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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 2b - Arcadia Transit Needs Assessment
DATE:
November 3, 2015
TO:
Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM:
Jason Kruckeberg, Assistant City Manager/Development Services Director
Philip A. Wray, Deputy Director of Development Services/City Engineer
By: Linda Hui, Transportation Services Manager
SUBJECT:
ARCADIA TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND
RESTRUCTURING PLAN FINAL REPORT
Recommendation: Approve the Report’s Policy Recommendations
and authorize staff to proceed with the implementation of the
recommended service changes
SUMMARY
In November of 2014, IBI Group, in coordination with Development Services staff,
initiated the Transit Service Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan. The scope of
the plan included a comprehensive evaluation of Arcadia Transit, including a community
survey, public outreach, analysis of transit needs, and recommendations for service
improvements. The Final Report has been completed, which includes recommendations
for changes to service to best meet the identified community needs, coordinate with the
new Gold Line train service, and provide a system that addresses the anticipated travel
patterns of both residents and visitors.
It is recommended that the City Council approve the Arcadia Transit Service Needs
Assessment and Restructuring Plan final report policy recommendations; and authorize
staff to proceed with the implementation of the recommended service changes.
BACKGROUND
Arcadia Transit began its operations on April 21, 1975. The program was initiated at the
direction of the City Council with the intent of creating a demand-response system that
would provide the amount and type of public transportation needed by individuals
traveling within the City. The system was designed to provide specialized services for
seniors, disabled, and for those individuals whose transportation needs were not met by
the fixed route services provided by the Southern California Rapid Transit District (now
the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority [Metro]) at that time. In
the early stages, Arcadia Transit service was delivered with several passenger vehicles.
Arcadia Transit Services Needs Assessment and
Restructuring Plan Final Report
November 3, 2015
Page 2 of 6
Over the years, ridership has grown steadily and new funding sources, such as the
County’s transportation sales tax measures, have become available. The system
continues to grow in popularity, with ridership growing almost 11% since 2010 and over
130,000 passengers boarding annually.
Recently, staff has been evaluating Arcadia Transit as part of the budget process to
determine ways to improve the service, which has become too focused on providing
rides for school-aged children. In addition, the recent Triennial Performance audit of
Arcadia Transit, conducted by Metro, found that the consistently low farebox revenue
demonstrates that the current service delivery model is neither optimally productive nor
efficient. For example, each passenger on Arcadia Transit costs approximately $11.55,
with the average fare collected being $0.69. While heavy subsidies are the industry
norm, Arcadia’s farebox recovery rate of 5.9% is significantly less than the average
recovery rate of 16% for the 17 municipal operators in the area. A fare increase or
additional marketing of the demand-response service may be of benefit, but neither is
likely to fully reverse the trend. As such, the audit found that the current service delivery
model is not sustainable and recommended that the City consider alternative models of
service delivery.
The Gold Line Arcadia Station, set to open in March 2016, will act as a transit hub for
Metro and Foothill Transit bus lines. It is also anticipated that the Gold Line light rail will
have impacts on the demand for Arcadia Transit service. Therefore, it is an opportune
time to evaluate the current service system, assess potential needs, and explore
alternate ways of delivering Arcadia Transit service.
On October 4, 2014, the Council approved a contract with IBI Group for the Transit
Service Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan. The scope of the plan included an
analysis of the current service, and an extensive public outreach component to gain an
understanding of the travel patterns and needs now and in anticipation of the Gold Line
operation.
DISCUSSION
As part of the service needs assessment, the consultant team conducted a review of
current Arcadia Transit performance, as well as community and stakeholder surveys
and public meetings. During the months of February and March 2015, a community
survey was conducted to better understand the community’s concerns and perspective
on potential improvements. The survey was available online and in print. A total of 157
responses were collected during a 30-day survey window. During the month of April, the
project team met individually with key stakeholders, including Santa Anita Park,
Westfield Santa Anita Mall, Methodist Hospital, the Downtown Arcadia Improvement
Association, the Chamber of Commerce, Arcadia Unified School District, Los Angeles
County Arboretum, Senior Citizen Commission, and members of the City Council. In
Arcadia Transit Services Needs Assessment and
Restructuring Plan Final Report
November 3, 2015
Page 3 of 6
addition to the survey and stakeholder meetings, two community meetings were
conducted.
The respondents who use Arcadia Transit are generally satisfied with Arcadia Transit
service, but the majority of community survey respondents indicated that their
preference is for a fixed-route service. In general, the stakeholders, especially the
business community and large employers, expressed the need for a more robust local
transit service that would connect the many attractions in the City with the Gold Line
light rail system, and thus help support economic development opportunities.
Representatives of many stakeholders, community meeting attendees, as well as
survey respondents expressed that the current system favors the student riders and the
need for a dedicated dial-a-ride service for senior citizens and people with disabilities.
Clearly, dial-a-ride service for seniors and people with disabilities is a key function of
Arcadia Transit and is a critical service provided by the City. It is important that this
service remain intact, and perhaps be enhanced through dedicated coordination with
Access Services in the City. In short, there is a strong community desire for changes in
the way Arcadia Transit delivers its service.
The report provides a detailed list of alternative transportation options, both to
complement the current system and as replacement options. These service alternatives
are provided as both short term and long term solutions. Based on the needs
assessment and alternative analyses, the report provides recommendations for
consideration within the current budget of Arcadia Transit. These recommendations are
complementary to each other and should be implemented together. In addition, they
are near-term strategies that can be implemented in time for the Gold Line opening on
March 5, 2016. The recommendations are to:
1) Eliminate general public demand-response service and reallocate revenue hours
to alternate service
Most of the general public ridership is students. This “school bus” service is a
wonderful service for those who use it, but it is unsustainable and does not meet
overall transit goals. The elimination of the general public dial-a-ride will impact the
students the most. However, this will free up transit revenue hours for a dedicated
seniors/people with disabilities dial-a-ride service and new fixed-route, fixed-
scheduled services. The introduction of fixed-route, fixed-scheduled services would
retain the higher grade/older students. Advanced notice of the service change would
allow student riders to plan for other arrangements.
Arcadia Transit Services Needs Assessment and
Restructuring Plan Final Report
November 3, 2015
Page 4 of 6
2) Maintain demand-response/dial-a-ride for older seniors and people with a
disability
Dial-a-ride services will be provided exclusively for seniors and people with
disabilities. A targeted marketing strategy will be develop to explain public transit
alternatives for the City’s senior population and people with disabilities, in an effort to
provide alternate mobility options. For example, the introduction of fixed-route,
fixed-scheduled (with possible route deviation) services will enable seniors and
people with a disability to travel with no advance booking requirement, facilitating
spontaneous travel. Coordination with with Access Services for additional service
for eligible riders to fill gaps in service will be included. Fare policy modifications
may be needed to address the difference in costs.
3) Introduce fixed-route, fixed-scheduled service
One of the new fixed-route, fixed-scheduled service will provide neighborhood
connectivity, targeting riders traveling within the City, providing connectivity to key
attractors and generators including residential areas and schools. Another new fixed
route, fixed scheduled service will provide Gold Line Station Connectivity targeting
commuters to/from the Gold Line Arcadia Station during peak commuting hours.
4) Introduce fixed-route/fixed-scheduled – trolley/shuttle service – to major
attractors
This service will focus on visitors and commuters using the Gold Line light rail to
patronize key destinations in the City. The new service will provide connection
to/from the Gold Line Arcadia Station with limited stops at the key destinations –
Santa Anita Park, Westfield Santa Anita Mall, Methodist Hospital, Los Angeles
County Arboretum and Botanical Garden. In addition, this service can be modified
to accommodate special event transportation.
5) Introduce supplemental operating contracts (i.e., rideshare services) to fill any
identified gaps
This will allow for obtaining rideshare services such as Uber, Lyft, etc., to fill any
identified service gaps. The additional help will be procured through competitive bid
processes in the future if necessary.
Arcadia Transit Services Needs Assessment and
Restructuring Plan Final Report
November 3, 2015
Page 5 of 6
6) Modify Fare Policy
The fare policy needs to be adjusted based on the type of service provided. It is
recommended that the general fare be maintained at $1.00 for the fixed-route, fixed-
scheduled services but offer discounted fare for seniors and people with disabilities.
Additional fare policy options, such as a fare increase for certain service and fare
subsidy program will be explored as part of the next phase of work.
Next Steps:
The next step for the implementation of the above recommendations is to undertake
detailed service and operational planning addressing the allocation of revenue (and
service) hours, routing, parameters for route deviations, and performance
measures/standards. Building on previous stakeholder consultations, the next step will
explore opportunities for collaborative arrangements in cost-sharing transit services that
may include sponsoring specific routes, hours of service, etc. Concurrently, a marketing
campaign for the new service emphasizing the community and economic importance
and benefits will be conducted.
The intent of this next phase of work is to implement new services by the opening of the
Gold Line light rail on March 5, 2016. This allows only a few months to complete the
detailed route planning, marketing, and installation of bus stop, signage, etc. Due to
this tight time frame, it makes scheduling sense to continue to retain IBI for this phase of
the implementation process. Since IBI has detailed knowledge of the project, the
project can continue on to the next phase without any delay. Provided that the Council
approves the recommendations to move forward with the project, a contract amendment
with IBI for the next phase of the project will be brought forward for consideration at the
next City Council meeting.
FISCAL IMPACT
The recommended service changes are based on the existing annual operating cost of
Arcadia Transit. However, additional start-up costs including the cost for detailed route
planning, marketing efforts, bus stop infrastructure, and other related items will be
required. An allocation of Proposition A Local Return funds in the amount of $200,000
was included in the FY 2015-16 budget to cover costs associated with the initial
implementation of the service changes. A proposal to undertake these efforts will be
brought forward at the next City Council meeting using these funds. No General Funds
will be utilized.
Arcadia Transit Services Needs Assessment and
Restructuring Plan Final Report
November 3, 2015
Page 6 of 6
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Council approve the Arcadia Transit Service Needs
Assessment and Restructuring Plan Final Report policy recommendations; and
authorize staff to proceed with the implementation of the recommended service
changes.
Attachment: Arcadia Transit Service Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan
Transit Service Needs Assessment and
Restructuring Plan
City of Arcadia
October 2015
City of Arcadia
ARCADIA TRANSIT:
TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING
PLAN
OCTOBER 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Project Objectives and Process ........................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Key Considerations ............................................................................................................................... 4
1.2.1The Role of the Gold Line ..............................................................................4
1.2.2Fare Policy and Financial considerations.......................................................4
1.2.3Strategic Outreach ........................................................................................4
1.2.4Community Demographics .............................................................................5
1.3 Report Structure .................................................................................................................................... 6
2.REVIEW OF CURRENT ARCADIA TRANSIT SERVICES, PEER SYSTEM
REVIEW & THE NEW GOLD LINE SERVICE ......................................................................... 6
2.1 Operations and Service Delivery Southland Transit Inc. ................................................................ 6
2.2 System Performance and Evaluation .................................................................................................. 7
2.3 Current Fleet ........................................................................................................................................ 12
2.4 Gold Line Extension ............................................................................................................................ 13
2.5 Peer System Review ........................................................................................................................... 13
3.SURVEY RESEARCH / OUTREACH & CONSULTATION ................................................... 15
3.1 Community Survey .............................................................................................................................. 15
3.2 Consultation / Outreach Stakeholder Meetings ............................................................................. 16
3.3 Public Open House ............................................................................................................................. 20
3.4 Summary of Transit/Mobility Needs .................................................................................................. 21
4.MOBILITY MANAGEMENT - SERVICE ALTERNATIVES & EVALUATION
AND IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES .................................................................................... 22
4.1 Transportation/Mobility Concepts ..................................................................................................... 22
4.1.1Fixed Route Circulators .............................................................................. 22
4.1.2Employer Shuttles ...................................................................................... 22
4.1.3Bikeshare ................................................................................................... 23
4.1.4Carshare..................................................................................................... 24
4.1.5Rideshare Services ..................................................................................... 24
4.1.6Shared Ride Taxi ........................................................................................ 25
4.1.7Conventional Taxi Service ........................................................................... 26
4.1.8Public-Private Partnerships ......................................................................... 27
4.1.9Free Fare Transit Services .......................................................................... 28
4.2 Evaluation Framework for Service Alternatives ............................................................................... 29
4.3 Improvement Strategies/ Conceptual Alternatives .......................................................................... 30
5.RECOMMENDATIONS A WAY FORWARD ...................................................................... 38
October 2015 Page i.
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Appendix A: Peer System Notes
Appendix B: Community Survey
Appendix C: Community Open House Poster Boards
October 2015 Page ii.
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
1.INTRODUCTION
The City retained IBI
Group to conduct a
Transit Needs
Assessment and
Restructuring Plan.
This is a milestone
project coming at a
time of outstanding
opportunity to
enhance the quality
and attractiveness of
public transportation
in the central San
Gabriel Valley. The
prime catalyst for
change is the
opening of the Gold Line extension in early 2016 with a station in downtown Arcadia. With
the physical reality of light rail transit taking shape in Arcadia and inauguration of train
service east of Sierra Madre Villa anticipated within 6 months, it is timely for the City to
take a fresh look at Arcadia Transit and determine what role it will play in the next
generation transit network. The key objectives of this project are to determine how
Arcadia Transit best fits into the regional transit mosaic created with Foothill Transit and
residents, visitors and business community.
Arcadia Transit already plays an important role in the sub
regional transit network of the San Gabriel Valley.
Organized nearly 40 years ago, it is the oldest and one of
the largest demand responsive systems in Los Angeles
County. Arcadia Transit service currently supplements
Metro and Foothill Transit regional bus routes with curb-
to-curb travel provided within the City limits. The service
operates from 7:00 am until 9:30 pm on weekdays, and
until 7:00 pm on weekends. Although open to the general public, the reservation-based
service is used mainly by older adults, persons with disabilities, and school-age children.
Arcadia Transit average daily ridership is approximately 425 one-way trips on weekdays,
115 trips on Saturday, and 95 on Sunday. Ridership growth has averaged two percent
annually since 2009, reaching 120,000 one-way trips in FY2014.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Arcadia Transit offers a highly valued service to its customers at modest fares. By design,
dial-a-ride services are inherently a low capacity service, with Arcadia Transit carrying an
average of fewer than 30 passengers per bus deployed in weekday service.
Consequentially, the net cost per passenger is typically higher than traditional fixed-route
transit services. This is not intended to minimize the value of Arcadia Transit to its
customers or its contribution to quality of life in the City. It is important to recognize that a
key challenge in this project is how to continue to accommodate existing customers who
depend on Arcadia Transit while also broadening the system capacity and ridership base.
Service redesign may be part of the solution. With the service area confined to the 11-
square miles of the City, the present design does not fully accommodate the farther
reaching travel patterns of most residents. Initial market research sponsored by LACMTA
(Metro) during the project design and engineering phase of the Gold Line Foothill
Extension project, indicates that commuters from Arcadia and neighboring cities in the
central San Gabriel Valley constitute a sizeable growth market for transit. Three-quarters
of Arcadia residents commute to jobs outside of the City; most of them drive although at
least 11% travel in carpools and two percent use public transit. A 2011 telephone survey
of Gold Line users conducted for Metro by Rea & Parker in association with IBI Group
concluded that Arcadia likely will be a top boarding location among those who presently
board at Sierra Madre Villa and other stations in Pasadena:
-half mile of the newly proposed Gold Line
stations 94 percent of current Gold Line riders who intend to use the Gold Line
Extension intend to board at one of the new stations. Their primary proposed
boarding stations are Azusa-Citrus College (47 percent) and Arcadia (27 percent).
Within the primary driving area, 90 percent of current riders plan to board at a new
station (p.11)
In addition to Arcadia residents, the Gold Line extension provides significant potential to
ctions such as Santa
Anita Race Track, the LA County Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, and Westfield Santa
Anita Mall. In addition, better bus service from the Gold Line to major events including
the California Philharmonic's Festival on the Green summer concert series at the
Arboretum, the Arcadia Festival of Bands, and Pasadena Jazz Fest would be helpful in
managing the congestion
created by these events.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
1.1 Project Objectives and Process
The intent of the project is to develop alternatives to the current Arcadia Transit service,
that will meet the transit needs of the community in anticipation of the Gold Line light rail
extension, as well as the needs for connections with neighboring communities and other
transportation services. The following set of objectives were developed for use in
generating the improvement options
Provide a range of mobility options to facilitate local access for residents to enable
travel without having to drive.
Provide a range of options for effective, time competitive connections for residents
to access the Gold Line station without driving.
Provide a range of options for connections between the station and key activity
centers for visitors to Arcadia.
The following key steps and processes have been taken to develop the improvement
strategies and conceptual alternatives that address the objectives of the project.
Reviewing the operating performance of Arcadia Transit
Reaching out to the public through survey research (administering a community
survey available in hard copies as well as online); community meetings, and
meeting with key stakeholders and members of City Council
Developing improvement proposals, including conceptual cost estimates, and
reviewing them with City staff
Preparing the draft and final reports
The study process is summarized in the flowchart below (Figure 1.1)
Figure 1.1: Study Process
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
1.2 Key Considerations
1.2.1THE ROLE OF THE GOLD LINE
It is important to understand how the Gold Line can change the propensity of people to use
public transportation for commuting and other trip purposes. Most transit service in
Arcadia is operated by Foothill Transit (Foothill Route 187) and Metro (Metro Routes 79,
268 and 487), which are independent entities with a regional focus and many different
constituencies to satisfy. Arcadia appoints one of 22 members to the Foothill Transit Joint
Power Authority (JPA) Board, and is represented on the 12-member Metro Board by the
influence, it is particularly important that the City formulate a clear message to the region
about the transit system it wants built on a sound technical foundation and credible public
consensus. The City understands the potential value of a multi-modal transit system on
local mobility, economic development, and quality of life.
1.2.2FARE POLICY AND FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Recognition of opportunities to generate new revenues for the transit system was a
consideration for this study. This included an understanding of public financing
opportunities, the trade-offs inherent to fare increases, as well as entrepreneurial sources
of revenue for transit.
Fare policy changes, including rate adjustments, must be considered within guidance
provided by City Council. Potentially, this includes fare structure and rate adjustments to
simplify fare collection, increase off-board fare prepayment options, minimize ridership
attrition due to fare increases, and ultimately support ridership growth.
Fleet and infrastructure improvements need to be considered in order to ensure the long
term viability of the Arcadia Transit system. Funding policy for such improvements as
onboard security system, automatic vehicle locator, transit information application, bus
stop amenities, and others will need to be addressed.
1.2.3STRATEGIC OUTREACH
If a solid technical foundation is essential to project success, so too is a compelling public
and stakeholder engagement plan to involve Arcadia Transit customers and other
residents in the study process. Ttechnical approach featured a number of
processes to effectively inform and elicit input during the development of the draft service
plan and gather feedback. In addition to the Arcadia Transit user/community survey and
community meetings, the study process included engaging participation from stakeholders
and the public through face-to-face meetings, telephone discussions and email.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
The outreach element of the study provided insight into who is using the bus, when and for
what reasons they ride, and how possible future service changes might benefit or impact
them. Further, the study process included close liaison with City staff ensuring that the
survey methodology, content, and presentation of findings were customized to local
conditions in the City of Arcadia.
1.2.4COMMUNITY DEMOGRAPHICS
Transit ridership levels are affected by population and employment densities and major
generators, such as shopping malls, schools and universities. The population groups most
likely to use transit include youth, seniors and lower-income households. The price and
availability of parking and the amount of congestion in an area also affect transit ridership.
1
The 2010 United States Census reported that Arcadia had a population of 56,364. The
population density was 5,062.5 people per square mile.
The population was spread out with:
12,290 people (21.8%) under the age of 18;
4,102 people (7.3%) aged 18 to 24;
13,409 people (23.8%) aged 25 to 44;
17,349 people (30.8%) aged 45 to 64: and
2
9,214 people (16.3%) who were 65 years of age or older.
The median age was 43.1 years.
According to the 2010 Census, Arcadia had a median household income of $77,704, with
9.6% of the population living below the federal poverty line.
Students contribute to transit ridership since many do not own cars, cannot afford to pay
for fuel and insurance or would prefer to take transit. The youth market is particularly
important to transit in both the short term and long term. In the short term, youth are
dependent on others for mobility making them a prime market for transit, especially with
after-school travel. The long-term potential is based on retaining them as riders into their
adult lives by providing superior service that meets their changing mobility needs.
Like the youth population, the senior population is a market segment that has special
mobility needs that can be served well by transit. Transit can supplement driving at night
or in poor weather and replace the personal vehicle when driving is no longer possible.
Seniors generally use transit to access community activities, medical appointments and
shopping.
1
Represents a 5.85% increase in population since the year 2000 population of 53,248.
2
The 16.3% of the population age 65+ is 43 percent greater than the State average of 11.4%.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
1.3 Report Structure
Following this Introduction, the report includes the following sections:
2.0 Review of Current Arcadia Transit Services
3.0 Survey Research / Outreach & Consultation
4.0 Mobility Management - Service Alternatives & Evaluation and Improvement
Strategies/Conceptual Alternatives
5.0 Recommendations A Way Forward.
Appendices including Community Survey Form, Peer System Notes, and Community
Open House Posters
2.REVIEW OF CURRENT ARCADIA TRANSIT SERVICES, PEER SYSTEM
REVIEW & THE NEW GOLD LINE SERVICE
Arcadia Transit is a demand-response service open to the general public,
and offers curb-to curb transportation to any destination within the city
boundaries. Trip requests can be made the same day (on a space-available
basis) or up to seven days in advance. A standing reservation or
subscription can be established for trips to the same location, at the same
time, on the same day every week. New subscriptions are honored as
received based on space availability.
2.1 Operations and Service Delivery Southland Transit Inc.
The operations and service delivery of Arcadia Transit services is under contract to
Southland Transit Inc. Primary responsibilities of the contractor include: taking trip
reservations; scheduling and dispatch; provision of drivers/service delivery; vehicle
maintenance and data management/reporting. Specific responsibilities including
reporting and data management are addressed in the Professional Services Agreement
(PSA) of June 25, 2014 between the City and Southland Transit. Included in the PSA are
performance-based criteria with compensation (or penalties) tied to performance targets.
Southland Transit has four staff dedicated to trip reservations, scheduling and dispatch.
Currently, commercially available scheduling software (Trapeze version 4) is used for
operational functions. This version is outdated., In fact, staff is having to allocate trips
manually. Southland Management reports that to the software upgrade (Trapeze version
14) is anticipated in 2015. The software upgrade will enable automation of trip
assignments and management reporting. This upgrade will also provide many useful
data management features.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
2.2System Performance and Evaluation
The consultant team was provided a comprehensive set of
historic operating data and reports. This information was
reviewed and compared to current performance to help
determine operating trends. A summary of comparative
annual operating statistics for FY2010 FY2014 is
presented in Table 2.1.
Table 2.1: Comparative Annual Operating Statistics FY2010 FY2014
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Figures 2.1 through 2.6 present operating and financial trends for the FY2010 FY2014
period and address:
Annual Transit Ridership and Productivity (Figure 2.1):
Average Daily Ridership (Figure 2.2)
Transit Efficiency & Effectiveness (Figure 2.3)
Revenue Distribution by Source (Figure 2.4)
Expense Distribution by Function (Figure 2.5)
Transit Fare Revenue (Figure 2.6)
Figure 2.1: Annual Transit ridership and ProductivityFY2010-FY2014
-
Comparative ridership and productivity data illustrating a continual increase in annual
ridership (and productivity) since 2010
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Figure 2.2: Average Daily Ridership FY2010-FY2014
Distribution of ridership by weekday vs. weekend (Sat. & Sun.) Most significant increase
since 2010 has been in Saturday ridership.
Figure 2.3: Transit Efficiency & Effectiveness FY2010-FY2014
This figure illustrates the trend of the net total cost per revenue hour and cost per
passenger. The operating costs have increased approximately 15% since 2010.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Figure 2.4: Revenue Distribution by Source FY2010-FY2014
This figure illustrates the funding sources used for the operation of Arcadia Transit service.
The percentage distribution of revenue by source was virtually unchanged since 2012
As illustrated in the above Figure 2.4, funding sources include:
STA:
State Transit Assistance fund. These funds are derived from excise taxes
on diesel fuel.
Measure R:
Measure R is a half-cent sales tax for Los Angeles County to finance
transportation projects and programs. These funds are derived from a 2008 voter
approved sales tax ordinance.
Prop A:
The Proposition A sales tax, approved by voters in 1980, is a one-half of
1% tax on most retail sales in the County. Metro returns 25% of the Proposition A
tax to the cities in the County for transportation purposes.
BSIP:
Bus System Improvement Plan is a financially unconstrained business plan,
which details improvements to the bus system in Los Angeles County. A three-
tiered system of service is included in the BSIP: core regional service, community
connectors and local services. This is to ensure all countywide transit operators are
included in the planning process and implementation of BSIP.
MOSIP:
Municipal Operator Service Improvement Program funds are discretionary
funds designated through the LA Metro Board adopted programs.
TDA Article 4:
Transportation Development Act (TDA) Article 4. These funds are
derived from a statewide one-quarter cent sales tax that is deposited into the State
Local Transportation Fund.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Figure 2.5: Expense Distribution by Function FY2010-FY2013
This figure illustrates the breakdown of the operating expenses. Vehicle operations as a
percent of total expenses has increased the greatest while General/Administrative expenses
declined as a percent of total expenses.
Figure 2.6: Transit Fare Revenue (Average Fare & Farebox Recovery) FY2011-
FY2014
This figure illustrates average fare per passenger collected. Average fare per passenger has
declined since 2011 while the percent of farebox recovery has remained relatively stable at
approximately 6%. In 2014, an average fare of $.62 per passenger was collected. This
covered 6% of the total operating expense (cost per passenger).
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
2.3Current Fleet
The existing fleet consists of eighteen vehicles with 14 to 16
typically in service (delivering service/revenue hours of
service).
The table below presents salient characteristics of the fleet
inventory.
Mo/Yr. Placed
Fleet in Revenue Mileage as of
No. Make/Model Service 06/30/2015 Condition
30 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 112,129 Fair
31 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 113,928 Fair
32 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 109,890 Fair
33 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 88,421 Fair
34 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 96,202 Fair
35 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 102,623 Fair
36 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 81,405 Fair
37 Ford - El Dorado Aerotech Sep-09 90,481 Fair
38 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 39,699 Good
39 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 52,307 Good
40 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 42,136 Good
41 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 42,280 Good
42 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 38,632 Good
43 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 51,062 Good
44 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 47,984 Good
45 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 43,018 Good
46 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 42,900 Good
47 Ford - Elkhart Coach Mar-13 44,984 Good
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2.4 Gold Line Extension
The Foothill Gold Line is a 24-mile extension
of the Metro Gold Line light rail system,
being built in two segments (Pasadena to
Azusa and Azusa to Montclair). The first
segment, under construction now, is
Pasadena to Azusa, which includes six new
stations (including the Arcadia Station). The Foothill Gold Line from Pasadena to Azusa is
tro
Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority, an independent transportation
planning and construction agency created in 1998 by the California State Legislature. The
Pasadena to Azusa segment is on time and on budget, and was turned over to Metro in
September 2015. It is tentatively scheduled to begin passenger service in Spring of 2016.
The Gold Line extension is expected to operate a schedule similar to the existing Gold
Line, which operates seven days a week. Service is provided on weekdays between 4:00
am and 2:30 am. Saturday, Sunday, and holiday service operates between 4:30 am
2:30 am. Frequency ranges from 5 minutes during weekday peak periods to 20 minutes
in the late evenings.
2.5 Peer System Review
Complementing the review of existing Arcadia Transit services and within the context of
the introduction of Gold Line service to Arcadia, ten California transit operators were
reviewed to gather insights for consideration in developing improvement proposals. The
operators are listed below.
City of Corona City of Manteca
City of Folsom City of Turlock
City of Gardena Laguna Beach Municipal Transit
City of Irvine iShuttle Simi Valley Transit
City of Lompoc Thousand Oaks Transit
Five of the peers connect to rail services and all of them connect to local and express bus
services. Summary information for each of the operators is presented in Table 2.2. The
consultant team was able to contact a select number of the operators and notes from
those contacts are included in the Appendix A. Key findings from the review are listed
below.
Most of the operators have a fare.
Most of the services are operated as a City service.
Stop design and amenities are important to encourage choice riders (or commuters
who have other transportation options but choose to use public transit) to use the
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
service to access regional transit and enhance pedestrian safety in getting to/from
the stop.
Most of the operators provide service six or seven days a week.
Both choice and captive riders (or riders who depend on public transit) typically
prefer fixed-route, fixed-scheduled service rather than having to make a
reservation or pre-book a trip. The exception is older adults/senior citizens and
persons with a disability requiring curb-to-curb service.
Travel time competitive with the private automobile is important in attracting choice
riders.
Community-based transit services can provide an attractive alternative to the
private automobile for commuters seeking connectivity to commuter rail services
Similarly, alternate delivery scenarios such as
-effective mobility
options for evening service.
Table 2.2: Peer System Summary
# of
# of
Vehicles
Agency Area Bus Connections
in Peak
Routes
Service
City of
1
Los Angeles 2 Metrolink, Riverside Transit Agency 14
Corona
City of Sacramento Regional Transit District
2
Sacramento 3 13
Folsom Buses & LRT
City of
3
Los Angeles 5 Metro Rail & Bus Services 49
Gardena
City of Irvine Orange
4
4 Amtrak, Metrolink, OCTA Bus Services 17
iShuttle County
The Breeze (to Santa Maria), Clean Air
City of San Luis Express (to Goleta and Santa Barbara),
5
4 12
Lompoc Obispo Wine Country Express (to Buellton and
Solvang)
City of
6
Bay Area 3 San Joaquin Regional Transit District 5
Manteca
City of Stanislaus Regional Transit, Merced
7
Merced 4 8
Turlock Regional Transit System
Laguna
Beach Orange
8
3 OCTA Bus Service 24
Municipal County
Transit
Simi Valley
9
Ventura 4 Metro Bus Services 17
Transit
Thousand
10
Ventura 4 Metro Rail and Bus Services 20
Oaks Transit
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3.SURVEY RESEARCH / OUTREACH & CONSULTATION
Survey research, community outreach and consultation were an integral component of
the study process. These included: designing and administering a community survey
(Section 3.1); several one-on-one meetings with key stakeholders or constituencies
(Section 3.2); and a Public Open House (Section 3.3).
3.1 Community Survey
A community survey was conducted to better understand the qualitative aspects of
Arcadia Transit service delivery and the behavioral attributes that impact mode choice.
The survey also provided an opportunity for the community to express their concerns and
make recommendation to improve transit services.
To ensure maximum participation, surveys were made available to the community for a
30-day period beginning on Thursday, February 26, 2015 until Friday, March 27, 2015.
The method of distribution included an online survey via SurveyMonkey and paper copies
available at various sites including City Hall, the community/senior center, and library.
Communication of the web-based survey was made to the general public via the City of
community survey was also made available.
The community survey consisted of eight questions targeted to solicit feedback from
community members on their preferred transportation mode choice, typical trip
destinations by mode, opinions on the quality of transit service provided by Arcadia
Transit, recommendations on potential improvements to transit service, and individual
demographic data.
Approximately 157 responses were collected during the 30-day survey window ending on
Friday, March 27, 2015. Of the 157 responses, 56 responses, or 36%, were collected
from the paper survey and 101 responses, or 64%, were collected online from the
SurveyMonkey. Additionally, of the 157 responses, 149 responses or 95% were
collected from the English survey and 8 responses, or 5%, were collected from the
Chinese survey. Although 157 responses were collected from the survey, it should be
noted that not all participants answered every survey question. Questions regarding
demographic data such as household income, age of the survey participant, and primary
language spoken at home were the most commonly skipped survey questions.
A copy of the survey instrument and detailed survey results is presented in Appendix B.
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Salient community survey results include the following:
75% say Arcadia Transit service is convenient and fares are reasonable.
70% overall satisfied with service
86% drive, 43% walk, 14% bike.
54% use for social/recreational trips, 14% use for work trips
Arcadia Transit is used by 53% of respondents, followed by 26% Gold Line, 21%
Metro, 14% Foothill, and 5% Metrolink.
Reasons people use Arcadia Transit: it takes too long (34%)
how to book a trip (34%), or pick-up times are not reliable (32%).
Improvement ideas:
direct shuttle service to Gold Line (51%)
o
phone app to book trip (48%)
o
direct service to locations outside of City (47%)
o
fixed stop bus service (w/o calling in advance) (43%)
o
In short, survey results indicate that:
Driving is the primary mode of transportation;
Arcadia Transit is used primarily for discretionary travel and customers are very
satisfied with the service; and
Reasons given for not using Arcadia Transit (and validated by desired
Improvement Ideas) indicates a preference for fixed-route (or a variation) service
and not having to pre-book a trip. This would include a direct shuttle service to
the Gold Line station.
3.2 Consultation / Outreach Stakeholder Meetings
Stakeholder meetings were held with key individuals and constituencies including
representatives from:
Santa Anita Park Chamber of Commerce
Westfield Santa Anita Mall Arcadia Unified School District
Methodist Hospital Los Angeles County Arboretum
Downtown Arcadia Improvement Senior Citizen Commission
Association
Members of City Council
The format for each meeting included introducing the study, providing an overview of work
program, key elements for consideration and solicited input/generated discussion.
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A summary of the meetings is presented below.
Methodist Hospital of Southern California
Approx. 2,000 employees plus 600 physicians. Nursing staff typical shifts:
7:00am-7:00pm and 7:00pm-7:00am
Currently no parking challenges for staff or patients. Ten (10) stalls designated for
carpools
Interested in a shuttle service (fixed schedule) with introduction of local Gold Line
service. Optimistic that several staff will take advantage of other transit solutions,
particularly for support staff including housekeeping
Downtown Arcadia Improvement Association
Established in 2010 to revitalize downtown area
Gold Line may be leveraged to attract locals and visitors to downtown area
Need for enhanced pedestrian access
Transit may be greater benefit if provided a fixed route, fixed schedule service
providing link between downtown and Gold Line (as well as other key attractors in
the City)
Need to address challenges of parking would like to see other transit/mobility
options
Santa Anita Park
845 employees
In addition to race track specific events 10 months of the year, hold over 180
total events/year
Attracts over 1.5 million visitors a year
Interested in further discussions regarding specific service planning efforts for the
design of community shuttle services and connectivity to the Gold Line station
Interested in advertising to patrons on availability of Gold Line
Possible partnership opportunity
Senior Citizen Commission
Concern that students are monopolizing the service for several hours every
weekday afternoon. Seniors unable to travel. Suggestion that some are told by
transit reservationists/dispatchers to be more flexible in their travel times.
Regular Arcadia transit service to Community/Senior Center
Use Access (ADA) for trips outside Arcadia
Concerns of safety and security with conventional transit services
Community Center open until 10:00pm. Would like later evening transit service.
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Suggest leave eligibility for senior fare ($.25) at age 62
Seniors becoming more comfortable with technology
population & percentage of older adults -
Incidence of disability increases with age/loss
Need to address other
transportation (i.e., dial-a ride/taxi programs, etc.).
Westfield Santa Anita
Representatives shared the future of retail
Interested in prospect of both a community circulator and connections to Gold
Line shopping shuttle.
Greatest value if provided in fixed route, fixed schedule mode
Able to address employee and visitor transportation/access as well as seasonal
parking capacity challenges.
Presence of community based transit able to leverage to reduce parking space
requirements.
Arcadia Unified School Districtand Parent Representative
Appreciative of student transport
-to-curb school transport is
unlike conventional public transit and hence send nine or ten year olds
unaccompanied
May be receptive to a premium fare for premium service a second tier of public
transit specific to students collaborative approach/cost-sharing
Chamber of Commerce
Recognition that effective transit can be the economic engine for the community -
quality of service as well as effectiveness in meeting local travel needs of most
st
guests/visitors. Effective in somewhat addressing parking (1 Ave, south of
Huntington) & congestion issues.
Use of transit for employees
TDM options that might include bikeshare or carshare programs
Transit branding and marketing possibly include interior advertisements/TV
monitors
Need to look at neighborhood shuttles community-based transit service (trolley
services or flex-route/route deviated type services), shopping shuttles
Dedicated routes for specific events or theme buses (i.e.,
o
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Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Private/public partnership (County & Foundation)
Approx. 11,000 members
375,000 visitors/year (peak season March, April, May)
Overflow parking at Westfield. Provision of tram service.
Special events & free-day (once a month)
Direct transit service to Gold Line beneficial in providing additional transportation
options and address seasonal parking challenges
Arcadia City Council
individual meetings
Expressed concern regarding quality of current service specifically on-time
performan
Need for advanced technologies including GPS. Enhanced customer service to
provide real-time information
Current subsidy per trip is not sustainable.
Need to explore cost-sharing agreements private entities contributing
o
financially
Explore prospect of advertising revenue
o
Need to preserve service for seniors maintain age (62 yrs.) and fare
School transport:
Parents likely have false sense of security. Concern of potential risk/exposure
o
for city
Premium service. Possibility of different fare structure for students
o
Partner with School District cost-sharing agreement
o
Priority also to assist local businesses including downtown redevelopment
Need to target commuters fixed route, fixed schedule services and fixed route to
connect with Gold Line
Look at mixed fleet trolley service connecting key attractions different identity
Sell an annual pass keep inexpensive whether use the service or not. And
use advanced technologies for fare payment
Any service outside Arcadia would require a cost-sharing agreement
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3.3 Public Open House
Two public meetings were held as part of the study process. An initial Community Open
th
House was held on Thursday, May 28 at the Arcadia Public Library. A second public
meeting was held on Wednesday, September 16th in the City Council chambers. The
purpose of the initial open house was to solicit feedback from the community regarding
Transit Needs
Assessment and Restructuring Plan. Community members were invited to voice their
concerns regarding transit services and make recommendations to improve the service.
The September public meeting included a presentation of concepts and a recommended
approach for going forward.
Community members were notified of the open house/public meetings through various
channels including th
included poster boards that detailed project objectives, current transit operations and
performance, the Gold Line extension, results of the community survey, and potential
service improvement strategies. Potential service improvement strategies that were
introduced through the poster boards included a fixed route service, service expansion,
changes to hours of operation, and a feeder service to the future Gold Line station.
Participants were invited to provide feedback on these suggested strategies. Comment
cards were also available for any participants wishing to provide additional comments.
Members of the consulting team as well as City staff conducted the open house and were
available to answer questions from the community. Main concerns regarding transit
services and recommended improvements are summarized below:
Reservations can only be made 7 days in advance, which causes conflicts with
elderly and handicapped users when they are unable to reserve transit services
for medical appointments. Reservation windows should be extended.
Community members reported difficulties with the reservation system and
recommended incorporating an answering service for messages.
Community members expressed the need for more dispatchers and drivers as
they would sometimes be told to wait 30-45 minutes for a ride, or no rides were
available. They also reported difficulties in comprehending dispatchers as they
would sometimes speak too quickly.
The service area should expand outside of Arcadia and include trips to areas
such as Temple City, San Dimas, Pasadena, and Monrovia. Community
members expressed approval in paying additional fares for trips to these areas.
Transit service should include service to the future Gold Line station.
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Transit service is often monopolized by students during school recess hours of
2:00pm 4:00pm. Community members expressed difficulties in reserving trips
and the need to expand service during these times.
Fixed route services should target medical facilities in stop placements.
Wheelchair capacity of transit vehicles was reported as an issue, with some
vehicles only being able to accommodate one wheelchair.
Transit service and hours should be expanded during special events, such as
summer concerts, and weekends.
Community members expressed overall satisfaction with current drivers.
th
Attendees at the September 16 public meeting included representatives of the elderly
and disability community as well as students. There was general consensus of the
recommended approach with the former constituency (elderly and disability community)
expressing appreciation for the preservation of the dial-a-ride service, for having
addressed their primary concerns and for providing additional transit/mobility options for
the community.
3.4 Summary of Transit/Mobility Needs
The evaluation of existing Arcadia Transit services and as validated by the consultation
and community surveys indicates that transit is effective in meeting the travel needs of
captive riders (those typically with no alternate transport modes available) and to a lesser
extent, non-discretionary travelers.
Based on Community Survey results as well as stakeholder consultation (including
comments from the public meetings), driving is the primary mode of transportation used in
Arcadia and customers of Arcadia Transit are very satisfied with the service. In terms of
reasons cited for not using transit service focused on convenience not wanting to pre-
book/detracts from spontaneity, takes too long, need for more direct service, hours and
days of week of service, challenges in getting a desired trip typically in the afternoon as
Some expressed an interest in
seeing an expansion of the transit service area to include trips to areas such as Temple
City, San Dimas, Pasadena, and Monrovia. Community members expressed approval in
paying additional fares for trips to these areas.
Residents made it very clear that there is a role for a viable transit system, and
complimentary mobility options to address issues of congestion and parking as well as the
future need to provide connectivity with the Gold Line. Further, the business community
expressed that transit can be the economic engine to address the mobility needs of
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4.MOBILITY MANAGEMENT - SERVICE ALTERNATIVES & EVALUATION AND
IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES
The results of the current system evaluation and the community and stakeholders input
indicate that Arcadia is ready for a robust transit system. Although there are many
innovative mobility improvement alternatives that have been tested and are available for
consideration, only certain transportation/mobility concepts that focus on service
alternatives were evaluated and reviewed for applicability to Arcadia Transit. These
concepts were considered either to replace the current program or as an enhancement to
current services, and they are described in detail in this chapter.
4.1 Transportation/Mobility Concepts
4.1.1FIXED ROUTE CIRCULATORS
Circulators would operate with small vehicles to provide frequent service during high
demand periods
transportation. It would be important to carefully design such a circulator so that the
amount of service operated matches the demand by time of day, to avoid running more
service than is needed. Service typically operates initially only in the peak periods or for
example to serve student demand in the afternoon on weekdays, building to all day service
if demand warrants it. Examples of such circulators include the Downtown Los Angeles
DASH routes, the Super Loop in San Diego, and the Greenlink in Downtown Houston.
Pros Cons
Provides predictable, scheduled Requires definition of prescribed
service service standards and on-going
service monitoring to ensure
Design criteria to meet prescribed
compliance
markets and area of service
Viable transit solution for Subject to elimination/modification of
o
captive riders service based on ridership
Typically provides viable
transit/mobility alternative for choice
riders
Appropriate application for public
entities and/or public/private
partnerships
4.1.2EMPLOYER SHUTTLES
These services meet employees at transit hubs and take them directly to their
employment sites. Buses or vans could be used. An example would be the UCSD shuttle
service between the campus and a nearby Coaster commuter rail station. Other
examples include Disney, who provides employee shuttle services from several remote
parking and transit sites in Anaheim, and Microsoft Corporation, who provides employee
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shuttle services and connectivity to both transit terminals and intra-campus locations in
the Redmond, WA area.
Pros Cons
Provides predictable, scheduled Transit service for a specific market
service segment. Not available to public-at-
large
Design criteria to meet prescribed
markets and area of service No clearly identifiable service delivery
role for public transit entities
Private sector initiative to meet travel
demand of employees
Potential role for public transit entities
to work with local business community,
facilitate local collaborative solution
4.1.3BIKESHARE
Under these programs, a subscriber takes a bike out of one station and can dock it at any
other station in the system. Short trips are free, with longer trips progressively costing
more. This helps ensure that trips stay short and that there are a plentiful number of bikes
for new customers. Bike share programs tend to be used for short to medium length trips.
Examples include the existing programs in Anaheim and on the UC Irvine campus. The
cities of Los Angeles and Santa Monica are developing bikeshare systems.
Bikeshare
Solar powered bicycle station
Pros Cons
Less pollution/reduction of carbon May compete with private, for profit
footprint bicycle rental shops in the city
Congestion and parking mitigation Potential vandalism and theft
Provides bicycle for temporary use
(specifically attractive to visitors and
infrequent riders)
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4.1.4CARSHARE
Carshare services allow the short term use of small
cars for short trips on an as needed basis. Drivers can
sign up for pay-per-ride access to a fleet of cars that will
be parked on public streets and available to rent using
a smartphone app. Customers will be able to swipe a
badge to unlock the car, drive to their destination and
leave the car parked in any public parking space.
Examples include the car2Go in South Bay, and
Zipcar plug-in converted Toyota Prius recharging at
the car2Go and Zipcar programs in San Diego.
a reserved public charging station
Pros Cons
Lower cost than owning a car. A car Insurance coverage may be an
share member does not need to issue.
purchase or lease a vehicle, maintain the The vehicle desired is not
car, or pay for fuel. guaranteed. Inconvenience. Require
A car share member does not need to be additional travel and time necessary
concerned about paying for and to plan. Also required membership
managing the maintenance of a vehicle. and mileage limitation.
Flexibility of car type. Businesses offer a
wide variety of vehicles, permitting a car
sharing member to rent the vehicle that
is most appropriate to the present need.
Environmental benefits. Use of car
sharing services benefits the
environment by taking cars off of the
road and by providing drivers greater
incentive to avoid using cars.
4.1.5RIDESHARE SERVICES
Real-time ridesharing (also known as instant ridesharing, dynamic
ridesharing, ad-hoc ridesharing, dynamic carpooling provided in
California by Transportation Network Companies) is a service that
arranges one-time shared rides on very short notice. This type of
carpooling generally makes use of three recent technological
advances:
GPS navigation devices to determine a driver's route and
arrange the shared ride
Smartphones for a traveler to request a ride from wherever they
happen to be
Social networks to establish trust and accountability between drivers and passengers
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These elements are coordinated through a
network service, which can instantaneously
handle the driver payments and match rides
using an optimization algorithm. Examples
include Carma Carpool, Lyft, Uber, Sidecar,
3
Downtowner, and Wingz.
Regulatory issues have been a factor in the
development and operation of these services in California.
Pros Cons
Vehicles available for public hire Not regulated like a traditional taxi.
(similar to traditional taxi) fostering Currently, no permit or licensing
spontaneity of travel requirements.
Convenience of trip requests and Potential uncertainty of quality of
payment done through smartphone vehicle and driver training and
app competency
Often less-expensive than traditional Some have equated with dangers of
taxi hitchhiking
4.1.6SHARED RIDE TAXI
When provided by taxi firms under contract to
public agencies, demand responsive transit is
essentially subsidized shared ride taxi (SRT)
service. With taxi firms increasingly seeking,
and finding, opportunities to become public
transit contractors for the delivery of community
based transit services, subsidized SRT has
become an important revenue source for taxi firms and a major form of publicly supported
paratransit and dial-a-ride operations. In California, subsidized SRT has already become
the predominant form of demand responsive transit, with several such systems presently
operating in the State. Prominent examples include the supplemental taxi services
provided under contract for Access Services in both Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
The City of Mission Viejo offers shared ride taxi service to residents 60 years and older
with approved application and City of Mission Viejo issued photo identification card.
Service is curb-to-curb cab service 24 hours/day and 7 days/week. A lift equipped van is
available with 48 hour advanced notice. All participants must be self-sufficient in all
aspects of travel or they may provide a personal care attendant. Service is provided within
the city limits of Mission Viejo and Laguna Hills and to select satellite destinations. This
A joint-venture partnership in Delray Beach, Florida.
3
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program does not offer medical therapy transportation (i.e. dialysis, chemotherapy,
radiation treatments, etc.) The fare is $5.00 for a one-way trip.
Similar to a dial-a-ride, shared ride taxi service could be based on advanced reservations
and active dispatch by the operator to combine trips. The service area could be specified
to be an area around the activity center to maximize the efficiency of the service. Vehicles
could include autos or vans (including ability to accommodate a mobility device).
Pros Cons
When operated under contract to public Expending of staff resources in
agency, ability to maximize productivity contract management and service
through ride sharing monitoring
Ability to leverage off infrastructure May be problematic in ensuring
including capital assets (vehicles), adequate supply of vehicles in
software and communications service area including requirements
(reservation and dispatch capabilities) of by day of week and time of day
taxi company
Ability to meet performance standards
through performance based contracts
Typically less expensive (per trip or per
hour) than directly operated by public
agency
Typically regulated to ensure compliance
with required permits and licenses
(including prescribed fare structure)
4.1.7CONVENTIONAL TAXI SERVICE
Taxi service enables individuals or groups to travel
directly to their destinations for regular taxi fare.
These services are regulated by the local jurisdiction
and are available at most rail transit stations in the
region. The taxis would be queued up at the station, and reservations by phone or
internet would be needed for the return trip to the station. They are most viable for
occasional riders, as the expense of riding them on a regular basis would be a negative
factor for most commuters.
Pros Cons
Consumer choice paying full fare Expensive (relative to public transit
Ability for spontaneous travel alternative)
Typically regulated to ensure
compliance with required permits and
licenses (including prescribed fare
structure)
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4.1.8PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
publicprivate partnership
A
Public-private partnerships allow for an ability to
(PPP)
is a government service or
provide targeted services with the help of private
private business venture which is
entities. In a community where there are large trip
funded and/or operated through a
partnership of government and
generators with specific service needs, there may be
one or more private sector
opportunities for some form of public-private
companies. These schemes are
partnerships or collaboration. Arcadia is the home of
sometimes referred to as PPP.
several of such trip generators including Santa Anita
Park, Westfield Mall, Los Angeles County Arboretum, etc. that may present such
opportunity for partnership arrangements. Below are a select number of successful
examples of public-private (transit/mobility) partnerships.
Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART)
Anaheim Resort Transportation or ART is
operated by the Anaheim Transportation Network
(ATN), a non-profit public benefit corporation. ATN
is a transportation management organization with
48 member companies, including the Walt Disney Company, the Anaheim Convention
Center, the City of Anaheim, the Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau,
Kaiser Permanente, the Anaheim Marriott, and many other large hotels and other
employers located within the Anaheim Resort Area (ARA) and Stadium Business Center
(SBC). The Anaheim Transportation Network's mission is to provide mobility solutions for
its members that face the daily challenges of traffic congestion and auto-related
emissions. As a public-private partnership, ART operates 18 shuttle bus routes at 70
stops serving amusement, entertainment and hospitality venues across the ARA and SBC
including the neighboring cities of Buena Park, Garden Grove, Orange and Santa Ana.
The Disneyland Resort Main Transportation Center serves as the hub for connections
between routes. The target market is comprised of residents, employees and visitors to
the Di
Stadium and other notable venues.
Fort Lauderdale Sun Trolley
The Fort Lauderdale Sun Trolley is operated by the
Downtown Fort Lauderdale Transportation
Management Association (DFLTMA), which is a 501(C)
3 non-profit organization that has been operating
community transportation services since 1992. The
stops. Service is provided free of charge on most routes and 50 cents on other routes.
Popular destinations include Downtown, Fort Lauderdale Beach, the Museum of Art and
the Convention Center. The target market is comprised of local residents and visitors.
Ridership averages 40,000 trips monthly.
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North Natomas Flyer Shuttle (Sacramento)
The North Natomas Transportation Management
Association (TMA) operates the Flyer Shuttle, which
connects the neighborhoods of the North Natomas
area of Sacramento with Downtown during commuter peak hours. The North Natomas
TMA is a non-profit organization, whose Board is comprised of area residents, employers
and transit professionals. The Flyer Shuttle is funded through user fees, City of
Sacramento developer impact fees, community facilities district fees, grants, and the
North Natomas TMA. The service operates Monday through Friday along four routes with
a mix of designated and flag stops. The target market is comprised primarily of commuters
4.1.9FREE FARE TRANSIT SERVICES
Free public transport, often called free public transit or zero-fare public transport, refers to
public transit funded in full by means other than collecting fares from passengers. It may
be funded by federal, regional or local government through taxation or by commercial
sponsorship by businesses.
If implemented, Arcadia Transit can benefit from faster boarding and shorter dwell times,
allowing greater schedule adherence/on-time performance of services. Although some of
these benefits can be achieved in other ways, such as off-vehicle ticket sales and modern
types of electronic fare collection, zero-fare transport avoids equipment and personnel
costs.
Zero-fare transport can make the system more accessible and more attractive for low-
income residents.
City of Commerce offers a local example of free-fare
transit on Commerce Municipal Bus Lines provide free
local routes that serve the need of those traveling within
the city itself. CMBL compliments the Los Angeles County
Metropolitan Transportation Authority's routes through the
city, which connect this suburb to nearby towns and
Downtown Los Angeles. Transit services consist of eight routes and a commuter shuttle
providing connectivity to Metrolink. The CMBL area of service is 10 square miles with a
population of 12,900 people.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
4.2 Evaluation Framework for Service Alternatives
It is important to note that some of the service delivery modes presented such as carshare
or bikeshare programs are best suited as private sector initiatives or possibly
private/public partnerships with the latter assisting in the promotion through public policy
considerations. Viable city initiated transit/mobility scenarios focus on shared-ride public
transit modes.
In order for a systematic analysis to be conducted, a consistent evaluation framework has
been developed. Evaluation criteria included consideration of the following:
Effectiveness in terms of the population served (including commuters, visitors,
elderly and disability communities together with the general public); and in terms
of the number of trips generated (ridership, by trip purpose discretionary vs.
non-discretionary travel).
Economy the total cost of providing the service; consideration of such factors
as: capital vs. operating costs, large capital outlays, and present-valued
expenditures over the long-term.
Efficiency the cost per trip, per vehicle-hour, etc.; costs to both user and to the
funding partners.
Level of service reservation constraints, hours of service, frequency of service,
Quality of Service to the user; measured in terms of: convenience, transfers, trip
times, comfort, dignity, and flexibility (response time, advance booking
requirement, etc).
Socio-economic factors impact on employment and social well-being.
Civil rights implications delivery of services for persons with disabilities,
integration, etc.
Organizational issues such as operational flexibility, governance, control and
accountability, human and labor relations, and ease of implementation.
Technical risk
applications, vehicles, etc.).
Financial risk if large capital outlays are required.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
In evaluating alternate delivery schemes, it is important to understand the key differences
between -response services from other modes of transport:
Regular transit bus routes: Arcadia Transit employs flexible routes and schedules
Shuttle bus services: Arcadia Transit departure and arrival points are not fixed
Deviated Fixed Route Service: Transit service that operates along a fixed
alignment or path at generally fixed times, but may deviate from the route
alignment to collect or drop off passengers who have requested the deviation
Paratransit: Arcadia Transit is available to the general public, whereas paratransit
is available to pre-qualified user bases, especially for people with disabilities and
the elderly
Share taxis: Arcadia Transit is pre-booked in advance, whereas share taxis are
operated on an ad-hoc basis
Taxicabs: Arcadia Transit generally carries more people and passengers may
have less control over their journey on the principle of demand-response service
being a shared system as opposed to an exclusive vehicle for hire. Additionally,
journeys may divert en route for new bookings.
The Service Alternatives were evaluated using the above evaluation criteria for their
applicability to Arcadia. This evaluation provides the direction for developing a broad
range of improvement strategies and concepts for consideration.
4.3 Improvement Strategies/ Conceptual Alternatives
As mentioned in Section 1.1 of this report, the key objectives of the project are to:
Provide a range of mobility options to facilitate local access for residents to enable
travel without having to drive.
Provide a range of options for effective, time competitive connections for residents to
access the Gold Line station without driving.
Provide a range of options for connections between the station and key activity
centers for visitors to Arcadia.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Reflecting the transportation/mobility needs of residents, businesses and visitors within a
backdrop of connectivity to Gold Line Services, and applying the evaluation framework,
several improvement concepts were considered to help address the broad range of
mobility needs and trip purposes in Arcadia, including:
Service Expansion to fill gaps and/or serve destination not currently served
Fixed route, route deviation, and/or flex route services.
Eliminate general public Dial-a-Ride/demand-response services. Maintain this
service for older adults/seniors and people with a disability (focusing on Arcadia
Transit successes in meeting the mobility needs of older adults and people with
disabilities)
Hybrid Services that might include alternatives service types by day of week, time
of day, and/or specific geographic areas or destinations
Shared-Use Mobility Options ride share programs with phone apps for trip
booking
Related Mobility Options promotion of bike share or car share programs
Coordination Opportunities with Foothill and Metro and/or local and neighboring
community-based providers.
Table 4.1 presents a number of specific improvement proposals for consideration. The
proposed improvements range from service modifications, and infrastructure and
facilities improvements, to marketing and fare policy changes. With regard to service
modification, the proposals include restructuring of the demand response service for the
exclusive use of seniors and people with disabilities, providing fixed-route/fixed-
schedule services, as well as providing service to neighboring cities. The improvement
proposals include capital improvements such as transit priority treatments, bus stop
improvements and real time information. Often, the effectiveness of the transit system
depends on the availability of other supporting features and modes of transportation.
Thus, it is important to approach mobility improvements comprehensively, and include
pedestrian/bicycle facilities improvements, public information/marketing efforts, fare
policy updates and demand management strategies.
It is important to note that the Estimated Cost presented in Table 4.1 reflects the
estimated actual cost of the specific delivery scenario and does not reflect cost savings
that may be realized by either eliminating or reallocating some current revenue hours to
new service delivery types.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Table 4.1: Summary of Improvement Strategies/Concepts
Time
Market Frame
Segment/ (Near, Technical
Item Type/Proposed Improvement Estimated Population Mid, Risk
4
No. Improvement Details (annual) Cost Served Long) (L, M, H)
ARCADIA TRANSIT SERVICE MODIFICATIONS
Afternoon only.
Coordinate
Introduce fixed-
around school
route/fixed-
1 bell times. Students Near Medium
schedule school $183,000
Approx. 3,050
transport
annual revenue
hrs.
Introduce fixed-Mon.-Fri,
route/fixed-6:00am-9:00am Choice Near
2 schedule peak 4:00pm-7:00pm $93,600 Riders (Gold Low
hour commuter 30-minute Commuters Line)
service service
Introduce fixed-Mon.-Fri, Choice Near/
route/fixed-6:00am-7:00pm Riders Mid
3 $203,000 Low
schedule 30-minute Transit (Gold
(commuter) service service Dependents Line)
Commuters
Additional vehicles Range: Choice
4 for frequency -- $100k to Riders Mid Medium
increases $500k/bus Transit
Dependents
Commuters
Route deviation,
Peak hours only. $134,000 plus Choice
flex route, SMART Near/
5 5:30-9:00 am additional Riders Medium
feeder, and/or Mid
3:00-7:00 pm admin cost Transit
demand response
Dependents
Late Night Service
Expansion of Commuters
7 days/wk Near/
service to operate Choice
Extend hourly Mid
6 later in the evening $48,450 Riders Medium
service to 11:00 (Gold
to better match Transit
pm Line)
Gold Line schedule Dependents
4
Unless otherwise noted.
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October 2015
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Time
Market Frame
Segment/ (Near, Technical
Item Type/Proposed Improvement Estimated Population Mid, Risk
4
No. Improvement Details (annual) Cost Served Long) (L, M, H)
Provide demand
responsive shared Commuters
Demand
ride supplemental Choice
responsive Near/
7 service (i.e., taxis - $71,000 Riders Medium
service from Mid
potential pilot Transit
7:00-11:00 pm
project) Dependents
Local Circulator Service
New shuttle to
Serve locations
connect Gold Line
on the alignment
Station with
8 M-F. $203,580 Visitors Mid High
downtown Arcadia,
9:00 am-10:00
and key activity
pm
centers
Other options to
connect station to M-F.
downtown such as 9:00 am-10:00 Mid/
9 $166,000 Visitors Medium
electric shuttle pm Long
vehicles/carts, (@ $50/hr.)
pedicabs, others
Operational Enhancements
Commuters
Choice
Security cameras Riders
$3,500 Mid/
10 on buses -- Transit Medium
$6,500/bus Long
(recording only) Dependents
Visitors
Coordinate with
Foothill, Metro and
Commuters
Gold Line
Choice Low-
regarding TBD
Riders Medium
11 schedules and -- (Admin. Near
Transit
operations to make responsibility)
Dependents
transfers more
Visitors
convenient
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Time
Market Frame
Segment/ (Near, Technical
Item Type/Proposed Improvement Estimated Population Mid, Risk
4
No. Improvement Details (annual) Cost Served Long) (L, M, H)
Service to Neighboring Jurisdictions
Meet with
neighboring
cities/jurisdictions
to discuss Choice
TBD
opportunities for Riders Mid/
12 -- (Admin. High
shared use, i.e., Transit Long
responsibility)
extending Arcadia Dependents
service to
destinations
outside Arcadia.
Transit Priority Treatments
Signal priority to
reduce travel time
$8,000-$35,000 Commuters
on congested
per intersection Choice
arterials such as
13 -- Riders Mid/ Long Medium
Huntington Drive.
+$1,500 per Transit
Coordinate with
emitter (bus) Dependents
current Metro and
Foothill efforts.
Develop a formal $75,000
response plan for Conceptual
congestion Study Commuters
incidents that affect $250,000 Choice
14 Huntington Drive, -- Detailed Riders Mid/ Long High
in conjunction with Improvement Transit
other affected Plan Dependents
cities, SCAG, (Admin.
SGCOG responsibility)
Stop Improvements
(to complement introduction of fixed or flex-route services)
Review bus stop TBD Commuters
amenities and Examples: Choice
enhance as Shelter $6,000-Riders Near/
15 -- Low
appropriate to add $8,000 Transit Mid
shelters, trash Bench $500-Dependents
cans, etc. $2,000 Visitors
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October 2015
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Time
Market Frame
Segment/ (Near, Technical
Item Type/Proposed Improvement Estimated Population Mid, Risk
4
No. Improvement Details (annual) Cost Served Long) (L, M, H)
Real Time Information
Develop automatic CAD:
vehicle $50,000+
location/computer
aided dispatch AVL:
Outfit buses with Commuters
(CAD/AVL) system $4,000-
emitter. Choice
to enable $6,500/bus
Install control Riders
16 development of Mid High
equipment in Transit
real time next bus
operations Dependents
information app
center Visitors
and signs at bus
stops, and facilitate
incident response
plan
Install information
kiosks at the Commuters
station and key Choice
Dependent on
stops in the City. Riders Near/
17 CAD/AVL $3,000-$5,000 Medium
(An option would Transit Mid
system
be display of Dependents
timetable and other Visitors
static info.)
PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES
Commuters
Support and Choice
TBD
coordinate with Riders Near/
18 -- (Admin. Low
future pedestrian Transit Mid
responsibility)
planning efforts Dependents
Visitors
BICYCLE FACILITIES
Support and
Commuters
coordinate with
Choice
future bicycle TBD
Riders Near/
19 planning efforts to -- (Admin. Low
Transit Mid
provide responsibility)
Dependents
connections
to/from the station
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October 2015
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Time
Market Frame
Segment/ (Near, Technical
Item Type/Proposed Improvement Estimated Population Mid, Risk
4
No. Improvement Details (annual) Cost Served Long) (L, M, H)
Commuters
Bike racks on all Choice
Bike racks on
20 Arcadia Transit $600/bus Riders Near Low
buses
buses Transit
Dependents
Commuters
Choice
Develop or TBD
Riders
21 facilitate a -- (Admin. Mid Medium
Transit
bikeshare program responsibility)
Dependents
Visitors
PUBLIC INFORMATION / MARKETING
Develop
Commuters
information for
Choice
brochures and TBD
Riders
22 website regarding -- (Admin. Near Low
Transit
non-vehicular responsibility)
Dependents
access to the
Visitors
station.
Reach out to senior
Choice
residential and TBD
Riders
23 recreational -- (Admin. Near Low
Transit
centers to provide responsibility)
Dependents
transit information
Choice
Promote a senior TBD
Riders
24 ride training -- (Admin. Near Low
Transit
program responsibility)
Dependents
Develop an
Choice
information effort TBD
Riders
25 aimed at young -- (Admin. Near Low
Transit
adults for late night responsibility)
Dependents
services
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October 2015
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Time
Market Frame
Segment/ (Near, Technical
Item Type/Proposed Improvement Estimated Population Mid, Risk
4
No. Improvement Details (annual) Cost Served Long) (L, M, H)
Commuters
Choice
Participate in TBD
Riders Near/
26 Google Transit -- (Admin. Low
Transit Mid
information system responsibility)
Dependents
Visitors
FARE POLICY
Commuters
Integrate fare
Choice
payment for TBD
Riders Near/
27 Foothill Transit, -- (Admin. Medium
Transit Mid
Metro Bus, and responsibility)
Dependents
Gold Line
Visitors
DEMAND MANAGEMENT
Consider fees for
parking at station,
consistent with TBD Commuters
Near/
28 Metro policy, to -- (Admin. Choice High
Mid
encourage use of responsibility) Riders
multimodal access
options
Facilitate
Commuters
development of a
Choice
carshare program TBD
Riders Mid/
29 for travel between -- (Admin. Medium
Transit Long
station, activity responsibility)
Dependents
centers, and
Visitors
residences
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
5.RECOMMENDATIONS A WAY FORWARD
The commissioning of this study has enabled the city to take a critical view of the current
Arcadia Transit Program and subsequently revisit all program elements within a
framework of enhanced efficiencies and effectiveness. This has been further enabled by
a robust consultative process with both key stakeholders and the community at large.
Based on consideration of existing funding
resources available, the following list of early
improvements focuses on those items that are
considered to be essential for the Gold Line
opening and those that can be done within
existing financial resources (see Table 5.1).
Actual programming of these improvements
will depend on administrative action to
and/or make administrative resources
available for their implementation. Other improvements in Table 4.1 can be considered to
be longer range, pending the availability of additional financial resources.
Early action improvements require a wholesale restructuring of the Arcadia Transit
delivery framework reflecting:
1. a) Eliminate demand-response service and reallocate
general public
revenue hours to alternate delivery schemes.
This will impact the students the most since the largest group of current
riders is the student population. The introduction of fixed-route, fixed-
schedule services would retain the higher grade/older students. Advanced
notice of the service change would allow student riders to plan for other
arrangements.
b) Maintain demand-response/dial-a-ride for older seniors and people with
a disability.
Dial-a-ride services will be provided exclusively for seniors and people with
disabilities.
Develop a targeted marketing strategy explaining public transit alternatives
and people with a disability, in an effort to
provide alternate mobility options. For example, the introduction of fixed-
route, fixed-scheduled (with possible route deviation) services will enable
seniors and people with a disability to travel with no advance booking
requirement, facilitating spontaneous travel.
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ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Coordinate with Access Services for additional service for eligible riders to fill
gaps in service. Fare policy modifications may be needed to address the
difference in costs.
2. The introduction of fixed-route, fixed-scheduled service
Neighborhood Connectivity - to target riders traveling within the City,
providing connectivity to key attractors and generators including residential
areas and schools.
Gold Line Station Connectivity to target commuters/choice riders to/from
the Gold Line Arcadia Station during peak commuting hours
3. The introduction of fixed-route/fixed-scheduled trolley/shuttle service
with route deviation to provide multi-purpose connectivity including:
Gold Line connectivity
Key destinations Santa Anita Park, Westfield Santa Anita Mall, Methodist
Hospital, Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Special event transport
4. The introduction of supplemental operating contracts
(i.e., trolley, shuttle,
to fill any identified gaps
rideshare services)
Contract out the provision of supplemental transportation services:
Procure through a competitive bid process.
o
Prepare RFP document utilizing performance-based criteria for
o
compensation (i.e., include measures of productivity: trips/hour,
$/trip, $/hour, etc.).
Procurement to specify need for trip booking and scheduling
o
technology applications including ability for customers to make trip
requests through both a mobile application as well as by
telephone (may be directly to the driver).
Ensure ability of rideshare services (such as Uber, Lyft,
o
Downtowner, etc.) to bid if they are able to meet prescribed terms
and conditions of contract agreement.
5. Fare Policy Modifications
Suggested $1.00 fare (for newly introduced) fixed-route, fixed-scheduled
(& route deviated) services.
Free fare for eligible seniors and people with a disability on fixed-route
services including the fixed-route/fixed-scheduled, route deviation services.
39
October 2015
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Increase the fare for dial-a-ride service (seniors and people with a
disability).
Explore fare subsidy program for seniors and people with disabilities
6. Administration / Governance:
Undertake detailed service and operational planning addressing the
allocation of revenue (and service) hours, routing, parameters for route
deviations, and performance measures/standards. This planning
endeavor shall reflect:
Concentrations of major trip attractors and generators; and
o
Integration/ coordination with Gold Line, Foothill and Metro transit
o
rail and bus schedules.
Entrepreneurial Partnerships: Pursue discussions with major employers,
destination/trip attractors (i.e., Westfield Santa Anita, Santa Anita Race
Track, etc.) and the Chamber of Commerce specific to entrepreneurial
partnerships and philanthropic opportunities.
Develop high-value marketing campaign bestowing the
o
community and economic importance and benefits of effective
public transit/mobility.
Building on previous stakeholder consultations, explore
o
opportunities for collaborative arrangements in cost-sharing transit
services that may include sponsoring specific routes, hours of
service, etc.
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October 2015
ARCADIA TRANSIT TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Table 5.1 Near-Term Service Improvement Strategies
Estimate Annual
Improvements/Market Served Annual Revenue Time Frame
Cost Hours
Near Term Service Improvements
Eliminate general public demand-response
service
Maintain demand-response/dial-a-ride for
o
March June 2016
1 older adults/seniors and people with a $685,000 10,000
disability
Market Served: Seniors and people with
disabilities
Introduce fixed-route, fixed-scheduled service
Mon.-Fri. 9:00am 4 00pm
o
2 $1,020,000 15,000 March June 2016
Sat. & Sun 7:00am 7:00pm
o
Market Served: General public
Introduce (limited) fixed-route, fixed-scheduled
service - Gold Line Station
3 Mon.-Fri. 6:00am-9:00am & 4:00pm-7:00pm $95,000 1,600 March 5, 2016
o
30-minute service interval
o
Market Served: Commuters/ choice riders
Total* $1,800,000 26,600
Additional Optional Program
Supplemental operating contracts (i.e., taxis -
potential pilot project)
Demand response service for evenings: 7-
o
4 $75,000 1,300 July 2016
days/wk., 7:00pm 11:00pm
Market Served: Commuters, choice riders,
transit dependent
*The level of the near term service improvements is based on the current level of funding for the existing
general public demand-response service which is $1.8 million/year (equivalent of 26,500 revenue hours).
41
October 2015
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Appendix A: Peer System Notes
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
/z·äEC©z·
Folsom Stage Line
The Folsom Stage Line buses run Monday through Friday. There is no weekend service available
at this time.
The local bus routes provide a convenient way for riders to travel to major employers and points
of interest within Folsom.
Folsom Stage Line buses are equipped with a hydraulic lift for wheelchairs, and front-mounted
bike racks are provided.
There are three Folsom Stage Line Routes
There is no charge to transfer from one Folsom Stage Line route to the other.
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Service Characteristics
Markets Served
Net Impact on Congestion
Parking Requirements
Governance
City Transit Division
o
Vehicles are directly operated
o
Regional Connections
Sacramento Regional Transit District Buses & Gold Line Rail
o
El Dorado Transit
o
Fixed Route Fare Information
Adult One-Way $2.50
Adult Ticket Booklet (20 One-Way) $50.00
Student/Senior Discount One-Way $1.25
Student/Senior Discount Monthly Pass $50.00
Student/Senior Discount Ticket Booklet (20 One-Way) $25.00
Children 3 & Under Free
Sac RT Monthly/Daily Passes Accepted
Dial-A-Ride
Dial-A-Ride is a curb-to-curb transportation service that provides residents who have a physical,
developmental, or mental disability, means of commuting within the Folsom city limits.
Senior citizens who are 55 years of age or older also qualify for this program.
Passengers must register and be given verification that they qualify for ridership before they can
ride.
Dial-A-Ride Fare Information
Monthly Pass $95.00
o
One-Way $4.00
o
Ticket Booklet (10 One-Way) $40.00
o
Funding
Fare Revenues (3%)
Local Funds (82%)
State Funds (11%)
Federal Assistance (1%)
Other Funds (2%)
NTD Stats (2011) – Bus Service
Annual Vehicle Revenue Miles: 123,446
Annual Vehicle Revenue Hours: 7,679
Operating Expenses: $864,962
Fare Revenue: $41,254
Fare Box Recovery Ratio: 5%
Annual Unlinked Bus Trips: 51,438
NTD Stats (2011) – Dial-A-Ride
Annual Vehicle Revenue Miles: 55,088
Annual Vehicle Revenue Hours: 3,949
Operating Expenses: $1,756,133
Fare Revenue: $34,165
Fare Box Recovery Ratio: 2%
Annual Unlinked Bus Trips: 10,212
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Lessons Learned
Given Folsom’s medium to low density pattern of development, most residents are commuting to
work with automobiles.
People typically only utilize public transit if the route to access stops is obvious and
o
convenient.
Strategically located bus stops feeding regional rail system can encourage more people to
navigate multiple mode shifts.
For example, walking to a bus stop and boarding the bus that takes the commuter to the
o
nearest rail station.
The design of these stops and their chosen locations greatly influence use of services.
For example installing bus shelters helps shield patrons from wind, sun and rain
o
exposure.
The Sacramento Regional Transit Authority opened ten new light rail stations in the winter of
200506.
This project completed a $230.5 million dollar project to extend the light rail line from the
o
Mather Field/Mills station to the City of Folsom.
Three of the new stations are in Folsom: Historic Folsom, Glenn Drive and Iron Point
o
Stations.
Following completion of the extended light rail, the Folsom Stage Line service changed from a
downtown commuter shuttle to a light rail feeder system
The routes now pick up from the neighborhoods and other pedestrian attractions and
o
connect them to the three light rail stations.
The local bus routes provide a way for riders to travel to major employers and points of
o
interest within Folsom.
The bus routes also connect with the Historic District and Iron Point Road light rail
o
stations.
Any plans for new bus stops should carefully consider location of the stops with respect to
adequate and safe pedestrian access.
For example a bus stop should be located where it can be accessed by crosswalks and
o
sidewalks.
If the stop is located close to an arterial with high traffic volume and speeds, the stop should be
set back to safely buffer bus riders.
Contact Information
Kent Gary, Public Works Section Manager
Phone: (916) 355-8395
Email:kgary@folsom.ca.us
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Gardena Municipal Bus Lines
City of Gardena Transportation Department
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Operates as Enterprise Fund
Municipally Owned
o
The Gardena Municipal Bus Lines (GMBL) is a department within the City that operates
o
as an enterprise fund.
The department is distinguished from other City departments because it is not funded
o
with General Fund monies and operates as an enterprise fund
Vehicle Load
Vehicle load is the ratio of passengers on the vehicle to the number of seats on the bus.
o
GMBL measures the vehicle load at the maximum load point on each route during peak
and off-peak periods. GMBL policy is not to exceed a passenger load to seat ratio of 1.25
for fixed-route services operating in local service, and 1.00 for fixed-route service
operating express service on freeway segments.
Vehicle Headway
Vehicle headway is the measurement of time between buses on a line. GMBL generally
o
operates fixed-route service with vehicle headways between 15-30 minutes during
weekday peak periods, and between 30-60 minutes during weekday off-peak periods and
weekends
On-Time Performance
GMBL defines on-time performance for fixed route bus trips as those trips that depart
o
from a time point location no earlier than the time listed on printed schedules, or arrive at
the time point no later than 5 minutes from the scheduled time. GMBL established an
on-time performance tracking system in July 2013 for monthly monitoring of performance.
Regional Connections
By connecting with the Metro rail system (The Blue and Green Lines), the Metropolitan
o
Transportation Authority (MTA) bus system, and other area municipal bus services, riders
can easily commute throughout the South Bay into downtown Los Angeles and to a
variety of surrounding locations.
GMBL works with neighboring cities and the County of Los Angeles in a joint effort to
o
develop and coordinate a functional regional transportation plan.
Dial-A-Ride
Service
The Gardena's Municipal Bus Lines offers transportation service for senior citizens
o
(elderly) and physically disable (handicapped) residents of Gardena, Hawthorne and the
unincorporated Alondra Park and Del Aire areas of Los Angeles County.
In providing door-to-door demand responsive service, elderly and handicapped citizens
o
can travel to any destination within the service area.
Application
Residents can apply for a Gardena Special Transit identification/certification card by
o
visiting the administrative office of the Gardena Senior Citizens Bureau
Fare
Regular fare for a one-way trip is 75 cents. Legally blind passengers ride free. Riders
o
from the Gardena Senior Citizens Bureau may ride at no charge using S.S.I. tickets.
These tickets may be purchased at the Gardena Senior Citizens Bureau for 50 cents.
The City of Hawthorne sells dial-a-ride tokens to its residents for $0.75. Riders may use
o
these tokens to ride at no-charge; otherwise, the fare is $0.75 one-way.
Hours of service are as follows:
Monday thru Friday from 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m
o
Saturday hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
o
Sunday and Holiday service hours are 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
o
Bus Fares for Fixed Route
Basic Local Fare $1.00
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Transfers $0.40
Seniors Age 62 and Over $0.35
Disabled Citizens $0.35
Students $0.70
Children Under Age 5 Free
Funding
Fare Revenues (17%)
Local Funds (31%)
State Funds (34%)
Federal Assistance (15%)
Other Funds (3%)
NTD Stats (2012) – Bus Service
Annual Passenger Miles: 14,704,106
Annual Vehicle Revenue Miles: 1,671,826
Annual Vehicle Revenue Hours: 116,936
Operating Expenses: $16,547,902
Fare Revenue: $2,864,439
Fare Box Recovery Ratio: 17%
Annual Unlinked Bus Trips: 3,787,640
NTD Stats (2012) – Dial-A-Ride
Annual Passenger Miles: 90,418
Annual Vehicle Revenue Miles: 70,136
Annual Vehicle Revenue Hours: 9,031
Operating Expenses: $763,137
Fare Revenue: $15,284
Fare Box Recovery Ratio: 2%
Annual Unlinked Bus Trips: 26,509
Contact Information
Contact: John "Jack" Gabig - Transportation Director
Phone: 310-965-8888
Emails:customerservice.web@ci.gardena.ca.us;cdd.web@ci.gardena.ca.us
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Irvine iShuttle
Service Information
General Information
Governance
City of Irvine
Regional Connections
OCTA Bus Service
Metrolink – Tustin and Irvine Stations
Amtrak – Irvine Station
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
ACUCI Campus Shuttles
Fare Information
Peak Fare - $1.00
Off-Peak Fare (1-3 p.m. and 7:30-10 p.m.) - $ 0.50
Pre-Paid 10-Ride Card - $5.00
Transfer with Metrolink Pass/Ticket for Rider Connecting to and from a Metrolink Station - Free
Transfer with OCTA Pre-Paid Day Pass or Multi-Day Pass – Free
Statistics
Bus Operating Expenses (FY2013/2014): $2,603,303
Contact Information
Phone: (949) 724-6287
Email: info@irvineshuttle.net
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Laguna Beach Municipal Transit
Laguna Beach Municipal Transit Services
Mainline year-round fixed route system comprised of three routes
Festival Trolley operating for 10 weeks per year during the Summer Festival of Arts
Paratransit service provided for senior citizens through an agreement with the local non-profit
Sally’s Fund
Reduced-fare taxi voucher program: $5. voucher (up to 4 people) Valid Mon.–Sat. 5:30 p.m. to
2:30 a.m. & Sun. 8:00a.m. - 2:30 a.m.
Connections
OCTA - two regional bus routes (1, 89)
o
OCTA ACCESS ADA paratransit service
o
Mainline Service
The Mainline Service consists of three fixed routes operating six days a week, year round. There
is no Mainline Service on Sundays
The Gray route services Top of the World, Laguna Canyon and North Laguna
The Blue route services Arch Beach Heights and Bluebird Canyon
The Red route services Downtown to Ritz Carlton and back along Coast Highway\
Trolley/Bus Tracker Mobile App
The free mobile app introduces several exciting features that enable visitors and residents to
access more of the town.
One popular feature is a "Trolley/Bus Tracker".
Using GPS information, this app tracks the location of the free trolleys in real time.
Users know when their ride will arrive and are able to navigate their way through Laguna Beach
and learn about the City's tourist attractions in a convenient and interactive mobile experience
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Bus Fares
Adults $0.75
Seniors (65 and Older or Disabled) $0.30
Children (Under Age 7) Free
30-Day Pass (Unlimited Rides) $30.00
20-Ride Pass $15.00
20-Ride Pass - For Seniors $6.00
20-Ride Pass - For Low-Income Seniors Free
Free Ride to Work Pass (50 rides) for anyone who is employed in Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach Transfers are honored by Laguna Beach Transit. OCTA all-day pass is valid for
one transfer onto Laguna Beach Transit.
Funding
Fare Revenues (9%)
Local Funds (4%)
State Funds (61%)
Federal Assistance (0%)
Other Funds (26%)
NTD Stats (2012)
Annual Passenger Miles: 1,174,118
Annual Vehicle Revenue Miles: 202,620
Annual Vehicle Revenue Hours: 21,246
Bus Operating Expenses: $2,034,563
Bus Fare Revenue: $179,839
Fare Box Recovery Ratio: 9%
Average Weekday Unlinked Trips: 1,639
Annual Unlinked Bus Trips: 645,298
General Plan Goals
Parking
Plan and develop a peripheral parking program to increase mass transit access to
o
Laguna Beach's visitor-serving beaches and other amenities.
The peripheral parking program shall include an investigation of the concept of shared
o
parking, such as the use of public parking lots and underutilized private parking lots that
could serve as peripheral parking locations.
Some cities (e.g., San Francisco) have adopted regulations that limit off-street parking in
o
order to encourage transit usage.
While it is possible to restrict parking, such regulations could be difficult to enforce and
o
could have unintended consequences such as spillover parking in adjacent
neighborhoods.
Employer Incentives
Encourage all employers to provide incentives for transit ridership (e.g. subsidies for
o
transit use, shuttles to transit stations), ridesharing, vanpools, and other transportation
demand policies designed to reduce vehicle miles traveled.
Such measures shall be required in association with non-residential projects approved
o
with a reduction in the standard parking requirements and/or resulting in a loss of on-site
parking regardless of the size of the development or number of employees.
Develop an incentive program with the Chamber of Commerce for employees who work
o
in the Central Business District.
Building Design
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Encourage the design of new development projects to facilitate transit ridership and
o
ridesharing through such means as locating and designing building entries that are
convenient to pedestrians and transit riders.
Encourage the design and siting of larger commercial and residential developments so
o
that they may be served by existing transit routes and to provide non-automobile
circulation to the greatest extent possible.
Funding for Improvements
Explore funding sources for the maintenance, operation and improvement of the transit
o
system.
Improvements should include the provision of covered passenger shelters and adequate
o
route signage and route schedules.
Disabled/Disadvantaged
Enhance transportation opportunities for the young, elderly, and handicapped by
o
installing lifts, providing priority seating, expanding bicycle carrying capacity and creating
a monthly pass program which reduces fares on a monthly basis.
Bus Turnouts
Require the dedication and improvement of right-of-ways for bus turnouts as a condition
o
of development approval when appropriate.
Advertising
Increase use of the transit system by advertising in local newspapers and cable television
o
networks and promoting the system at major user destinations such as the Senior
Center, the local schools and South Coast Medical Center.
Regional Connectivity
Encourage the improvement of express transit service to and from other cities.
o
Coordinate with the Orange County Transit Authority in an effort to establish a park and
o
ride facility that will alleviate commuter traffic through the community.
Contact Information
Contact: Miri Ago
Phone: (949) 497-0746
Email:mago@lagunabeachcity.net
ARCADIA TRANSIT – TRANSIT SERVICE NEEDS ASSESSMENT & RESTRUCTURING PLAN
Appendix B: Community Survey
[Summary Report]
TECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
Community Survey Results
Prepared for City of Arcadia
by IBI Group
April 17, 2015
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
April 17, 2015
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
Contents
1Introduction.........................................................................................................................1
1.1Overview..................................................................................................................1
1.2Report Objective......................................................................................................1
2Survey Methodology..........................................................................................................2
3Survey Results....................................................................................................................3
3.1Transportation Mode Choice....................................................................................3
3.2Quality of Transit Service.........................................................................................6
3.3Suggested Transit Service Improvements.............................................................10
3.4Future Transit Service Usage................................................................................12
3.5Demographic Data.................................................................................................14
4Summary and Conclusions.............................................................................................16
4.1Key Observations...................................................................................................16
4.2NextSteps.............................................................................................................16
5Appendix............................................................................................................................17
5.1Appendix A: Transit Survey (English)....................................................................18
5.2Appendix B: Transit Survey (Chinese)...................................................................21
5.3Appendix C: Transit Survey Comments.................................................................24
April 17, 2015i
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
List of Figures
Figure 3.1:Transportation Mode Choice and Trip Purpose..........................................................4
Figure 3.2: Quality of Transit Service.............................................................................................7
Figure 3.3:Reasonsfor Not Utilizing Arcadia Transit....................................................................9
Figure 3.4:Suggested Transit Service Improvements.................................................................11
Figure 3.5:Future Transit Service Usage....................................................................................13
Figure 3.6:Demographic Data.....................................................................................................15
April 17, 2015ii
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
1Introduction
1.1Overview
The City of Arcadia is interested in developing a Transit Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan.
The Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan will providethe Citywith an opportunity to enhance
the quality and accessibility of its public transit system. With the opening of the Gold Line extension
andits downtown Arcadia station in early 2016, improving public transit will allow the City to tapinto a
new transit market share among Gold Line patrons, as well asmaintain aneffective transit service that
fits within the San Gabriel Valley regional transportation framework.
As a part of the initial planning process, a community survey was conducted to better understand the
transit needsof the community. The survey wasintended to provide information on travel behavior,
quality of service, and user demographics. Information collected from the survey will be used to
develop the Transit Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan as well as improveexisting transit
service.
1.2Report Objective
The purpose of this report is to detailthe results of a transit user community survey conducted on
behalf ofthe City of Arcadia. The survey was administered through various channelsonlinevia
SurveyMonkeyand in-person pop-up tables to reach community members without internet access.
This report documents the results and key findings of the survey. Results from the survey will be
reviewed as a part of the transit needs assessment process andserve as a foundation for the City’s
Transit Restructuring Plan.
April 17, 20151
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
2Survey Methodology
A community survey was conducted on behalf of the City of Arcadia to better understandthe
qualitative aspects of transit service delivery and the behavioral attributes that impact mode choice.
The survey also provided an opportunity for the community to express their concerns and make
recommendation to improvetransit services.
To ensure maximum participation, surveys were made available to the community for a 30-day period
beginning on Thursday, February 26, 2015 until Friday, March 27, 2015.The method of distribution
included an online survey via SurveyMonkey and in-person pop-up tables at varying site locations to
reach community members without internet access.The in-person site locations included Arcadia City
Hall, the community/senior center,andlibrary. Intercept surveys were also conducted on Arcadia
Transit buses. Communication of the web-based survey was made to the general public via the City of
Arcadia’s website as well as electronic newsletters. Additionally, a Chinese version of the community
survey was also made available.
The community survey consisted ofeight questions targeted to solicit feedback from community
members on their preferred transportation mode choice, typical trip destinations by mode, opinions on
the quality of transit service provided by Arcadia Transit,recommendations onpotential improvements
to transit service, and individual demographic data.
April 17, 20152
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
3Survey Results
Approximately 157responses were collected during the 30-day survey window ending on Friday,
March 27, 2015. Of the 157responses, 56 responses, or 36%, were collected from the paper survey
and 101 responses, or 64%, were collected online from the SurveyMonkey. Additionally, of the 157
responses,149 responsesor 95%were collected from the English survey and 8responses, or 5%,
were collected from the Chinese survey. Although 157responses were collected from the survey, it
should be noted that not all participants answered every survey question.Questions regarding
demographic data such as household income, age of the survey participant, and primary language
spoken at home were the most commonly skippedsurveyquestions.The following sections detailthe
results of the survey.
3.1Transportation Mode Choice
To better understand the travel behavior of the community, the communitysurvey asked participants to
identify whichtransportation mode they or members of their household utilize in a typical week and for
what purpose. The transportation mode choices included: car (as a driver or passenger), Arcadia
Transit, Foothill Transit, Metro Transit Bus, Gold Line, taxi or rideshare service (i.e. Uber, Lyft, etc.),
bicycle, walking, paratransit, Metrolink, or other. Additionally, trip purpose choice optionsincluded:
work, social/recreational, shopping, doctor/medical, school/education, and other. Survey participants
could select more than one mode and more than one trip purposefor this question. Of the 157 survey
responses, 152survey participants answered this question.
The resultsof the survey revealed that automobiles were the most frequently used mode of
transportation in a typical week(for both survey methods)with 130of 152survey participants, or 86%,
identifying this mode choice.In contrast, taxis or rideshare service werethe least frequently used
mode of transportation with9or 6%of participantsidentifying this mode choice.Results of the survey
also indicated that 81or 53%of participantsutilized Arcadia Transit in a typical week. Furthermore,
the survey revealed that Arcadia Transit was commonly used for social/recreationaltrips with
approximately 54% of users identifying this trip purpose.In contrast, worktrips were the least common
trip type with approximately 14% of users identifying this trip purpose.
Figure 3.1 illustrates the results of the survey question and distinguishes the results of the survey
between the two methods of survey delivery.
April 17, 20153
Figure 3.1: Transportation Mode Choice and Trip Purpose
What types of transportation do you or other members of your household use in a typical week and for what
purpose?
PAPER SURVEY RESULTS
Car
39
Arcadia Transit
28
Foothill Transit
8
Metro Transit Bus
10
Gold Line
11
Taxi or Rideshare
5
Bicycle
6
Walk
20
Access ADA Paratransit
7
Metrolink
1
Other
1
ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS
Car
91
Arcadia Transit
53
Foothill Transit
13
Metro Transit Bus
22
Gold Line
28
Taxi or Rideshare
4
Bicycle
15
Walk
46
Access ADA Paratransit
4
Metrolink
6
Other
3
COMBINEDRESULTS
Car
130
Arcadia Transit
81
Foothill Transit
21
Metro Transit Bus
32
Gold Line
39
Taxi or Rideshare
9
Bicycle
21
Walk
66
Access ADA Paratransit
11
Metrolink
7
Other
4
Figure 3.1: Transportation Mode Choice and Trip Purpose(continued)
What types of transportation do you or other members of your household use in a typical week and for what
purpose?
PAPER SURVEY RESULTS
Car
11% 25% 25% 20% 7% 11%
Arcadia Transit
29% 24% 24% 5% 12%
5%
Foothill Transit
30% 20% 10% 10% 30%
Metro Transit Bus
36% 29% 7% 29%
Gold Line
6% 6% 6% 25%
19% 38%
Taxi or Rideshare
22% 22% 11% 44%
Bicycle
14% 29% 14% 43%
Walk
8%
10% 30% 30% 13% 10%
Access ADA Paratransit
17% 8% 42% 8% 25%
Metrolink
33% 17%
50%
WorkSocial / RecreationalShoppingDoctor / MedicalSchool/ EducationOther
ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS
Car
19% 21% 21%
19% 13% 7%
Arcadia Transit
7% 20% 20%17% 25% 11%
Foothill Transit
29% 36%
7% 7% 21%
Metro Transit Bus
47% 27% 7% 3% 7% 10%
Gold Line
24%
51% 15% 2% 2% 5%
Taxi or Rideshare
20% 20% 20% 40%
Bicycle
13% 54% 13% 4% 8% 8%
Walk
8% 40% 23% 9% 11% 10%
Access ADA Paratransit
14% 43% 14% 29%
Metrolink
14% 57% 29%
WorkSocial / RecreationalShoppingDoctor / MedicalSchool/ EducationOther
COMBINEDRESULTS
Car
55% 70% 72% 61% 38% 26%
Arcadia Transit
7% 28% 26% 24% 19% 13%
Foothill Transit
1% 1% 1% 4%
5% 5%
Metro Transit Bus
13% 8% 1% 1% 2% 5%
Gold Line
9% 18% 5% 1% 1% 4%
Taxi or Rideshare
2% 2% 1% 1% 4%
Bicycle
3% 10% 2% 1% 2% 3%
Walk
7% 29% 20% 8% 9% 7%
Access ADA Paratransit
1% 5% 1% 3%
2%
Metrolink
3% 4% 1% 1%
WorkSocial / RecreationalShoppingDoctor / MedicalSchool/ EducationOther
Note: Only 52 participants answered this question throughthe paper survey and 100 participants throughthe online survey.
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
3.2Quality of Transit Service
Understanding the qualitative aspects ofArcadia Transit’s service delivery is important in developing
an effectiveTransit Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan. As a part of the process, the
community survey asked participants to provide feedback on various qualitative factors including:
Convenience of service
Transit travel time
Perceived safetyon transit and waiting for transit
Available transit information
On-time performance
Transit fares
Overall satisfaction of transit service
The results of the survey revealed that Arcadia Transit patrons were generally satisfied with the overall
quality of services. More specifically, the survey results revealed that patrons were the most satisfied
with safety and transit fares. Approximately 64% of survey participants who were also Arcadia Transit
patrons reported that they almost always felt safe on transit or waiting for transit. Additionally,
approximately 74% reported that they almost always felt that transit fares were reasonable.
Figure 3.2 illustrates the results of the survey regarding the quality of Arcadia Transit’s services and
distinguishes the outcomes between the different methods of survey delivery.
April 17, 20156
Figure 3.2: Quality of Transit Service
If you use Arcadia Transit service, what do you think of the transit service?
PAPER SURVEY RESULTS
Service is convenient and easy to book
52% 24% 9% 6%
The travel times are reasonable
45% 24% 3% 6% 15%
I feel safe on the transit service
67% 15% 3% 3% 3%
Transit information is readily available
39% 12% 9% 15% 6%
Transit arrives on schedule
58% 15% 9% 12%
Transit fares are reasonable
3%
67% 9% 12%
I can usually get the trip time that I request
39% 24% 6% 21% 6%
Transfers are convenient
15% 9% 12% 3% 12%
Overall, I am satisfied with the transit service
55% 18% 9% 6% 6%
Almost alwaysOftenUnsureNot very oftenAlmost never
ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS
Service is convenient and easy to book
36% 38% 9% 12% 7%
The travel times are reasonable
45% 29% 10% 14%
I feel safe on the transit service
62% 29% 3% 3%
Transit information is readily available
36% 33% 10% 12% 3%
Transit arrives on schedule
43% 34% 10% 7% 3%
Transit fares are reasonable
78% 19% 2%
I can usually get the trip time that I request
29% 31% 10% 17% 7%
Transfers are convenient
21% 17% 31% 3% 3%
Overall, I am satisfied with the transit service
47% 22%
16% 12% 2%
Almost alwaysOftenUnsureNot very oftenAlmost never
COMBINEDRESULTS
Service is convenient and easy to book
42% 33% 5% 11% 7%
The travel times are reasonable
45% 27% 8% 11% 5%
I feel safe on the transit service
3% 3%
64% 24% 1%
Transit information is readily available
37% 25% 10% 13% 4%
Transit arrives on schedule
48% 27% 7% 8% 7%
Transit fares are reasonable
74% 15% 5% 1%
I can usually get the trip time that I request
33%
29% 9% 19% 7%
Transfers are convenient
19% 14% 24% 3% 7%
Overall, I am satisfied with the transit service
49% 21% 13% 10% 3%
Almost alwaysOftenUnsureNot very oftenAlmost never
Note: Only 33participants answered this question throughthe paper survey and 58participants throughthe online survey.
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
The survey also solicited feedback from participantsthat didnot utilize Arcadia Transit services. A list
of reasons why an individual chose not to useArcadia Transit wasgiven and participants were asked
to select all that applied. The list included options such asadislike for transit, difficulty in booking a
trip, unreliable pick up times, costs, travel time, safety, inconvenient operating times, and confusion
over how to book a trip Arcadia Transit. Additionally, survey participants were also given the
opportunity to state their own reasons for not utilizing the transit service.
Results of the survey revealed thatof the given choices,the most common reason why survey
participants did not useArcadia Transit services was becauseof travel time and reservation difficulties.
Of the 44 survey participants who answered this question, 15 or 34% of participants reported that they
did not use Arcadia Transit becausetravel time was considered too long and theydid not know how to
book a trip.When asked to provide additionalreasons for not usingArcadia Transit, some of the most
prevalentreasons identified by survey participants included:
No need for service, personal automobile used instead for convenience.
Transit service does not allow for same day booking.
Limited transit service in the area.
Figure 3.3 illustrates the results of the survey regarding why survey participants do not use Arcadia
Transit.
April 17, 20158
Figure 3.3: Reasons for Not Utilizing Arcadia Transit
If you do NOT use Arcadia Transit service, why not?
PAPER SURVEY RESULTS
I wouldnt take transit under any circumstances
0
It is too difficult to book a trip
3
Pick up times are not reliable
4
It is too expensive
2
It takes too long to travel
6
Vehicles are too crowded
0
I would not feel safe on or waiting for public transit
1
I dont know how to book a trip
3
Transit doesn't operate when I would want to travel
1
Other
13
ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS
I wouldnt take transit under any circumstances
0
It is too difficult to book a trip
9
Pick up times are not reliable
10
It is too expensive
1
It takes too long to travel
9
Vehicles are too crowded
0
I would not feel safe on or waiting for public transit
2
I dont know how to book a trip
12
Transit doesn't operate when I would want to travel
4
Other
27
COMBINEDRESULTS
I wouldnt take transit under any circumstances
0
It is too difficult to book a trip
12
Pick up times are not reliable
14
It is too expensive
3
It takes too long to travel
15
Vehicles are too crowded
0
I would not feel safe on or waiting for public transit
3
I dont know how to book a trip
15
Transit doesn't operate when I would want to travel
5
Other
40
Note: Only 11participants answered this question throughthe paper survey and 33participants throughthe online survey.
Prevalent responses for the “Other” category included the following (see AppendixCfor complete listing of responses):
No needfor service,personal automobile was usedinstead for convenience.
Transit service does not allow for same day booking.
Limited transit service area.
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
3.3Suggested Transit Service Improvements
Thecommunity survey provided an opportunity for participants to make their own recommendations on
how Arcadia Transit could improve its services. The survey provided a list of improvements that
participants could choose from,such as improvements to the reservation system, providing shuttle
services with fixed stops, providing shuttles services to the Gold Line, extended service hours,
providing a mobile phone app for reservations, and providing services outside of the City.Additionally,
the survey also allowed participants to make their own recommendations for improving the transit
service.
Results of the survey revealed that the most desired transit service improvement was a direct shuttle
service to the Gold Line. Of the 136 survey participants who answered this question, 70 or 52% of
participants selectedthis improvement option. In contrast, the least desirable transit service
improvement was earlier morning transit service, with 37 or27%ofparticipantsselecting this
improvement option. When asked to provide their own recommendations, some of themostcommon
improvement recommendations included:
Senior/disabled patrons often reported problems with transit service availability during school
recess hours and requested that Arcadia Transit provide separate buses for school service
and elderly/disabled passenger service.
Patrons expressed frustration over the reservation system and requested same day
reservations as well as online reservation services.
Expand transit service are to include areas such as the El Monte Bus Station, Temple City,
Pasadena, Monrovia, and the San Gabriel Valley.
Figure 3.4 illustrates the survey results for suggested transit service improvements.
April 17, 201510
Figure 3.4: Suggested Transit Service Improvements
The types of Arcadia Transit service improvements that I would like to see…
PAPER SURVEY RESULTS
Better info on how to use service (e.g. reservations)
14
A fixed stop shuttle bus service (w/o calling in advance)
17
Direct shuttle service to Gold Line
24
Later night service
21
Earlier morning service
13
A mobile phone app that I could use to book a trip
11
Direct bus service to locations outside of the City
25
Other
27
ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS
Better info on how to use service (e.g. reservations)
39
A fixed stop shuttle bus service (w/o calling in advance)
41
Direct shuttle service to Gold Line
46
Later night service
26
Earlier morning service
24
A mobile phone app that I could use to book a trip
55
Direct bus service to locations outside of the City
39
Other
38
COMBINEDRESULTS
Better info on how to use service (e.g. reservations)
53
A fixed stop shuttle bus service (w/o calling in advance)
58
Direct shuttle service to Gold Line
70
Later night service
47
Earlier morning service
37
A mobile phone app that I could use to book a trip
66
Direct bus service to locations outside of the City
64
Other
65
Note: Only 45participants answered this question throughthe paper survey and 91participants throughthe online survey.
Prevalent responses for the “Other” category included the following (see AppendixCfor complete listing of responses):
Provide separate buses for school service and elderly/disabled passenger service to resolve limited transit service availability for seniors
during school recess hours.
Improve the booking/reservation system to include online accessibility.
Expand transit service area to include areas such as the El Monte Bus Station, Temple City, Pasadena, Monrovia, and the San Gabriel
Valley.
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
3.4Future Transit Service Usage
In addition soliciting feedback on transit service improvements, survey participants were also asked
how likely they would utilize Arcadia Transit if the suggested improvements were implemented. This
survey question was asked to gage the likelihood of ridership increase with the aforementioned transit
service improvements. Results of the survey indicated that most participants wouldcertainlyuse
Arcadia Transit if the suggested improvements were implemented, with 78 of 143 survey participants,
or approximately 55%, selecting this choice. Figure 3.5 illustrates the likelihood of ridership increase if
the suggested transit improvements were implemented.
April 17, 201512
Figure 3.5: FutureTransit Service Usage
Please indicate how likely it is that you would use Arcadia Transit based on the improvements you noted in the
previous question.
PAPER SURVEY RESULTS
31
9
4
0 0 0
Would CertainlyWould Likely UseMight UseNot Very LikelyWould Never UseWould Not Make
UseUsea Difference
ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS
47
26
22
3
2
0
Would CertainlyWould Likely UseMight UseNot Very LikelyWould Never UseWould Not Make
UseUsea Difference
COMBINEDRESULTS
78
35
26
3
2
0
Would CertainlyWould Likely UseMight UseNot Very LikelyWould Never UseWould Not Make
UseUsea Difference
Note: Only 44participants answered this question throughthe paper survey and 99participants throughthe online survey.
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
3.5Demographic Data
To better understand the results of the community survey, the survey solicited demographic data from
participants. The survey results indicated that on average, a survey participant lived in a household of
3people and owned 2cars or SUVs. Additionally, most survey participants reported anaverage
household income of $20-$50,000,were between the ages of55 to 64, and primarily spokeEnglish at
home. Demographic results of the survey are illustrated in Figure 3.6 below.
April 17, 201514
Figure 3.6: Demographic Data
PAPER SURVEY RESULTSONLINE SURVEY RESULTS
AVERAGE INCOME
Prefer not toPrefer not to
6%
answeranswer
8%
21%
Under $20,000Under $20,000
29%
32%
8%
$20-$50,000$20-$50,000
25%
7%
$51-$75,000$51-$75,000
30%
16%
12%
5%
$76-$150,000$76-$150,000
PARTICIPANT AGE
4%
4%
7% 7%
4%
Prefer not to answer
4%
Prefer not to answer
2%
13%
Under 18
8%
Under 18
39%
19-24
19-24
6%
25-44
25-44
24%
45-54
45-54
24%
16%
55-64
55-64
65-74
65-74
19%
75 or over
75 or over
20%
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
4Summary and Conclusions
As a part of developing the Transit Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan, residents of the City of
Arcadia were asked to participate in a community survey to determine the local needs for improved
transit services. The survey was delivered online via aSurveyMonkey as well asin person to reach
community members without internet access. Response rate was adequate with 157 survey
participants. The following sectionsdescribe the key observations from the survey and the next steps
of the study.
4.1Key Observations
Survey participants were generally satisfied with the quality of services Arcadia Transit provided. Most
participants felt that the transit agency charged reasonable transit fares and patrons generally felt safe
on the buses. Despite overall satisfaction with the quality of service, survey participants did identify a
number of areasforimprovement. The following are some of the most common service improvement
recommendations requested by survey participants:
Patronsoften reported problems of limited transit services for seniors during school recess
hours and requested that Arcadia Transit reserveseparate buses for school service and
elderly/disabled passenger service.
Due to school service priority, elderly/disabled patrons expressed frustration over inconvenient
and unreliable pick up times.
Patronsexpressed frustration over the booking/reservation system and requested that the
agency allow for same day reservations and consider providingan online reservation system.
Patrons, as well as survey participants who currentlydo notuse the transit service,expressed
a desire for service area expansion to include the El Monte Bus Station, Temple City,
Pasadena, Monrovia, and the San Gabriel Valley.
A majority of survey participants reported that they would like the transit agency to provide a
direct shuttle service to the Gold Line.
Survey participants who did not currently use the transit service reported that they were
unsure how to reserve/book a trip.
A complete listing of comments and recommendations from the survey can be found in Appendix C of
this report.
4.2Next Steps
With the opening of the Gold Line extension and its downtown Arcadia station in early 2016, the City of
Arcadia has a unique opportunity to re-evaluate and improve the quality, accessibility, and
attractiveness of its public transit service so that it can complementthe larger regionaltransportation
network.As the City moves forward with its Transit Needs Assessment and Restructuring Plan,
feedback from community members will beessentialin developing an effective andcomprehensive
plan. The results from thissurvey provide the City with an initial assessment of local transit needs,
whichwill be developedfurther throughfutureinteractive community meetings scheduled to be held
throughout the course of this study.
April 17, 201516
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
5Appendix
April 17, 201517
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
5.1Appendix A: Transit Survey (English)
April 17, 201518
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
We Need Your Input!
Please return your
completed surveyby
March 27, 2015
to the
box or mail to City of Arcadia
Arcadia Transit offers curb-to-curb transportation(Dial-a-Ride),
Transportation Services
responding to individual travel requests as they are received. The
240 W. Huntington Drive,
City is conducting a Needs Assessment that will be used to define
Arcadia, CA 91007
the future of Arcadia Transit and this questionnaire is one way we
For any questions and/or
will seek the public’s input. We want to know your thoughts on
additional comments, please
current transit servicesand areas for improvement that may be
email to:
important to you and our community.
ArcadiaTransit@ArcadiaCA.gov
What you have to say is important in helping to make improvements and plan for the
future. Thank you for your participation.
IN THIS SECTIONWE WANT TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR USE OF TRANSIT AND YOUR TRAVEL PATTERNS.
1. What typeof transportation do youor other members of your householduse in a
typical weekand for what purpose? Please check allthat apply.
Social / Doctor / School/
WorkRecreationalShoppingMedicalEducationOther
a.Car (as Driver or Passenger)
b.Arcadia Transit –(Dial-a-Ride)
c.Foothill Transit
d.MetroTransit Bus
e.Gold Line
f.Regular Taxi or Ride Share
Service (i.e. Uber, Lyft, etc.)
g.Bicycle
h.Walk
i.Access ADA Paratransit
j.Metrolink
k.Other (specify) ______________
___________________________
2.a)If you use Arcadia Transit service,we want to know what you think of the transit
service: (If you donotuse Arcadia Transit, please go to Question 2 b).
Almost Not very Almost
OftenUnsure
alwaysoftennever
a. Service is convenientand easy to book a trip
b. The travel times are reasonable
c. I feel safe on the transit service
d. Transit information is readily available
e. Transit arriveson schedule (are punctual)
f. Transit fares are reasonable
g. I can usually get the trip time that I request
h. Transfers are convenient
i. Overall, I am satisfied with the transit service
1of 2
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
2.b) If you do NOTuse Arcadia Transit service, why not? (Please check allthat apply)
I wouldn’t take transit under any Vehicles are too crowdedTransit doesn’t operate the hours
circumstancesof the day or the days of week
I would not feel safe and
that I would want to travel.
It is too difficult to book a tripsecure on public transit or
Specify___________________
waiting for transit
Pick up times are not reliable
Other (please state)
I don’t know how to book a
It is too expensive
______________________________
trip
It takes too long to travel
3.The types of Arcadia Transit service improvements that I would like to see: (Please
check all that apply)
Better information on how to use Arcadia Transit A mobile phone app that I could use to book
including make a booking/reservation a trip
A shuttle bus service with fixedbus stops that I didn’t Direct bus service to locations outside ofthe
have to phone in advance to pick me upCity -specify location(s)
Direct shuttle service to Gold Line_____________________________________
Later night serviceOther (please state)
Earlier morning service______________________________________
4.Please indicate () how likely it is that you would use Arcadia Transit based on the
improvements you noted in Question 3-above:
Based on the
WouldWould Likely Not Very Would Would Not Make
Might Use
improvements noted
Certainly UseUseLikely UseNever Usea Difference
in Q.3-above
[OPTIONAL]
IN THIS SECTION WE WANT TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AND YOUR HOUSEHOLD.
5.a) How many people live in your household?(b)How many carsor SUVs?
6.Which of the following categories best matches your annual householdincome?
Prefer not to answerUnder$20,000 $20-$50,000 $51-$75,000$76-$150,000over $150,000
7.Which of the following age categories matches yourage?
Prefer not to answerUnder 18 19-24 25-4445-5455-64 65-74 75or over
8.What is the primary language spoken at home?
(please check one)
Prefer not to answerEnglishSpanish Mandarin Other (please specify: ____________)
COMMENTS
____________________________________________________________________________________
2of 2
Thank you for your participation
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
5.2Appendix B: Transit Survey (Chinese)
April 17, 201521
!
2015327
240 W. Huntington Drive,
Arcadia, CA 91007
,
,
ArcadiaTransit@ArcadiaCA.gov
1.
///
a.
b.
c.Foothill
d.Metro
e.
f.(
Uber, Lyft, )
g.
h.
i.
j.Metrolink
k.______________
___________________________
2. a)
2 b
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
1 of 2
2.b)
,
___________________
______________________________
3.
/
-
_____________________________________
______________________________________
4.()3
3
[]
5.a) (b)
6.
$20,000$20-$50,000 $51-$75,000$76-$150,000$150,000
7.
1819-24 25-4445-5455-6465-7475
8.
(
(/)____________)
____________________________________________________________________________________
2of 2
IBI GROUPTECHNICAL MEMO
ARCADIA TRANSIT
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Prepared for City of Arcadia
5.3Appendix C: Transit Survey Comments
April 17, 201524
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
Q3: If you do NOT use Arcadia Transit, why not? - "Other" Responses
#Responses
1
Most of the workers that answer the telephone calls are rude. A few even hangs the call.
2
use own cars for now-may use transit as we age
3
We are just starting to use - very limited experience to date
4
You cannot book on the same day regular people take all the regular time or book automatically!
5
If I had no car, yes, I would use it.
6
My family has not needed it. I do not feel safe letting my children use any public transportation alone.
7
Just quicker to use my car right now and usually travel outside Arcadia
8
Need to drive into neighboring cities
9
haven't had need so far but may have greater need for transportation to arcadia gold line station or for other alternatives
10
not within city boundaries
11
transit does not drop off or pick up students at local schools
12
not needed at this time. will need soon
13
Doesn't go outside the city, even to Duarte, Monrovia, Sierra Madre, or Pasadena
14
I actually never really thought about it.
15
my son sometimes using arcadia transit to get home from school. its always hit or miss
16
Once the train service is in, I would use it.
17
No service to El Monte MTA Terminals
18
At this time I don't need it but will need it in the future to help pick up my children from school when their grandmother
stops driving
19
I work in La Canada and buses would take too long.
20
Not always necessary
21
I have alternatives that work for me, but may be interested for my son in a few years.
22
Seems more convenient to drive (at least locally), since I don't have to plan ahead.
23
If possible, i would love to be able for my daughter to get home from the high school once in a while.
24
No need
25
I was told that it is booked and there was no available space. They placed me on a "waiting list"
26
Because I have a car. However, I believe it is useful for older people who can no longer drive.
27
I haven't had occasion to use the service.
28
Transit does not go far enough for me to take the Gold Line
29
I don't really have a need for it either
30
I'd like to book same day, not 24 hours in advance
31
It doesn't go where I need it. I live in unincorporated area and I don't think it travels there.
32
We are retired and own a car
33
At 86, I am still able to drive, but looking to the future
34
I am not 65 and don't qualify
35
I live in Arcadia County
36
So far very lucky enough to be able to drive
37
Don't need it yet
38
Still frive, but in near future might not be able to
39
I do not live in Arcadia
40
I am still able to drive my own car (age 78).
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
Q4: They types of Arcadia Transit service improvements that I would like to see... - "Other"
Respones
#Responses
1
Pasadena - Washington & Sierra Bonita
2
Pasadena, Siera Madre, Duarte, Monrovia,Temple City
3
to schools
4
separate bus use on children(use school bus) and able cititizens (take regular bus or routine routs) increase bus fare to
$1 for disable and elderly just like other cities. properly secured your disabled passengers and elderly passangers.
5
Pasadena Medical areas service. Also, Arcadia Transit fully staffed.
6
Booking system could use some improvement. I book the rides for my daughter for aftern schooo pick up and I seem to
have to give our addrress every single time. If it appeared with the name given she is a weekly user, it would speed up
the process. Service to the Gold line would be terrific also at prescheduled times of the day perhaps.
7
Priority to elderly and disabled.
8
monrovia, temple city
9
Temple City area that falls within Arcadia School District
10
Doesn't have to be a phone app, but some kind of online requesting service would be nice.
11
I wish I could use Arc. Trans. to go locally out of the city, but I'm not willing to sacrifice their punctuality and good
servicefor it.
12
Medical appointments
13
old Town pasadena or Monrovia Oil Town
14
weekends holidays service
15
Monrovia, San Gabriel
16
Monrovia, Temple City
17
Medical appointments
18
Not picking up school children!
19
I have friends who have tried to book but you are too bust picking up kids at school in the afternoons.
20
Temple City, Pasadena
21
take the kids for school on the early periods
22
Arcadia area that is in the LA County section
23
Monrovia or with in 1/2 mile outside Arcadia
24
School pick-ups should be automatic/regular and NOT need appointments or subscriptions, since they are daily during
the school year. It sure would be helpful to provide a STUDENT discount on ticket books for students just like the
discount that is offered to the seniors and handicapped!
25
Monrovia, Temple city, Sierra Madre
26
Pasadena
27
el monte, alhambra, monterey park
28
bus service to local schools for students
29
Fixed stops to Santa Anita Mall. Direct service to Hastings Ranch Shopping Center, and to Hastings Village
30
nearby cities
31
El Monte MTA Station
32
To neighboring cities like Monrovia, San Gabriel, Pasadena
33
Places just outside Arcadia's borders (Trader Joe's, Hastings Ranch Plaza)
34
To El Monte Bus station
35
doctor apts in pasadena
36
Temple City, Monrovia, Pasadena
37
To Metro Station
38
Better afternoon service between 2-5.
39
Monrovia High School, Sierra Madre Blvd, Baldwin
40
Feel more safe
41
Temple City library, McDonald's; a website to book a transit
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
Q4: They types of Arcadia Transit service improvements that I would like to see... - "Other"
Respones
#Responses
42
Monrovia Gold Line on Myrtle; Be able to call morning of for afternoon or call evening for next morning, or do it online
24/7.
43
Temple City High School
44
PCC, Sierra Madre Station, KP, El Monte Station
45
To the Kohl's and Trader Joe's shopping center where there are restaurants.
46
Trader Joe's and Kohl's either in Monrovia Center or San Gabriel (LA County), Temple City, East Pasadena, Sears, LA
Fitness
47
Sierra Madre/Monrovia/Temple City/East Pasadena; I still would like the pick ups and drop offs the way that they are
now.
48
Medical buildings in Duarte, Monrovia
49
Monrovia, Huntington Drive, Myrtle St
50
Online access to booking
51
Pasadena - Temple City
52
Service to include all Arcadia addresses even those not within city limit.
53
Want them to at least go into the Arcadia County
54
Huntington Memorial
55
Sears location/Gold Line; More shared rides
56
San Gabriel, Pasadena
57
Pasadena, Monrovia, Rosemead
58
San Gabriel
59
Pasadena
60
Monrovia, Foothill Blvd, Northeast Pasadena
61
Pasadena
62
On time pick up
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
Q11 Comments
#Responses
1We truly appreciate all your services and desire to improve the
2It would certainly be a blessing to be able to visit doctors and
sense of more freedom.
3Please separate ride and bus for your children school ride and a
the routine ride for your non handicapped passengers. The fundi
4Note: We use the transit service because one of us is now wheelc
wheelchair access.
5We like Arcadia Transit very much and value the service. Some im
calls would be very helpful.
6Place more covers over Bus Stop Benches and better lighting of t
7The city should allocate more funding to Arcadia Transit for bet
service will improve the traffic during school pick up hours and
8Thank you for this service.
9I'm no longer driving, so have depended on this service and Acce
should be applauded because they consistently provide outstandin
It's frustrating when my ride time cannot be met, especially du
even when making reservations 1 week in advance. I'd like to see
on weekends.
10This is a very good service for Arcadia.
11It would be nice if Arcadia was more pedestrian-friendly with lo
way in to major sites such as the mall.
12Your transit service seems like it only caters to the high schoo
13For me personally, its mostly the 'phone in advance to pick me u
stopped using this service. Its easier to just my own transits.
forgive, no need to put up with worrying about my personal resid
worker that hung the calls. I do not feel safe letting the work
handle my personal addresses. Thanks for asking.
14I would like transit drop off at schools in the morning before 9
times because I can almost never get the times I want. The trans
15We haven't needed much of the public transportation yet, but wil
driving.We're grateful that it will be there for us.
16As indicate earlier, we are just starting to use AT since my spo
should not be used to pick up students. That's the responsibilit
17Haven't had to use; might use in future; have heard many complai
children should never come before seniors and handicapped
18having a regular bus route I would take you down Huntington Driv
drive to the race track next stop would be the mall then go down
and do a route like that would be nice.I noticed all these buses
around they are consuming a lot of gas.it would be nice to buy s
could have more vehicles to comity people that need to go to spe
limited.people should not be allowed to make reservations we sho
Buy small vans That accommodate ADA
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
Q11 Comments
#Responses
19With the new Gold Line station, I really feel that the City need
points to get residents to and from the station. I feel that wi
be used more, but that City Transit would as well. I know a lot
parking lot at the station. Especially in light of the fact tha
would be a deterrent for me.
20As I previously mentioned, I feel your service is for seniors an
as a school bus!
21I do appreciate that Arcadia offers this service to the communit
school age, use any form of public transportation alone. In gro
teens would use this form of transportation. I do not even know
22I like this transit service.it is very helpful for me,because I
23
although i called at the same day for pick up my son from the sc
24I'm a caregiver of the homeowner and I dont drive. I would like
doctors appointment, shopping, going to restaurant etc. Hoping u
25I have to be on the phone an average of 10mins before I am done
my mom. Pick up time is never available before 8am even when I
scheduled the pick up at 8am, sometimes the transit don't come u
tell me my schedule time was at 8:15am which is not possible bec
after 8am. They loses records and I have to repeat information
information would be repeat back to me. What I used to think wa
let me down and my mom down. Since the Arcadia is very unreliab
future.
26I think this is a great service for those who can't drive. I wil
27Thank you for your service to students at all our Arcadia school
your reliability and dependability...we appreciate this service
28Make this happen and I would willing to drive, ie. Lift type ass
29Could Arcadia transit use smaller and more fuel efficient vehicl
30I am a great fan of Arcadia Transit. As I no longer can drive,
31service to Gold Line in Arcadia would be great.
32Arcadia transit is convenient & affordable Our family use it oft
the road when you don't own a private car and I feel safe using
33Arcadia transit is convenient & affordable Our family use it oft
the road when you don't own a private car and I feel safe using
34Arcadia transit is convenient & affordable Our family use it oft
the road when you don't own a private car and I feel safe using
35I remember when I had to go to get my car serviced years ago in
But I had to walk several blocks with 2 young children and a bab
to get the shuttle. I waited for several minutes for the shuttle
all the while trying to make sure my 3 kids were safe..
36In a couple of years my girls plan to use Arcadia Transit from A
37People who handle the scheduling of the bus are sometimes rude a
time. sometime it takes more than 5 minutes to arrange a ride an
the service.
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
Q11 Comments
#Responses
38My mother used to live in Arcadia and was wheelchair bound and A
commute, but hope that people who work at businesses in Arcadia
39Hope improvements come sooner
40Would definitely consider taking Arcadia Transit to MTA El Monte
schedule available.
41Thank you
42I believe this is a great service to the community. Thank you.
43We are planning to use Arcadia transit when we retire in the nea
44Arcadia Transit is ideal as an emergency/special need service. I
no ride, Arcadia Transit is ideal to take me home, etc. I wouldn
45Thank you!
46The main barrier I have to Arcadia Transit is the time spent on
appointment. It's very tedious to be put on hold while the oper
need an online system where appointments can be seen, and users
appointment slots themselves.
47It was very difficult and disappointing for me not to be ale to
daughter's commute to and from Holly Elementary. I hope she can
to and from Dana Middle School. Thank you for making the necessa
48It is almost impossible to secure transportation in the afternoo
transit buses are utilized for school buses.
49As the population ages, better public transportation will be nee
50
provide student monthly discount fare that will make my kids use this transit service frequently
51
We hope the frequency of the transit can be imporved, and the transit can have more people to use and be beneficial.
52It is impossible to get reasonable times for afternoon medical a
noon, I was offered a 9am pick up if I wanted to be on time and
ahead - not at the last minute. This has happened even when I'v
53I love using D.A.R. #1- I'm a senior and appreciate the $0.25 fa
excellent! All drivers are friendly and skilled and the dispatch
cares.
54Love the transit. Great people all around. I love Lupe!
55For student go home trip always late to arrival home over 1 hour
school pick up, always said "No Car."
56I tried to get info about where the transit went and I got a mos
me if it went to the nearest Gold Line station (which was not in
57Thanks for the questionnaire
58Transit services from major location/crossroads. Example: Sunset
useful.
Arcadia Transit Questionnaire
Q11 Comments
#Responses
59I am an 89 year old widow with eye problems and unable to drive
basis and their drivers are wonderful and so polite. My one com
arranging rides in the afternoon due to the fact that they have
appointment at 1:30 and of course could not tell them a return t
was told it would be 1 hour and 5 minutes before they would pick
One day I called at 7:15am and was told they would get me to my
me up, again due to the early discharge of the school kids. I w
tell me how long I would have to wait. I think there needs to b
who cannot drive. Why do you need to transport school kids when
60Arcadia Transit is reliable usually on time, courteous, helpful
for Arcadia!
61Drivers are excellent, but there aren't as many as before becaus
to get rides when kids are dismissed from school. I am in a whee
forward to having the option of travelling out of Arcadia by opt
concern is that if certain blocks of ride times in the city will
be vying for trips to the station so they can use Metro to go an
what happens on week days during the school year, when from the
transporting students. I urge you to consider this dilemma and
Arcadia Transit for getting to scheduled activities and medical
a certain number of vehicles that are specifically designated fo
passengers.
62Great Service! All good drivers!
63I have a Metro senior TAP card and have not renewed it. I am not
Renewal should be automatic. Tom Joyce SR5 Expired 5/31/2014.
64Metro senior TAP card must be renewed periodically even though n
65Because I live in the County they won't pick me up and I have he
walking alone. Have no other way I can get around, but I live i
66If I did have a need to use Dial-A-Ride, I wouldn't know how to
could go in the Arcadia newsletter sent to our homes (quarterly/
67I love Arcadia Transit, the drivers are so competent, skilled in
clerks try to match needs very well.
68Should go to country area of Arcadia
69Arcadia Transit is excellent as compared to other cities.
70I prefer public transportation, but safety is a huge issue, bot
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