HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-09-26 - AGENDA REPORTS - FREEDOM FOR SENIORS PGM (2)CONSENT CALENDAR
DATE:
SUBJECT:
DEPARTMENT:
Agenda Item:_ 13_
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
City Manager Approval:
Item to be presented by:
September 26, 2006
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THREE-MONTH TRANSIT PILOT PROGRAM - FREEDOM FOR
SENIORS
Administrative Services
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council approve FREEdom for Seniors, a three-month pilot program, which will provide
fixed -route fares at no cost during all hours of local transit operation for seniors ages 60 and
above.
BACKGROUND
The primary goal of the FREEdom for Seniors program is to transition ambulatory seniors from
the costly paratransit service to Santa Clarita's fixed -route network, thereby increasing capacity
aboard the paratransit system for non-ambulatory residents and a possible cost savings to the
City.
In August of 2001, City Council approved the increase of Transit fixed -route senior fare from
$.25 to $.50. Since the adjustment, the fare for seniors ages 60 and above has remained $.50.
Although the rates have remained the same since 2001, there has been a growing demand and
increase in cost for paratransit service.
From May to July 2006, Santa Clarita Transit's fixed -route system provided 29,673 senior and
disabled trips. During this same period, Santa Clarita Transit's Dial -A -Ride program provided
17,322 trips, an average of 5,774 per month.
During this same period, the average subsidy per passenger (i.e., total cost of providing the trip
minus fare collected) aboard the Dial -A -Ride program was $29.29 per trip. At this cost, the
FREEdom for Seniors pilot program would have to transition approximately 169 of the average
5,774 trips per month from the Dial -A -Ride program to the fixed -route system to break even.
We believe this to be an achievable target, producing a benefit for our seniors and reduced
operating costs for our Dial -A -Ride program.
If approved, seniors age 60 and above will be able to board any local transit -fixed route free of
charge. This program is not designed to replace the Dial -A -Ride program, but to offer a
cost-effective alternative that does not require a reservation.
Staff would promote this free alternative to seniors by using outreach at the senior center, media
releases, and informing potential candidates of the program when they call to make Dial -A -Ride
reservations.
ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS
Other action as determined by the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
The loss of farebox revenue for this program is estimated to be $14,837 over a three-month
period in account #801-6301 "Farebox Revenues." Adjustments will not be made at this time.
ATTACHMENTS
None.