HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-08-03-TAC-minTAC Minutes
Meeting Date: August 3, 2005
Attendees: Sara Arnold, Sally Castleman, Elaine Dratch, Bill Levison, Hank Manz, Francine
Stieglitz, Gail Wagner
FY2005 LEXPRESS Summary
Summary statements for FY05 ridership, revenues, and expenses were distributed. FY05 total
ridership was 45,755. In comparison to FY04, ridership increased 20,000 (four routes operated
in FY04). The Burlington B -Line also has a 6 -route system with a total FY05 ridership of
44,545 (a drop of 2,000 from prior year).
A FY05 summary applying a +4% error rate established in FY03 was also presented. Bill was
recruited to update the error rate in relation to ridership.
LEXPRESS Marketing
Sara distributed sample letters to submit a series of letters to the Lexington Minuteman. Sara
would submit the first, followed by a letter from Hank Manz. Sara hoped to recruit a parent for
the third letter and asked Gail to provide names of Lexpress supporters.
In addition to the monthly Minuteman article, Gail has coordinated with the Lexington Housing
Authority to have a Lexpress information table at Blood Pressure Clinics. The Housing
Authoirity assisted with publicity by placing a Lexpress flyer in each resident's doorway. A
Lexpress table will also be at the next Senior Center Blood Pressure Clinic. The Town website
banner reads "Lexpress Summer Service" and a pass application can now be printed directly
from the website. An announcement for Lexpress Pass sales was submitted to the Community
Cable TV station. Pass sales for July 2005 shows an increase of over $10,000 compared to July
2004.
LEXPRESS Transit Guide
Gail developed a prototype of a color transit guide that was reviewed and approved by TAC.
Elaine suggested incorporating a pass application or at a minimum, reference to the pass
application being found on the Town/Lexpress website. Given the cost of a Town wide mailing
and questionable public attention to bulk mail, it was agreed that the transit guide should be sent
with the October Town tax bill. Lexpress would be responsible for the cost of paper and color
printing. It is estimated that the cost will be $1,400 and will be paid from the Lexpress Gift
account.
Exterior Bus Design
Hank reported the Selectmen have no opposition to exterior ads especially the back window.
Gail expressed concerns that the exterior design is secondary to clarifying the permanency of the
buses designated by M & L Transit as the Lexpress fleet. Gail reported an increase in bus
maintenance issues over the past month. Sara is to reconvene the design group.
Dial -A -Ride Research
Elaine presented a detailed report on the Arlington Dial -A -Ride program. Financial questions
were raised and Elaine was to contact Arlington for more specifics. Woburn's program will also
be researched. Dial -A -Ride information is being reviewed by TAC in response to a
transportation proposal presented at Town Meeting by Ravi Sakhuj a.
New Town Manager
TAC intends to request a meeting with the new Town Manager, Carl Valente. Topics raised may
include FY07 budget including allocation of Parking Revenues.
Next TAC meeting: Sept 7 at 7pm, Town Hall, G -15