HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-06-21-TAC-min Transportation Advisory Committee Minutes
Meeting Date: June 21,2006
Attendees: Sara Arnold, Sally Castleman, Elaine Dratch, Bill Levison, Hank Manz, Francine
Stieglitz, Gail Wagner
Vehicle RFP for FY08
To develop an accurate FY08 budget, the RFP for Lexpress vehicles will be issued in November;
earlier than past years. Bill and Gail will lead the vehicle research effort. Selection criteria will
include: vehicle size, ADA compliance, maintenance record, State and Federal environmental
compliance. Other community bus services will be contacted to discuss vehicle and contractor
satisfaction. Additionally, the state office of transportation (EOT) and Community Transit
Association will be contacted for input. The current Lexpress bus contractor, M & L Transit,
will be asked for bus recommendations. It was noted that service is a major component in
selecting a contractor. To facilitate review of wording, an electronic copy of the past vehicle RFP
will be sent to committee members.
Farmers Market
The coordinators of the weekly Farmers Market have inquired if posters can be displayed on
Lexpress buses. Given the policy that only service related flyers appear on Lexpress without
purchasing ad space, a flyer cannot be displayed. However, it was agreed that free rides from
Depot Square on Route 3 to the Farmers Market with a return to Depot Square on Route 1 or 3
would be provided. This information can be posted on the bus and efforts to incorporate the
Farmers Market logo with the free ride promotion will be made. Gail will inquire if Lexpress
could have an information table at the Farmers Market on a trial basis.
Lexpress Ride Discount for TDM Contributors
Hayden Woods, an annual TDM contributor, inquired if a discount ride reduction program could
be initiated for Hayden Woods' tenants. Lexpress would absorb the discount. Based on existing
TDM agreements, in particular the Avalon Bay/Met State development, which requires the
developer to subsidize Lexpress fares in addition to an annual payment, a discount fare absorbed
by Lexpress cannot be pursued. Gail will notify Hayden Woods. A listing of TDM annual
projections will be sent electronically to the committee.
FY08 Budget
During the FY07 budget process, TAC raised two issues that would reduce the Lexpress budget.
These issues were the application of parking funds to support public transit, as done in past
budgets, and a shift of parking administrative staff costs from the Lexpress budget to the Parking
budget. It is estimated that half of Lexpress staff costs support parking administration. Neither
issue was explained to TAC's satisfaction. Hank is to look into both issues.
Revenue Bearing Accounts
With the anticipated TDM special zoning condition of$200,000 from Starwoods, TAC feels an
interest bearing account is of vital importance. No such departmental accounts currently exist.
Rob Addelson, Town's chief financial officer, has indicated that a supplemental agreement
between the Town and developer would be required to establish such an account. Gail is to meet
with Rob in the near future to discuss.
Next TAC Meeting: Tuesday, July 11, 7 pm, Cary Hall, Town Hall Complex, Reading
Room (lower level)
Prepared by Gail Wagner