76281FD5B2826C94872588C300508FB5 Hearing Summary CLICS/CLICS2022A/commsumm.nsf PUBLICBILL SUMMARY For PRESENTATION FROM REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION DISTRICTINTERIM COMMITTEE TRANSPORTATION LEGISLATION REVIEW COMMITTEEDate Sep 20, 2022 Location Old State Library Presentation from Regional Transportation District - Committee Discussion Only Attachment Tag File Name Attachment A http://www2.leg.state.co.us/CLICS/CLICS2022A/commsumm.nsf/0/D77FDCB559C6...$File/AttachmentARTD Presentation.pdf?OpenElement AttachmentARTD Presentation.pdf 08:39:59 AM Debra Johnson, General Manager, and Vince Buzek, Board Chair, representing the Regional Transportation District (RTD) presented an update to the committee (Attachment A). 08:41:15 AM Mr. Buzek provided introductory remarks and a history of the organization. Ms. Johnson provided information on the strategic plan, employees, the transit environment, the zero fare program, the system optimization plan, and the fare study. 08:44:48 AM Ms. Johnson detailed RTD's strategic plan, including RTD's work as a community partner; the importance of employee ownership; public funding; and focusing on the value of service provided, rather than ridership volume. 08:47:59 AM Ms. Johnson talked about employment concerns, including an employee shortage, as well as a collective bargaining agreement that includes a salary increase. 08:50:44 AM Ms. Johnson discussed the environment on public transit and at stations. She indicated that RTD is working through issues at Denver Union Station in collaboration with the City and County of Denver. 08:52:40 AM Ms. Johnson talked about crime prevention at stations through the creation of an environment that promotes transportation activities. She talked about cooperation between multiple jurisdictions to bolster security. 08:54:32 AM Ms. Johnson discussed RTD transit impact teams as a complement to current solutions and the provision of mental health and homeless outreach, as well as community outreach. 08:56:15 AM Ms. Johnson talked about the Zero Fare for Better Air program, implemented in August to reduce emmissions from single occupancy vehicles. Ms. Johnson discussed involvement with community groups and indicated that a report on the program would be forthcoming, including data and community surveys. 09:00:23 AM Ms. Johnson discussed the system optimization plan which optimizes the transit network for a particular area, prioritizing needs with social equity in mind. She indicated that RTD is improving cost efficiency with state of good repair prioritized. 09:02:14 AM Ms. Johnson shared that the plan focuses on a high quality transit network and corridors to maximize coverage through partnerships that bolster connectivity. 09:03:27 AM Ms. Johnson outlined the fare study, noting that equity is an important focus. She discussed an alignment of fares with services, as well as the complexity of the system, in determining fares. Ms. Johnson shared the scope of the analysis, including a review of fare structure with regards to Title VI, other agency fares, and community evaluation of options. 09:06:57 AM Ms. Johnson answered questions related to the environment at Civic Center Station, including the shifting of challenges to other locations as problems at Union Station are addressed. 09:09:21 AM There was a discussion about the fare system, especially how to switch from old to new systems so that customers will not lose funds. 09:11:32 AM Ms. Johnson discussed customer value over ridership volume, including achieving the best service; providing a user friendly fare system that is comparable to other systems; and offering services at a lower cost. 09:13:42 AM Ms. Johnson discussed transportation equity for riders traveling to the airport for work versus travel. 09:16:04 AM Ms. Johnson talked about infrastructure, including tracks and signaling at railroad crossings, and bus stops. Ms. Johnson indicated that RTD works with partners to maintain bus stops. 09:20:27 AM Ms. Johnson discussed RTD's six year transition plan to electric vehicles, including the creaton of a zero emission vehicle ad hoc committee. She said that the fleet currently includes 36 battery electric buses; but 17 vehicles were ordered. Ms. Johnson talked about clean diesel vehicles as part of the current fleet. There was a discussion about the lack of standards for vehicles in the transit space. 09:24:30 AM There was a discussion about comparing the Zero Fare for Better Air Program and tax credits for employers offering low cost passes. The fare study and equity analysis may provide additional information. 09:27:47 AM There was a discussion about partnerships, including equity and community input. Ms. Johnson highlighted regional counsels starting in 2023 to provide feedback.