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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1. Director's Report_09.2021Page 1 of 2 Director’s Report September 28, 2021 STREAMLINE: FY2021-22 Funding: Streamline was awarded three heavy duty transit buses from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) grant application submitted in March. The specifications will be sent out for approval in the near future, then MDT will begin the procurement process. One bus was awarded from the 2020 MDT grant application, so all four buses will be ordered together and delivery is expected to be 18 months from that time. New Route Implementation: The new routes began August 16th, and like many other industries, retention and hiring employees is a big challenge. Due to a driver shortage, the following services are suspended at this time: ½ hour frequency (3 routes), the Brownline on weekends, and LateNight. The new easy-to-read and understand route schedules and maps are available to the public, however, the printed schedules have intentionally been delayed as specific bus stop locations are being finalized. The Blueline and Goldline are popular routes among MSU students, staff, and faculty and Brownline gets a lot of ridership between the two high schools. Purpleline also has a lot of high school student ridership and Pinkline has new riders and also has provided some access to the airport (even without a stop located there). Outreach: August was Streamline month and there was much to celebrate! The launch of the new routes was kicked off with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (see pictures here) at Gallatin Regional Park (Brownline stop). “15 Years of Zero-Fare Service” was the theme at this year’s annual Streamline BBQ. These achievements gained a lot of media attention, helping to spread the message about the new routes, and a thank you Letter to the Editor from Norris Blossom (Associated Students of MSU President) was recently published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle. COVID-19: Last year the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued a security directive requiring that face masks are worn on all public transportation systems, it has been extended until January 18, 2021. The additional safety protocols still remain in place as well. Fleet Condition: Major Takeaways: There are 11 buses in good status, three that are waiting to be repaired, and one spare/parts bus. The new routes require 8 buses during the peak hours (without any suspended routes) until the winter (October - April) when the seasonal Livingston route is operating. Page 2 of 2 Director’s Report (continued) September 28, 2021 GALAVAN: FY2021-22 Funding: Galavan was awarded one 13 passenger bus from the MDT grant application submitted in March. The specifications will be sent out for approval in the near future, then MDT will begin the procurement process. Typically the bus is delivered approximately a year after being awarded, pending no delays from the manufacturer. COVID-19: As a reminder, Galavan, as the paratransit service, is also required to follow the TSA security directive. The additional safety protocols still remain in place. July/August Rides: Galavan added 34 new customers and provided 3,560 rides in 51 days; during the same period last year 2,027 rides were provided. More ride requests and new customers are added regularly and there is a driver vacancy, so drivers are working full shifts to provide essential rides for residents of Bozeman, Belgrade, and Three Forks. Fleet Condition: Major Takeaways: There are two buses in the shop for repairs, the 2009 Dodge sprinter bus needs a couple of parts replaced, however, the parts are difficult to find since Mercedes no longer owns Dodge. The other bus that is down for repairs needs work done to the wheelchair lift. Overall, the fleet is in good condition and there are two minivans that can be used if necessary.