is a problem.   Mr. Johnstone responded that when there is a problem the driver gives the customer service number to the individual but if it is a claim issue then the claim is processed through VTA’s Risk Management department. 

Member Grant asked if a claim would be treated differently if the driver secured the wheelchair or if a PCA and/or attendant secured it and the driver verified.   Mr. Johnstone responded that he will get back to the Committee with the information.

2005 – 2006 VTA Passenger Survey

Kevin Connolly, Transportation Planning Manager, provided a brief overview of the
2005 – 2006 VTA Passenger Survey.   Mr. Connolly commented that the 2005-2006 VTA On-Board Passenger Survey is the first comprehensive passenger survey of VTA’s fixed-route services since the 2000 Survey.  Mr. Connolly commented that VTA conducted surveys in three separate periods beginning in October 2005 and concluding on March 2006.

Mr. Connolly commented that the 2005 – 2006 VTA Passenger Survey presentation was distributed to the Committee in accessible format and would provide a descriptive narrative of the presentation to the Committee.   Currently VTA is involved in several surveying efforts as a model research exercise leading to the Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA).  The Passenger Survey represents the transit market and existing transit riders and staff is currently engaged in telephone surveys on all the travel markets.  The final Passenger Survey would be presented to the Committee in fall 2006.

Member Slack inquired if staff could conduct a result comparison to similar surveys in transportation systems.   Mr. Connolly responded that staff is comparing VTA results from 2005 to 2000, so VTA is comparing VTA to itself five years ago.  Staff has not taken steps to compare VTA to other transit properties since that is the analytical part of the effort, which will occur in the near future then an update will be provided to the Committee.

Mr. Connolly referenced the 2005 – 2006 VTA Passenger Survey, Slide 1 – Survey Methodology, noting that the survey was conducted from October 2005 through
March 2006 where 13,718 surveys were completed with an overall response rate of
29 percent.   The Passenger Survey achieved a system-wide confidence level of 95 percent with a +/- 0.8 percent margin of error.   The Passenger Survey has 29 questions and divided into three categories: demographics, trip characteristics, and evaluation of VTA services.

Mr. Connolly stated that 30 surveyors performed the survey and were given instructions to survey riders and assist the riders if they required assistance with the surveys.  Mr. Connolly noted that the surveyors’ performance was evaluated in the field and on site on a daily basis to ensure that they were interacting in an appropriate manner with the riders.   Mr. Connolly stated that if surveyors were found to be interacting inappropriately or were not effective they were dismissed.

Mr. Connolly commented that the survey was offered in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese.

Mr. Connolly referenced Slide 2 and 3 – “What will the survey be used for?”, noting that the survey is used to gather information for the COA effort.  The Final Product includes Marketing and Customer Relations Strategy, Comprehensive Operations Analysis, VTA Model, Service Operations Planning, and Planning and Policy Development.

Mr. Connolly referenced Slide 4 – Key Findings, noting that the key findings of the rider profile was that 59 percent of the VTA riders are 34 years of age or older, 37 percent are Hispanic/Latino, 38 percent are employed full-time with incomes less than $25,000, 65 percent of the surveyed don’t have an automobile available for the trip, 75 percent of the surveyed ride four days per week or more, and 71 percent of the surveyed walk to the bus stops.

Member Gouveia inquired about the survey information related to riders with disabilities.   Mr. Connolly responded that the information would be provided later in the presentation. 

Member Grant requested that the presentation proceed to the information related to riders with disabilities since the CTA Committee advises the Board concerning accessibility issues and the disabled community.  Member Grant referenced Slide 24 – Service Evaluation, noting that 47 percent rated accessibility for disabled persons as good and queried about the number of individuals surveyed were disabled.

Chairperson Morrow requested that the presentation proceed to the survey information related to accessibility and the disabled community. 

Mr. Connolly referenced Slide 19 – Travel Characteristics, noting that the survey did not ask if the individual was disabled but asked what fare category did the individual belong to.   Mr. Connolly commented that 5.6 percent of the overall 13,718 of the people surveyed responded that they belong to the disabled category, which is 4.1 percent increase as compared to the 2000 results. 

Member Slack asked if the survey purposely did not ask if the individual was disabled or was it an oversight.  Mr. Connolly responded that it was not an oversight and the intent was to be consistent with past efforts.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley queried if the surveyors consider the OUTREACH eligibility card as the fare medium, noting that the Committee would be interested in knowing which fare mediums were counted in the survey.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley requested  clarification on how the fare mediums were counted in the survey.

Member Michels inquired about the rider demographics and asked if information was collected on women and children under the age of 17 years old.   Ying Smith, Congestion Management Planning Program, responded that the survey did ask the individual for their gender and 54 percent were male.  Ms. Smith stated that customers that were 13 years of age or younger were not surveyed.

Member Michels stated that many of the transit riders that are low income are women and children under the age of 17 years old, noting that this is important information to obtain.  Mr. Connolly responded that if the children were between the ages of 13 to 17 years old then they were part of the survey but were not surveyed if they were under the age of 13 years old. 

Member Gouveia stressed the importance of having information regarding women, children under the age of 17 years old, and ethnic communities since the information would be beneficial for grants.   Mr. Connolly referenced Slide 9 – Ethnic Background, noting that 37 percent were Hispanic/Latino, 28 percent were White, 20 percent were Asian, 10 percent were Black/African American, 3 percent were Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander, 3 percent were Native American, and 0.4 percent were Other.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes asked why the survey did not ask if the individual was disabled.   Mr. Connolly responded that the next On-Board Survey could ask if the individual is disabled.

Member Grant referenced Slide 24 – Ratings of Service Characteristics and queried if non-disabled individuals were allowed to rate how well VTA provides services for disabled individuals.   Member Grant expressed concern that the survey asked individuals who are not disabled to rate accessibility for disabled persons since they are not disabled. 

Member Eljas expressed concern regarding asking an individual if he or she is disabled on the next On-Board Survey.   Member Eljas stressed the need to be sensitive and careful if and when asking individuals if they are disabled. 

M/S/C (Morrow/Grant) on a vote of 10 Ayes to 0 Noes to 1 Abstention to recommend that the next On-Board Survey create a question that targets persons with disabilities with a sense of sensitivity.   Member Julian abstained. 

Member Grant recommended that the next time VTA conduct surveys regarding accessibility for disabled persons that the accessibility question be answered exclusively by the disabled community.   Mr. Connolly responded that staff could provide the information by cross tabs the disabled fare category by how they answered. 

Member Grant expressed concern and added that the data is deceptive regarding the survey information as it relates to accessibility and the disabled community.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes asked if the surveyed were given assistance with completing the survey form.   First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stated that she is ignored and passed over when using public transportation and therefore she has concerns about the quality and accuracy of the survey data.   Chairperson Morrow expressed concern on the method used to disseminate the survey on the bus.

Member Eljas stated that the PCA’s would be an excellent resource to ask survey questions regarding accessibility for disabled persons.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl suggested that the survey ask if the individual needs to use accessible services.

Transit Sustainability Policy

Chris Augenstein, Transportation Planning Manager, introduced Pamela Vasudeva, Transportation Planner III, who provided a brief overview of the
Transit Sustainability Policy.  Ms. Vasudeva commented that VTA is developing a Transit Sustainability Policy to provide a long-term financial stability strategy, which the VTA Board of Directors adopted in 2004.  Subsequently, the strategy was included in the countywide transportation planning process and adopted by the VTA Board of Directors as part of the long-range goals and objectives for the countywide transportation plan, Valley Transportation Plan (VTP) 2030 in 2005.

Ms. Vasudeva stated that the overarching goal of the Transit Sustainability Policy is to produce transit service that is well used, cost-efficient, operationally efficient, supported by local jurisdictions, and that meets market needs.   The Transit Sustainability Policy would build on several efforts including the Service Management Plan, the Community Design & Transportation Program, VTP 2030, and VTA’s Financial Stability Strategies. 

Ms. Vasudeva commented that the Transit Sustainability Policy would provide the framework necessary to implement existing and future transit services including Community Bus, local bus, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and Light Rail Transit, while the efforts are a work in progress.   In the upcoming months staff would be presenting additional information to VTA’s Advisory Committees. 

Ms. Vasudeva stated that the current schedule for the Transit Sustainability Policy would be forwarded to the Board of Directors for consideration in December 2006 and January 2007 timeframe.  The Transit Sustainability Policy is intended to guide the development and implementation of projects and services underway including the COA, new corridor studies, and bus and rail integration plans.

Ms. Vasudeva commented that staff looks forward to working collaboratively to produce the policy and guidelines to help Santa Clara County provide transit services that are sustainable and enjoyable to ride.

Chairperson Morrow asked how the policy would benefit the individual.  Ms. Vasudeva responded that staff is examining the existing system to determine the types of land use and characteristics that are located around the stations to better serve the region.  Ms. Vasudeva commented that staff would determine what types of infrastructure VTA would need in place to increase ridership and make it more enjoyable to use.

Community Bus Implementation Plan

Mr. Smith provided a brief overview of the Community Bus Implementation Plan. 
Mr. Smith commented that the memorandum provides information on the following four issues: Vehicle Procurement, Routes identified for transition to Community Bus service, Marketing/Branding of Community Bus service, and Fares. 

Mr. Smith commented that at the March 30, 2005 Board Meeting, the Board authorized the purchase of up to 25 gasoline-powered, small-capacity vehicles, and support equipment in the amount of $4,000,000 using a contract awarded by the
State of California.   The initial five buses were purchased to support the pilot program implementation of the Los Gatos Community Bus service, Lines 48 and 49, which VTA brought in-house on July 3, 2006.   The cost of each vehicle was $130,000 totaling $650,000 plus equipment, which included fareboxes, radio systems, and other items, totaling about $200,000. 

Mr. Smith commented that the Los Gatos Community Bus service has been successful and the two routes combined averaged 813 weekday passengers during the first year of operation.   The remaining 20 of the original 25-vehicle procurement were recently ordered and the expected delivery date is April 2007 with the in-service date of July 2007.  Mr. Smith stated that the 25 vehicles would constitute VTA’s Phase I Community Bus implementation.

VTA staff projects a need for up to 75 small-capacity vehicles to operate Community Bus services throughout Santa Clara County.   Staff has evaluated the commercial market availability of small-capacity vehicles that meet the demands of public transit operations, are ADA compliant preferably low-floor vehicles, meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements, and use gasoline/electric hybrid technology.  Given the limited availability of commercial vehicles, staff recommends that, in the near term, VTA continue to utilize the State’s contract to purchase gasoline-powered vehicles. 

Phase II, consisting of another 25 vehicles, would be ordered in January 2007 for delivery in September 2007 and would be placed in-service in January 2008.   Staff is presently identifying funding for these buses.  A recommendation to the VTA Board of Directors to authorize the purchase of these vehicles, with the known source of funds, would be forwarded this fall.     

Mr. Smith commented that the complete scope of Phase III, which could consist of the final 25 additional vehicles, would be determined in early 2007.   By that time, results from the COA would provide information on new and existing markets that might be appropriate for implementation of Community Bus services.  The next biennial budget would need to include funding to purchase these vehicles and for any service expansion, if identified in the COA process.  If these service and budget decisions are made, then the Phase III Community Bus implementation could occur as early as Fiscal Year 2009.

The implementation schedule for Phase III also depends on the commercial availability of hybrid technologies.   The expected life of the gasoline-powered, small capacity vehicles supplied is five years or 200,000 miles, which is significantly less than the 15-year and/or 600,000-mile life expectancy of a standard diesel bus.  Given the relatively short life expectancy of these vehicles and VTA’s expectation that hybrid technology would become commercially available in the next two or three years, staff is confident that VTA would be able to purchase this type of vehicle in the future. 

Mr. Smith commented on Routes, noting that while bus ridership is beginning to rebound and trend up positively, VTA continues to operate low productivity routes that fall below the service standards established in the Board approved Service Management Plan.   The resources saved by converting low productivity routes to lower cost Community Bus service could be reallocated to better-performing routes by increasing frequencies, or operating the routes earlier or later in the day.

A number of routes with potential for transition to the smaller vehicle Community Bus operations have been identified.   These routes would form the basis for the proposed Phases I and II Community Bus implementation, utilizing 50 small capacity vehicles.  A public participation process will be conducted in early 2007 leading up to requesting the Board to take action to approve the phased Community Bus implementation.

Mr. Smith commented on the Community Bus Implementation Summary, noting that Phase I with 25 Community Bus vehicles with a service start date of July 2007, Phase II with 25 Community Bus vehicles with a service start date of January 2008, and Phase III with 25 Community Bus vehicles with a service start date to be determined.

Mr. Smith commented that VTA’s Marketing and Public Affairs Department is developing a comprehensive marketing and public outreach plan that includes branding and a promotional program to support the launch of the Community Bus Program.   One overall branding scheme would be used for all routes and vehicles in the program.  The five vehicles being used for the Los Gatos Community Bus Lines 48 and 49 would retain their current look until these vehicles are replaced, rewrapped or repainted.  Certain routes, such as Downtown San Jose Shuttle (DASH), could retain their unique look based on funding support and community involvement in the service.

Mr. Smith commented that fares for the Community Bus Program would be applied consistent with VTA’s fare policy so regular fares will be charged and all vehicles will be equipped with fareboxes. 

City or community groups can contract for free-fare routes by subsidizing equally at least a 25 percent farebox recovery for that route.   This is based on a similar approach used for other jointly funded services, such as DASH, Airport Flyer, Sharks Shuttle, Great America Shuttle, River Oaks Shuttle, and others.

Mr. Smith stated that Los Gatos Community Bus routes were originally established as a free, one-year pilot program, which expired this July.   VTA staff is working with the Town of Los Gatos staff to develop a plan for charging fares on this service or obtaining community funding. 

Member Slack inquired about the Community Bus service routes.   Mr. Smith responded that the routes are fixed at this time with the exception of the shuttles.

Member Grant queried if the lift on the Community Bus was un-operable would a Transportation Supervisor be contacted to provide assistance to the customer.   Member Grant asked if the Community Bus service was under VTA or is it a separate service.  Mr. Smith responded that the Community Bus drivers would receive the same amount of training as VTA drivers, equipment would be maintained and serviced the same as any VTA equipment, and the maintenance department would be trained on the Community Bus coaches as staff has been trained on the other coaches.

Member Michels stressed the importance of air quality and asked why VTA is not using hybrid electric buses.   Mr. Smith responded that the hybrid electric bus has a terrible track record and VTA does not have confidence in the vehicle. 

Chairperson Morrow referenced the fact that the previous contractor damaged the Community Bus vehicles and urged VTA to pursue a claim for liquidated damages.   Chairperson Morrow asked when the damaged vehicles were scheduled to be repaired and returned to revenue service.  Mr. Smith responded that by the end of August the damaged vehicles will have a complete mechanical and cosmetic upgrade and be returned to service by September 1, 2006.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes queried about the cost of a regular bus, how many passengers does it accommodate, and how many miles does it handle compared to the Community Bus vehicles.   Mike Hursh, Operations Deputy Director, responded that a regular bus generally cost about $400,000 and the Small-Capacity bus cost about $200,000.  The Small-Capacity bus gets about 8 to 9 miles per gallon, while a diesel bus gets about 3 to 4 miles per gallon.

Annunciator System

Mr. Hursh provided a brief update report on the Annunciator System.   Mr. Hursh commented that in the past 90-days VTA has taken the following steps to ensure that the calling of the stops is in accordance with ADA guidelines: calling of stops reminder bulletins were issued to operators; bulletins were placed in operators daily schedule pouches to ensure 100 percent distribution, noting that calling of the stops is required by ADA and VTA operating rules; secured an endorsement memorandum from the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) in support of aggressive enforcement of the calling of the stops, rules, and procedures; and the ATU memorandum has been posted at all dispatch windows. 

Staff has required VTA’s OCC to periodically and randomly contact buses by radio to inquire and verify that stops are being announced.   Staff has dispatched maintenance quality assurance personnel to randomly sample and service buses to verify that the automatic announcement systems are working.  Mr. Hursh commented that VTA met with SamTrans, which has the same system and both have identified reliability problems that are being addressed by the vendor.  A software update was installed in two VTA buses this week and if successful, the software will be installed in the entire fleet in the upcoming weeks.

Mr. Hursh commented that engineers have identified that the volume could be adjusted in the high floor buses, so VTA has purchased tamper proof seals to prevent unauthorized volume changes.   Staff is in the process of installing the volume seals and estimates the completion in the next 30 days.  Staff has identified some buses with a lapel microphone feature, which when activated prevented the automatic annunciators from being heard.  This is not consistent with the lapel microphone design so it is currently under investigation by engineering staff.  Mr. Hursh stated that staff has reviewed 32-operator defect reports on the annunciators over a four-day period.  Based on a mechanical inspection, 20 of the vehicles were determined to have defects, and 12 were repaired and returned to service.  

Mr. Hursh stated that staff rode Line 81 to verify the calling of stops accuracy.   VTA’s next steps are to complete the software upgrade, continue randomly monitoring service to ensure that the announcements are made either by the annunciator system or operator, review the annunciator database to ensure that all the stops are programmed, and establish test routes within bus yards to routinely check the automatic announcements triggered by the Global Positioning System (GPS) without requiring a vehicle road test.

Member Slack queried about the corrective measures taken when operators do not call the stops.   Mr. Lau responded that the first corrective measure an operator receives is a “come see me notice” where a division staff member goes over the operator rules and procedures.  The second instance could warrant a warning or discipline.  Corrective measures follow a progressive discipline process including documentation on the operator’s record and may proceed to suspension. 

Member Lasich queried if there is going to be changes in the procedure of the calling of the stops since only a certain amount of stops are called.   Member Lasich referenced a lawsuit related to calling of stops and stressed the importance to call the stops for visually impaired individuals.  Mr. Lau responded that a good goal to pursue would be to call every stop but noted that there is a memory and technical capacity limitation.  Mr. Lau stated that VTA has over 4,000 stops in the system so it would be difficult to input every stop into every coach due to the technical limitations.  Mr. Lau responded that the ADA guidelines require that a major change in direction or major transfer points are to be called out but not every single stop.  Mr. Lau commented that the challenge is getting the equipment to work properly and a good goal for the future would be to have all stops called.

Member Lasich stated that he informs the operator of the bus stop where he intends to de-board.   Mr. Lau responded that operators are instructed that this service is part of the operator regulation.  Mr. Lau stressed the importance for customers to provide the information to VTA when reporting an incident to ensure that the incident is addressed.

Chairperson Morrow requested that Mr. Lau speak with Member Lasich after the meeting to obtain the information to forward his concern to staff to be addressed. 

Chairperson Morrow stressed the importance for customers to report the incident and provide relevant information to customer service when reporting the incident, such as the bus number or line route.

Member Gouveia queried about the memory and technical capacity limitations on the system.   Mr. Hursh responded that every VTA bus is programmed identically since the buses are not assigned to any particular line route.  Mr. Hursh stated that the stops to be announced are entered into every single bus.

Member Grant expressed appreciation for the attention Line 81 has received and suggested that a posted sign ask if the annunciator is working and if not then inform the operator.   Member Grant suggested an incentive be in place to solicit information from customers regarding the annunciators working properly on the vehicle.

Member Eljas inquired about the maintenance quality assurance check and asked about the results.  Mr. Hursh responded that one maintenance quality assurance staff member was sent out to eight different occasions, which lead to the identification of the low volume tamper proof seal.  Mr. Hursh stated that he intends to continue to send staff out to conduct quality assurance checks to identify issues that need to be addressed.  Mr. Hursh noted that a test route would be established in the bus yard to identify issues and concerns.

Operator Training

Mark Thomas, Operations Senior Management Analyst, provided a brief overview of the Operator Training.   Mr. Thomas commented VTA will have completed one-year of operator training on the securement equipment by the end of September 2006. 
Staff has reached 94 percent of the bus operators in VTA’s system.  Over the course of 10 to 11 months, VTA has increased the amount of veteran operator training up to a point where training is about six hours out of an eight-hour class. 

VTA offers the Verification of Transit Training (VTT) program an annual training of every operator, noting that Members Gallo and Marcillet and Chairperson Morrow have attended and have provided positive feedback on the training class.

Mr. Thomas commented that staff has been working to address training and customer service sensitivity issues through the VTT program.   Staff runs a curriculum for one-year but in the case of the securement policy, the training will continue through the end of December 2006 leading up to the start date of the securement policy.

Mr. Thomas commented that staff intends to continue with a certain portion of the
eight-hour class devoted to ADA regulations, sensitivity training, securement training, and customer service.  Staff is retraining operators that have been referred through the CARE System and working collaboratively with OCC and field supervision to develop consistent script for operators to address frequently asked questions from customers.

Mr. Thomas expressed appreciation to staff and the Committee for their diligent work to increase and enhance the level of customer service delivered to the disabled community.   The new securement equipment installed on the vehicles provides an incredible improvement and assistance in the training of the operators since the equipment is consistent.

Member Grant asked what operators are trained to do in the event that a mobility device becomes damaged through the securement equipment.   Mr. Thomas responded that the process is to refer the individual to customer service, and then the issue is referred to Risk Management.

Member Grant motioned that in the event of damage to a wheelchair due to VTA’s mandatory securement policy that drivers will have on-board and ready for disbursement claim contact information to the affected rider.

Chairperson Morrow expressed concern regarding the possibility of an adversarial confrontation developing on the vehicles in the event of damage to a wheelchair, which would negatively impact the other customers on the bus. 

Member Grant commented that wheelchairs are expensive and repairs are costly and noted that this is a significant amount of money for an individual living on a fixed income. 

Member Gouveia suggested that the claim contact information card be distributed to all individuals using mobility devices in the event that they may need the information at a later date and to bypass the possibility of an adversarial confrontation.  Mr. Thomas responded that a process is in place and noted that most of the coaches are equipped with Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) that would provide a record of what has occurred.

Mr. Smith requested Ex-Officio Member Heatley outline the process used by OUTREACH in the event of damage to a wheelchair. 

Ex-Officio Member Heatley commented that this issue is complex and depending on the nature and severity of the damage a transportation supervisor may be contacted since the wheelchair may not be moveable.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley continued that there may be instances when the customer may be transported but the wheelchair has to be transported separately.  There is an immediate need for management to step in to provide assistance and it is best to err on the side that any damage to the wheelchair on the vehicles were likely done by staff so staff immediately works to repair the damage.  Wheelchair manufacturing companies are fairly non-responsive to the individual trying to receive bids to have the wheelchair repaired, which is a challenge for Risk Management department.  

Ex-Officio Member Heatley offered to work with VTA Risk Management regarding the training needed to address the issues related to claims involving damage to wheelchairs.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley stressed the importance to follow up and contact the individual regarding the claim procedures and provide a substitute wheelchair if needed. 

Mr. Smith commented that VTA does not have a problem with damage to wheelchairs at this time nor does VTA expect to have one.  Mr. Smith stated that the process in place works, but if in the future it is determined that the process needs to be changed then those changes would be identified.  Mr. Smith commented that OUTREACH is part of VTA’s plan as a backup to provide transportation service for customers.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stressed the importance for the consumer to be aware of the process and procedure in the event of damage to a customer’s wheelchair so the damage could be repaired in a timely manner.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl stressed the importance for management to provide the individual with a substitute wheelchair while the damaged wheelchair is being repaired.   Mr. Smith responded that staff is not able to determine what type of wheelchair could be better, worse, or the same so OUTREACH is part of VTA’s plan as a backup.  Mr. Smith stated that OUTREACH has substitute wheelchairs available for temporary use while damages to wheelchairs are being repaired. 

Member Grant stressed the importance for VTA to offer resource information to individuals in the event of damage to a wheelchair.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that a claim information form would probably need to be reviewed by VTA’s Risk Management department. 

Ex-Officio Member Heatley stated that the majority of problems related to wheelchair securement would probably not involve major damage to wheelchairs.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley stated that in the event that there is major damage to the wheelchair then an established process is in place.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley stressed the importance to have a venue for the individual to be directed to in the event of damage to their wheelchair.

M/S/F (Grant/Gouveia) on a vote of 8 Ayes to 0 Noes to 3 Abstention to recommend that in the event of damage to a wheelchair due to VTA’s mandatory securement policy that drivers will have on-board and ready for disbursement claim information, information on resources available, and contact information for the affected rider.  Members Eljas and Julian and Chairperson Morrow abstained. 

Chairperson Morrow stated that an informational correspondence distributed to the customer is a good idea but noted that the issue is very complex and needs to be fully evaluated. 

Member Grant recommended in the event of damage to a wheelchair due to VTA’s mandatory securement policy that drivers will have on-board and ready for disbursement an informational card to the affected rider.

Chairperson Morrow queried about who would develop the informational card.   Second Vice Chairperson Stahl responded that Risk Management and Counsel would be responsible to develop the informational card due to the legalities.

Member Grant commented that it would be an informational card providing the claim contact information in the event of damage to the customer’s wheelchair on the bus.

Member Julian left his seat at 2:50 p.m. and the quorum was lost and
a Committee of the Whole was declared.

Member Eljas expressed concern and asked what happens if the wheelchair was already damaged before it was secured in the bus.   Member Grant responded that the driver would notice the damage during the securement of the wheelchair.

Chairperson Morrow requested that the issue regarding the process related to damage to wheelchairs due to the mandatory securement policy be agendized for future discussion.

Member Grant stated that VTA previously had a lift malfunction card that drivers distributed to customers and queried if the informational card could be

Member Julian took his seat at 2:53 p.m. and a quorum was declared.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley requested that the issue regarding the process related to damage to wheelchair due to the mandatory securement policy be forwarded to the Mobility Device Securement Policy Task Force.

Member Eljas referenced the Policy Statement for Mobility Aid Securement on VTA Buses notice and stressed the importance to have the information available in other languages.

NOTE:    M/S/F MEANS MOTION SECONDED AND FAILED.

OTHER (continued)

CTA Workplan

Chairperson Morrow provided a brief overview of the CTA Workplan.  Chairperson Morrow commented that the September 13, 2006 CTA Agenda would focus on the information regarding the National Transit Database (NTD) Reporting and Paratransit Services.  Chairperson Morrow commented that the October 11, 2006 CTA Agenda would include the Translink Presentation, a presentation on VTA’s website accessibility, and a presentation on the CARE System.

Member Grant requested that the CARE System presentation report focus on accessibility complaints.

Announcements

There were no Announcements.

The Committee of the Whole adjourned the meeting at 2:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,