Supervisor Vito Chiesa, Chair, Stanislaus County Alternate Richard O’Brien, City of Riverbank Councilmember Patrick Hume, Vice-Chair, City of Elk Grove Alternate Don Nottoli, Sacramento County Supervisor Scott Haggerty, Vice-Chair, Alameda County Alternate Melissa Hernandez, City of Dublin Councilmember Kevin Romick, City of Oakley Alternate David Hudson, City of San Ramon Supervisor Rodrigo Espinoza, Merced County Alternate Daron McDaniel, Merced County Supervisor Bob Elliott, San Joaquin County Alternate Doug Kuehne, City of Lodi Supervisor Doug Verboon, Kings County Alternate Martin Devine, City of Hanford Supervisor Brett Frazier, Madera County Alternate Andrew Medellin, City of Madera Supervisor Sal Quintero, Fresno County Alternate Rey Leon, City of Huron Supervisor Amy Shuklian, Tulare County Alternate Bob Link, City of Visalia
CONFERENCE CALL AGENDA November 20th, 2020 – 9:00 AM Call-In Information: 1 (408) 650-3123 Conference Access Code: 988-487-893 GoToMeeting Link: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/988487893 SPECIAL NOTICE Coronavirus COVID-19
In accordance with the Governor’s Executive Orders N-25-20, N-29-20 and N-35-20, San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Board Members will be attending this meeting via teleconference. Members of the public may observe the meeting by dialing 1 (408) 650- 3123 with access code: 988-487-893 or log-in using a computer, tablet or smartphone at GoToMeeting.com using link: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/988487893.
Please note that all members of the public will be placed on mute until such times allow for public comments to be made. If a person wishes to make a public comment during the meeting, to do so they must either 1) use GoToMeeting and will have the option to notify SJJPA staff by alerting them via the “Chat” function or they can 2) contact SJJPA staff via email at [email protected] in which staff would read the comment aloud during the public comment period. Public comments will be limited to two (2) minutes per comment and no more than 240 words.
This Agenda shall be made available upon request in alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. § 12132) and the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code § 54954.2). Persons requesting a disability related modification or accommodation in order to participate in
the meeting should contact San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission staff, at 209-944-6220, during regular business hours, at least twenty-four hours prior to the time of the meeting. All proceedings before the Authority are conducted in English. Any writings or documents provided to a majority of
the Authority regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at the offices of the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission located at 949 E. Channel Street, Stockton, California, 95202 during normal
business hours or by calling (209) 944-6220. The Agenda and meeting materials are also available on the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Website: http://www.sjjpa.com/Home
1 Call to Order, Pledge of Allegiance, Roll Call Chair Chiesa 2 Consent Calendar Chair Chiesa 2.1 Approve Minutes from September 25th, 2020 Board Meeting CTION A 2.2 Approve 2021 SJJPA Board Meeting Calendar ACTION 2.3 Next Board Meeting Location INFORMATION 2.4 SJJPA Operating Expense Report INFORMATION 2.5 Administrative Items INFORMATION
3 Public Comments Chair Chiesa Persons wishing to address the Authority on any item of interest to the public regarding SJJPA and the San Joaquin Rail Service shall state their names and addresses and make their presentation. The Authority cannot take action on matters not on the agenda unless the action is authorized by Section 54954.2 of the Government Code. If a person wishes to make a public comment
during the meeting, to do so they must either 1) use GoToMeeting and will have the option to notify SJJPA staff by alerting them via the “Chat” function or they can 2) contact SJJPA staff via email at [email protected] in which staff would read the comment aloud during the public comment period. Public comments will be limited to two (2) minutes per comment and no more than 240 words. GoToMeeting.com using link: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/988487893.
4 Recognition of SJJPA Board Members’ Service Stacey Mortensen INFORMATION
5 Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Dan Leavitt ACTION Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Approving an Initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) and California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) Outlining Roles and Responsibilities Regarding Interim Service Operations on the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Segment and Integration with Existing Intercity and Regional Rail Systems
6 Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Brian Schmidt/ ACTION Joaquin Joint Power Authority Approving Agreements Autumn Gowan with Caltrans for the Truck Overhaul Project and Other Future Projects Related to the State Owned Rolling Stock Maintenance and Overhaul Work and Authorizing the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) to Perform the Procurement, Contracting, Reporting, and Project Management on behalf of SJJPA and Authorizing the Executive Director to Execute Any and All Documents Related to the Projects
7 San Joaquins Operations and Ridership/Revenue David Lipari INFORMATION Update
8 Update on San Joaquins Thruway Bus Network Paul Herman INFORMATION
9 Update on Hispanic Outreach during COVID-19 Rene Gutierrez INFORMATION
10 Update on San Joaquin Valley Rail Committee Rene Gutierrez INFORMATION
11 Update on Valley Rail Program Kevin Sheridan INFORMATION
12 Executive Director’s Report Stacey Mortensen INFORMATION
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13 Board Member Comments Chair Chiesa
14 Adjournment
3 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY Meeting of November 20, 2020
Item 2.1 ACTION
Minutes of SJJPA Board September 25, 2020
The regular meeting of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) was held at 9:00 AM on September 25, 2020 in accordance with the Governor’s Executive Orders N-25-20, N-29-20 and N- 35-20. The San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Board Members attended this meeting via teleconference.
1 Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance/Roll Call Vito Chiesa, Chair of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA), called the meeting to order at 9:00 AM. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Chair Chiesa.
Board Members Present: Chair Chiesa, Vice-Chair Hume, Vice-Chair Haggerty, Espinoza, Frazier, Romick, Shuklian, Verboon, Alternate Leon and Alternate Kuehne.
2 Consent Calendar 2.1 Approve Minutes from May 29, 2020 Board Meeting ACTION 2.2 Next Board Meeting Location INFORMATION 2.3 SJJPA Operating Expense Report INFORMATION 2.4 Administrative Items INFORMATION
There was no Board discussion on this item.
M/S/C (Romick/Shuklian) to approve Items 2.1-2.4. Passed and Adopted by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority on September 25, 2020, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: 10 Chair Chiesa, Vice-Chair Hume, Vice-Chair Haggerty, Espinoza, Frazier, Romick, Shuklian, Verboon, Alternate Leon and Alternate Kuehne NOES: 0 ABSTAIN: 0 ABSENT: 0
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3 Public Comments
Vice Chair Haggerty announced that Alameda County Transit Authority (ACTC) approved shifting $400 million from Bay Area Regional Transit (BART) to the Tri-Valley - San Joaquin Valley Regional Rail Authority Valley link project and thanked SJJPA staff for the continued support of the Valley Link project.
Mike Barmbaum thanked SJJPA staff and consultant HDR Inc. for conducting an informative Stockton Diamond Grade Separation project virtual scoping meeting earlier in September.
4 Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint ACTION Powers Authority Authorizing the Chair to Execute an Amendment to the 2020 San Joaquins Intercity Passenger Rail Service Operating Agreement with Amtrak to: a. Revise the 2020 Appendix D Annual Payment to $40,139,950 b. Revise the Continuation Clause to Eliminate the 3% Escalation Component c. Adopt 2021 Restricted Service Levels Related to COVID-19 d. Adopt 2021 Appendix D Annual Payment of $43,469,946 Executive Director, Stacey Mortensen, did a presentation on this item. The content of Ms. Mortensen’s presentation is summarized in the Board Briefing Materials and in the PowerPoint slides for this agenda item (available on the SJJPA website). There was no Board discussion on this item.
M/S/C (Romick/Frazier) to approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Authorizing the Chair to Execute an Amendment to the 2020 San Joaquins Intercity Passenger Rail Service Operating Agreement with Amtrak to: a. Revise the 2020 Appendix D Annual Payment to $40,139,950
Passed and Adopted by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority on September 25, 2020 by the following vote to wit:
AYES: 10 Chair Chiesa, Vice-Chair Hume, Vice-Chair Haggerty, Espinoza, Frazier, Romick, Shuklian, Verboon, Alternate Leon and Alternate Kuehne 5 of 57 NOES: 0 ABSTAIN: 0 ABSENT: 0
Member Hume motioned to approve resolution parts b, c and d simultaneously.
M/S/C (Hume/Verboon) to approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Authorizing the Chair to Execute an Amendment to the 2020 San Joaquins Intercity Passenger Rail Service Operating Agreement with Amtrak to:
b. Revise the Continuation Clause to Eliminate the 3% Escalation Component c. Adopt 2021 Restricted Service Levels Related to COVID-19 d. Adopt 2021 Appendix D Annual Payment of $43,469,946.
Passed and Adopted by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority on September 25, 2020, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: 10 Chair Chiesa, Vice-Chair Hume, Vice-Chair Haggerty, Espinoza, Frazier, Romick, Shuklian, Verboon, Alternate Leon and Alternate Kuehne NOES: 0 ABSTAIN: 0 ABSENT: 0
5 Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint ACTION Powers Authority Approving Amendment 01 to Agreement 19-J-03-25-0-00 with AECOM to Increase the Total Compensation Amount by $50,000 for the Completion of Project Development Consulting Services for Madera Station Relocation Project, Revised Total Contract Amount Not-To-Exceed $416,000 and Authorizing the Executive Director to Execute Any and All Documents Related to the Project Dan Leavitt did a presentation on this item. The content of Mr. Leavitt’s presentation is summarized in the Board Briefing Materials and in the PowerPoint slides for this agenda item (available on the SJJPA website). Member Frazier commended SJJPA staff and AECOM staff for the positive public outreach performed to date.
M/S/C (Frazier/Espinosa) Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Approving Amendment 01 to Agreement 19-J-03-25-0-00 with AECOM to Increase the Total Compensation Amount by $50,000 for the Completion of Project Development Consulting Services for Madera Station Relocation Project, Revised Total Contract Amount Not-To-Exceed $416,000 and Authorizing
6 of 57 the Executive Director to Execute Any and All Documents Related to the Project. Passed and Adopted by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority on September 25, 2020 by the following vote to wit:
AYES: 10 Chair Chiesa, Vice-Chair Hume, Vice-Chair Haggerty, Espinoza, Frazier, Romick, Shuklian, Verboon, Alternate Leon and Alternate Kuehne NOES: 0 ABSTAIN: 0 ABSENT: 0
6 San Joaquins Operations and Ridership/Revenue Update INFORMATION David Lipari did a presentation on this item. The content of Mr. Lipari’s presentation is summarized in the Board Briefing Materials, and in the PowerPoint slides for this agenda item (available on the SJJPA website). Mike Barmbaum addressed the SJJPA Board and announced Amtrak long distance trains will be operating three days a week in the near future. Vice-Chair Haggerty left the meeting at 9:49 am. There were no Board Member comments.
7 Update on San Joaquins Thruway Bus Network INFORMATION Paul Herman did a presentation on this item. The content of Mr. Herman’s presentation is summarized in the Board Briefing Materials and in the PowerPoint slides for this agenda item (available on the SJJPA website). Mr. Barmbaum asked if additional Route 9 roundtrips to-and-from Bakersfield to Las Vegas will be available soon due to the new interlined funding agreement. Mr. Herman stated additional Route 9 roundtrips are not likely due to limited funding available and COVID-19 social distancing protocols in place that reduces ridership potential. There were no Board Member comments.
8 Update on Turlock-Denair Station Bus Loop Project INFORMATION Rene Gutierrez did a presentation on this item. The content of Mr. Gutierrez’s presentation is summarized in the Board Briefing Materials and in the PowerPoint slides for this agenda item (available on the SJJPA website).
7 of 57 There were no Board Member comments.
9 Update on Valley Rail Program INFORMATION
Kevin Sheridan did a presentation on this item. The content of Mr. Sheridan’s presentation is summarized in the Board Briefing Materials, and in the PowerPoint slides for this agenda item (available on the SJJPA website).
David Schonbrunn, President of Train Riders Association, addressed the SJJPA Board with concerns and provided a series of suggestions for SJJPA staff to improve transit connectivity regionally and into the Sacramento Valley Station. Mr. Schonbrunnn announced a meeting with SJJPA staff is scheduled to discuss concerns and discuss transit connectivity options. Executive Director Ms. Mortensen acknowledged she has a scheduled meeting with Mr. Schonbrunn.
There were no Board Member comments.
10 September Rail Safety Month Update INFORMATION
Freddy Rodriguez did a presentation on this item. The content of Mr. Rodriguez’s presentation is summarized in the Board Briefing Materials and in the PowerPoint slides for this agenda item (available on the SJJPA website).
Chair Chiesa asked SJJPA staff to share the video link with Board members to promote individually on social media platforms.
11 Executive Director’s Report INFORMATION
Ms. Mortensen stated that SJJPA Chair Chiesa and SJRRC Chair Fugazi have met initially with California High Speed Rail Authority to discuss initial high- speed rail service impediments, opportunities and planning for next steps.
12 Board Member Comments
There were no Board Member comments.
13 Adjournment
Chair Chiesa called the meeting to adjournment at 10:41 AM.
8 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 2.2 ACTION
Approve 2021 SJJPA Board Meeting Calendar
Background: Staff recommends the following calendar for 2021 SJJPA Board Meetings:
• January 22, 2021 • March 26, 2021 • May 21, 2021 (Note: May 28th is the Friday before Memorial Day) • July 23, 2021 • September 24, 2021 • November 19, 2021 (Note: November 26th is the Friday after Thanksgiving)
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation: Approve 2021 SJJPA Board Meeting Calendar.
9 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 2.3 INFORMATION
Next Board Meeting Location
Background: SJJPA will hold the next Board Meeting on January 22, 2021, with the exact location to be determined based on availability. The meeting time will be coordinated with the San Joaquins schedule and in accordance with Federal, State and local ordinances related to COVID-19.
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation: Advise on the next Board Meeting location.
10 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 2.4 INFORMATION
SJJPA Operating Expense Report
Please see the attached SJJPA Operating Expense Report for the following period:
• Fiscal Year Start 2020/21 (July 1, 2020 - September 30, 2020)
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation: This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
11 of 57 San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Operating Expense Report September 2020 25% of Budget Year Elapsed
SJJPA EXPENSE YTD FY 20-21 TO PERCENT OPERATING EXPENSES ALLOCATION DATE EXPENDED
Administrative Expenses Salaries/Benefits/Contract Help 2,361,112 382,411 16% Office Expense 24,517 1,559 6% Subscriptions/Periodicals/Memberships 5,000 - 0% Computer Systems 5,000 - 0% Communications 28,977 2,104 7% Motor Pool 29,779 1,593 5% Transportation/Travel 40,000 - 0% Training 7,605 - 0% Audits Regulatory Reporting 17,000 750 4% Professional Services Legislative 34,486 6,250 18% Professional Services Legal 75,000 14,229 19% Professional Services General 281,015 36,713 13% Professional Services Grants 67,000 - 0% Publications/Legal Notices 10,000 - 0% Professional Services Operations 20,000 3,584 18% Communications, Operations 11,016 2,147 19% Maintenance of Headquarters Structures/Grounds 109,623 19,761 18% Insurance 93,850 10,807 12% Insurance Management Fees 2,500 - 0% Security Services/Safety Program 24,109 12,055 50% Administrative Expenses Subtotal 3,247,589 493,963 15% Marketing Expense Marketing & Outreach 2,410,000 210,344 9% Marketing Expenses Subtotal 2,410,000 210,344 9% Amtrak Contract Expense San Joaquin Intercity Rail Operations (All Contracts) 60,205,207 7,614,190 13% Amtrak Contract Expense Subtotal 60,205,207 7,614,190 13%
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 65,862,796 8,318,497 13%
12 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 2.5 INFORMATION
Administrative Items
Media Stories: Attached are several articles. Links are provided below.
“You can once again wait for an Amtrak train inside the Modesto station and 3 others – The Modesto Bee” https://www.modbee.com/news/coronavirus/article246176915.html
“ACTC Approves $400 Million For Valley Link- Press Release” https://patch.com/california/livermore/actc-approves-400-million-valley-link
“Oakley, transportation officials announce new Amtrak Train Station platform – Contra Costa Herald” http://contracostaherald.com/oakley-transportation-officials-announce-new-amtrak-train- station-platform/
“Amtrak Preps for Holiday w/ Safety Measures & Early Bookings- Martinez Tribune” https://martineztribune.com/2020/11/11/amtrak-preps-for-holiday-with-safety-measures-early- bookings/
“OP-ED: Transparent and responsive cost sharing is the key ingredient for intercity passenger rail – Mass Transit” https://www.masstransitmag.com/rail/blog/21160449/oped-transparent-and-responsive-cost- sharing-is-the-key-ingredient-for-intercity-passenger-rail
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation: This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
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You can once again wait for an Amtrak train inside the Modesto station and 3 others
BY JOHN HOLLAND OCTOBER 04, 2020
Amtrak medical chief explains coronavirus safety measures on trains, in stations Enhanced cleaning, more space for physical distancing, travel flexibility and a contact-free travel experience are Amtrak's new standard of travel during coronavirus pandemic, says Amtrak Medical Director Dr. Ann Kuhnen. BY AMTRAK Enhanced cleaning, more space for physical distancing, travel flexibility and a contact-free travel experience are Amtrak's new standard of travel during coronavirus pandemic, says Amtrak Medical Director Dr. Ann Kuhnen. BY AMTRAK
Amtrak is reopening station interiors in Modesto and three other cities as of Monday, Oct. 5.
The buildings had closed because of COVID-19 in late March, but trains still stopped at the platforms. The other stations are Merced, Fresno and Hanford, part of the Amtrak San Joaquins route between Bakersfield and Oakland.
The line will continue to have four daily round trips, down from five before the pandemic. And the two trains to Sacramento are still handled by buses as Amtrak deals with sharply reduced income.
STATIONS HAVE COVID-19 SAFEGUARDS Passengers will again be able to check baggage and purchase tickets at the four stations, but cash will not be accepted out of concern for virus transmission. Online reservations are urged.
Face coverings and social distancing are required in the stations and on the platforms. Amtrak also has reduced the number of riders in each car and stepped up the cleaning of surfaces.
The reopened stations have these hours seven days a week:
• Modesto: 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. • Merced: 10:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. • Fresno: 5:45 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. • Hanford: 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The other 14 stations on the route have remained open. They include Turlock/Denair, which has a platform but no building.
‘SAFE AND RELIABLE SERVICE’
14 of 57 The service is managed by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority on freight tracks belonging to the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway.
“Our primary ongoing commitment is providing a safe and reliable service to our communities and essential travelers,” Executive Director Stacey Mortensen said in a news release.
The pandemic also forced cutbacks on the Altamont Corridor Express, which carries mainly commuters between Stockton and San Jose. The four weekday round trips have been reduced to two.
ACE will build branches to Stanislaus, Merced and Sacramento counties over the next few years.
Amtrak passengers board a train on May 7, 2018, in Modesto, Calif. JOAN BARNETT LEE [email protected]
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By Press Release Desk, News Partner
ACTC Approves $400 Million For Valley Link Valley Link has now identified $708 million in funding for building the rail project.
Press release from Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority:
Oct. 2, 2020
In an action at their September 24 meeting, the Alameda County Transportation Commission (ACTC) approved a request from the Tri-Valley – San Joaquin Valley Regional Rail Authority to reallocate $400 million in Measure BB funds that had previously been allocated for BART to Livermore to the Valley Link rail project.
The action included several components:
• Acknowledge the rail authority as a new agency in Alameda County eligible to receive Measure BB funds from ACTC; • Remove the BART to Livermore project and its associated $400 million from the Measure BB Transportation Expenditure Plan; and • Add Valley Link to the expenditure plan with $400 million in Measure BB funding
The approval followed a 45-day comment period on the proposed action. Nearly 70 letters of support were received from a wide-ranging group of government agencies, business organizations, educational institutions, labor unions and the general public. The list included the cities of Livermore,
16 of 57 Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon, and Union City, area Chambers of Commerce, the Hacienda Business Park, the Chabot Las Positas Community College District, the Building and Construction Trades Council of Alameda County, and the Innovation Tri Valley Leadership group to name a few.
Alameda County Supervisor Scott Haggerty, who serves on the Alameda County Transportation Commission and is also the Regional Rail Authority's Chair said, "I am truly grateful to my ACTC colleagues who supported this action. I thank them on behalf of the 93,398 Bay Area workers who commute through the Altamont each day struggling to house their families and access jobs – and for all who receive its environmental and economic benefit. For many, transportation is more than getting from point A to point B – it's a vehicle to opportunity and a chance to have safe and affordable choices about where they can live and work. It supports equality. It connects us. It gives many a hope for a better future."
Reflecting upon the tremendous regional collaboration that it took to get to this point, Livermore Mayor John Marchand commented, "Using the Measure BB funds for Valley Link brings us one step closer to keeping the promise that was made to Tri-Valley voters in 1962 and again in 2014. That is the promise of frequent, convenient rail transit through the Tri Valley with connections to BART and the rest of the Bay Area."
With this action by the ACTC, Valley Link has now identified $708 million in funding for building the rail project. This represents almost 30 percent of the of the estimated project cost. Valley Link Executive Director Michael Tree noted, "This $400 million allocation and the other local funds identified for Valley Link will go a long way in helping us leverage state and federal funds for the project."
17 of 57 Phase 1 of the proposed Valley Link project includes seven stations along 42 miles of track, connecting the existing Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station to the proposed ACE North Lathrop Station. A second phase would extend service to Stockton. Trains would be scheduled to allow for convenient transfers to BART. The first Valley Link trains could be placed into service in 2028. Valley Link will carry 33,000 passengers a day in 2040, reducing vehicle miles travelled by 99.3 million each year, and eliminating between 33,000 to 42,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) per year depending on the vehicle technology selected. Currently, the Regional Rail Authority is considering three technologies that include two zero emission technologies; battery/electric and hydrogen.
The passenger rail project will have a significant impact on the regional economy. A recent Economic Impact Study performed by PGH Wong found that during construction Valley Link will create 22,000 jobs with an economic impact on the region of $3.5 billion. Additionally, during service, Valley Link will create 400 jobs and an economic impact of $69 million per year.
This press release was produced by Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority. The views expressed here are the author's own.
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CONTRA COSTA HERALD NEWS OF BY AND FOR THE PEOPLE OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Oakley, transportation officials announce new Amtrak Train Station platform
OCTOBER 24, 2020 BY PUBLISHER
Map of Oakley Center Transit. By City of Oakley. “You’ll be able to get from downtown Oakley to downtown Oakland in 55 minutes ‐ you can’t do that on BART or a car and the ride is much more pleasant.” – Oakley Mayor Kevin Romick
By Amy Sylvestri, City of Oakley
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Mayor Kevin Romick speaks at the site of the future Amtrak train station platform, as Paul Herman from the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority, Vice Mayor Sue Higgins, and City of Oakley Associate Engineer, Jason Kabalin listen on Friday, Oct. 23, 2020. Photo by City of Oakley. Friday was another exciting day in Oakley, as Mayor Kevin Romick, Vice‐Mayor Sue Higgins and Paul Herman, Associate Planner of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority helped announce the next step in the process of bringing an Amtrak platform to Oakley!
The new 700‐foot‐long Amtrak train station platform that will be located behind Main Street between Second Street and Norcross Lane. Once complete, Oakley commuters will be able to get from downtown Oakley to downtown Oakland in under an hour.
Amtrak is currently under design for the proposed 700‐foot long platform which will be located within the railroad right‐of‐way.
The City will design and construct the adjacent improvements that will include a bus and car drop off area between 2nd Street and O’Hara and a large parking lot will be constructed to the west of the main entrance at O’Hara Avenue to accommodate future passengers.
“The ultimate goal is to keep the small-town look as we attract new restaurants and businesses,” said Mayor Kevin Romick. “We understand that downtown is just a couple of blocks long, but we are trying to create a vibrant area. It’s so important to give the City of Oakley more transit options. You’ll be able to get from downtown Oakley to downtown Oakland in 55 minutes ‐ you can’t do that on BART or a car and the ride is much more pleasant.”
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Additionally, to maintain circulation during drop off and pick times, a new roadway will be constructed along the railroad’s right‐of‐way from the main entrance at O’Hara Avenue to Norcross Lane.
The train station platform will be a tremendous benefit to the community. Oakley has many residents that commute to the Bay Area for work every day and the new train platform will provide an alternate mode of transportation and drastically reduce their commute times.
The project, made possible with $8.6 million in state funds, is expected to begin construction soon and complete in 2022, according to Paul Herman of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority
“This is an exciting time for the City of Oakley, said Romick. “We’re looking forward to bringing a train stop back to the East County.”
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Amtrak Preps for Holiday w/ Safety Measures & Early Bookings tribune-admin 16 hours ago Featured Leave a comment
Amtrak San Joaquins continues to provide safe and reliable rail service to passengers and is taking extra steps to prepare for an expected increase in ridership around the Thanksgiving holiday. Travelers will experience enhanced safety, cleaning and physical distancing measures that have been put in place to promote public health. As part of Amtrak’s partnership with experts from the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Amtrak San Joaquins has implemented a series of protocols including required face coverings, contactless amenities, disinfection, social distancing on board and in stations, and sophisticated air filtration.
Peak travel days are expected to be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and the Sunday after. Amtrak San Joaquins requires reservations for riders and will be running trains at reduced capacity to ensure adequate social distancing. Therefore, Amtrak San Joaquins is advising passengers to book their tickets early and to consider modifying their travel dates to avoid November 25 and November 29.
The Amtrak San Joaquins train route travels daily between Sacramento, Oakland, Stockton, Fresno and Bakersfield, and includes a robust Thruway bus network that provides connecting service to 135 destinations in California and Nevada, including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno.
22 of 57 “We are adding train cars to our service around Thanksgiving so that San Joaquins riders can travel with peace of mind while avoiding unnecessary crowds this holiday season,” said Stacey Mortensen Executive Director of the San Joaquins Joint Powers Authority. “With our enhanced safety measures and our reduced on-board capacities, we want to ensure our passengers feel a continued sense of confidence when they travel with us this holiday season.”
Amtrak San Joaquins is encouraging riders to also review the Visit California “Responsible Travel Code” for additional tips on how to plan thoughtful, safe, and respectful travel as our state reopens from COVID-19 restrictions. Customers are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and book early to guarantee available tickets. Bookings will be limited to allow for more physical distancing in seating areas. Amtrak’s new standard of travel includes:
Face coverings: Amtrak requires all customers and employees wear a face mask or covering that fully covers the entire mouth and nose, fits snugly against the side of the face, and secures under the chin at all times while onboard and in stations unless actively eating or drinking while stationary and maintaining appropriate physical distancing. Face masks can be removed onboard when customers are in their private room and the door is closed.
Station arrival: Customers are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes before departure and 60 minutes if in need of ticketing and/or baggage assistance.
Capacity indicator: When searching for travel options, customers will see a volume percentage next to each route so they can get helpful insight into which trains are less crowded. The percentage displayed is available in real-time when customers search for their train.
Amtrak app: Customers can book, board, check train status and access information from the convenience and safety of a mobile device. Amtrak encourages boarding with eTickets, which conductors scan from the Amtrak app.
Air quality: All Amtrak trains are equipped with onboard filtration systems with a fresh air exchange rate every 4-5 minutes.
Physical distancing: Signage has been displayed at our busiest stations to indicate safe distances in high traffic areas. In addition, protective plastic barriers have been installed at customer counters at our busiest stations.
Limiting bookings: We are limiting bookings on reserved trains to allow for more physical distancing in seating areas. Individuals traveling alone may use the seat next to them for personal belongings, while friends and family members will easily find seats together.
Tickets are currently for sale and can be found, along with current schedules, on AmtrakSanJoaquins.com and through the Amtrak app.
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27 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 4 INFORMATION
Recognition of SJJPA Board Members’ Service
Executive Director, Stacey Mortensen, will recognize and honor SJJPA Board Members for their service on the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA), role in the establishment of SJJPA, and years of working to improve the Amtrak San Joaquins passenger rail service.
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation: This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
28 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 5 ACTION
Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Approving an Initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) and California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) Outlining Roles and Responsibilities Regarding Interim Service Operations on the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Segment and Integration with Existing Intercity and Regional Rail Systems
Background:
The San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority’s (SJJPA) 2020 Business Plan highlights the SJJPA’s strong support for Governor Newsom’s and California High-Speed Rail Authority’s (CHSRA) proposed Merced-Bakersfield High-Speed Rail (HSR) Interim Service with stops at Madera and Kings/Tulare. The San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority’s (SJJPA) 2020 Business Plan highlights the SJJPA’s strong support for Governor Newsom’s and California High- Speed Rail Authority’s (CHSRA) proposed Merced-Bakersfield High-Speed Rail (HSR) Interim Service with stops at Madera and Kings/Tulare. SJJPA has been working with SJRRC, CHSRA, Caltrans, and California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) on planning for integrating the San Joaquins and ACE services with the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Interim Service. Both the San Joaquins and ACE rail services would directly connect with HSR services at a multi-modal station in downtown Merced. The 2020 Business Plan also states that to efficiently integrate the San Joaquins and the interim HSR services, Merced will become the southern terminus for San Joaquins rail service once operations begin on the HSR infrastructure at the end of 2028.
The San Joaquins and ACE rail services will be key feeder services for the Merced- Bakersfield HSR Interim Service, providing important connectivity to the Northern San Joaquin Valley, Sacramento and to the Bay Area. In addition, the extensive San Joaquins Thruway Bus Network, will provide equally important connectivity to Southern California and the rest of the state. The initiation of the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Interim Service will lead to substantially improved intercity passenger rail service throughout California, with much higher frequencies of service, shorter travel times, better on-time performance, reduced emissions and GHG, improved safety, higher ridership and reduced state subsidies. SJJPA has committed to continuing to work with CHSRA, Caltrans, CalSTA and SJRRC to implement a fully integrated statewide intercity service which utilizes the HSR infrastructure between Merced and Bakersfield that will bring great benefits to the state, demonstrates electrified HSR operations, and leads to the expansion of the statewide HSR network.
29 of 57 CHSRA, SJJPA, SJRRC, CalSTA, and Caltrans completed an analysis of the feasibility of HSR operations in the Central Valley documented in the “California High Speed Rail Early Train Operator – Central Valley Segment System Management and Operations Interim Financial Plan” dated January 31, 2020 (CV Study). In the CV Study, the participants agreed on assumptions, estimated the operations and maintenance costs, and utilized the State Rail Plan ridership model to estimate the potential revenue and benefits of the combined services (ACE/San Joaquins/HSR). The CV Study analysis included an integrated service plan for the region including the ACE and San Joaquins intercity rail service, and the use of the CHSRA section in the Central Valley. The CV Study concluded that the best scenario for all the parties is to start an early service of HSR between the cities of Bakersfield and an integrated station in Merced where ACE and San Joaquins services will directly connect to HSR at a multi-modal station in the future (Interim Service).
The Draft CHSRA 2020 Business Plan recommends the CHSRA consider implementing an "infrastructure owner" model for interim service, in which it leases its infrastructure to a third- party public entity, such as the SJJPA, to operate the Interim Service on the Merced- Bakersfield HSR segment. This interim service business model is similar to the current arrangement that the ACE and Amtrak San Joaquins services have with Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) and BNSF Railway (BNSF) that allow for passenger service on their infrastructure. Under this model, the Authority would lease its rail assets so that an operator could provide passenger service on the CHSRA’s assets.
As part of the CHSRA 2020 Draft Business Plan, CHSRA’s financial advisor recommended CHSRA pursue an interagency agreement with other agencies. They recommended that the CHSRA secure a sufficient level of commitment, through a MOU, from regional partners and the CalSTA before negotiating major long-term commitments and making operating decisions for interim service.
Draft MOU
SJJPA, CHSRA, and CalSTA staff have worked together to develop an initial draft MOU (see attached) to facilitate cooperation and coordination in the development of parameters for planning and negotiating early interim operation of a portion of the California HSR system in combination with existing intercity and regional rail systems. This initial MOU reflects the parties vision of the roles and responsibilities of SJJPA, CHSRA, and CalSTA regarding Interim Service Operations on the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Segment and how this integrates with existing intercity and regional rail systems. This MOU is intended as an important first step towards SJJPA becoming the responsible agency for the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Interim Service operations. More detailed, specific agreements will be needed in the future. Identifying SJJPA as the operator of the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Interim Service will help CHSRA move forward with the approval of their 2020 Business Plan and the implementation of the Merced-Bakersfield HSR segment.
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Key points from the MOU include: • CHSRA would be responsible for implementing and providing access to, and maintenance for the HSR infrastructure (including track and railway systems, bridges, platforms) and HSR trainsets. • SJJPA would act as the operator (indirectly, by contract) of the Interim HSR Service. SJJPA will identify and propose a delegate “Operator”, to be approved by CHSRA, to operate trainsets and stations. • SJJPA would pay CHSRA a System Access Fee for usage of CHSRA infrastructure and related assets in an amount sufficient to cover the portion of CHSRA’s maintenance and overhead costs that are related to the Interim Service. • SJJPA would work to have a joint Operator for ACE, San Joaquins and HSR. • CalSTA will work with SJJPA on the best approach for its business plan under this new model. CalSTA will review and approve SJJPA business plans that include plans and budgets for SJJPA to operate Related Services after ensuring that all legal requirements have been met.
Staff is requesting the SJJPA Board to approve the attached resolution which approves this initial MOU with CHSRA and CalSTA with a goal of the SJJPA serving as the agency that would be responsible for HSR operations for the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Interim Service.
Fiscal Impact: There are no direct fiscal impacts from this action. The partnership proposed with CHSRA and CalSTA is consistent with the SJJPA’s approved 2020 Business Plan and CHSRA’s Draft 2020 Business Plan that is supported by SJJPA.
Recommendation: Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Approving an Initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) and California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) Outlining Roles and Responsibilities Regarding Interim Service Operations on the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Segment and Integration with Existing Intercity and Regional Rail Systems.
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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BY AND BETWEEN THE CALIFORNIA STATE TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY and CALIFORNIA HIGH-SPEED RAIL AUTHORITY and SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY
FOR COOPERATION AND COORDINATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTERIM SERVICE PLAN
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is entered into by and between the California State Transportation Agency, California High-Speed Rail Authority and the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (referred to herein collectively as the “Participants”) to facilitate cooperation and coordination in the development of parameters for early interim operation of a portion of the California High-Speed Rail (HSR) system in combination with existing intercity and regional rail systems.
PERTINENT ENTITIES
California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA): develops and coordinates the policies and programs of the state’s transportation entities, including CHSRA and Caltrans; responsible for overall planning, coordination and budgeting of intercity passenger rail service in California; delegates specified administrative and oversight responsibilities related to transit and intercity rail to Caltrans; responsible for the review and approval of SJJPA business plans that will include plans by SJJPA to execute contracts related to implementing HSR services. California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA): responsible for planning, designing, constructing, and operating HSR. San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA): responsible for the governance, operation and management of the San Joaquins Intercity Passenger Rail Service (San Joaquins) between the cities of Bakersfield, Fresno, Merced, Modesto, Stockton, Sacramento and Oakland. California Department of Transportation (Caltrans): provides oversight of intercity rail services managed by the joint powers authorities, including SJJPA; owns and manages intercity rail rolling stock used for the services. San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC): the current managing agency of San Joaquins on behalf of SJJPA and is responsible for the governance, operation and maintenance of the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE). Early Train Operator (ETO): the consultant retained by CHSRA to assist in the design, development and procurement of the commercial aspects of HSR passenger train operations as well as the study of, and preparation for, operation of the HSR system; participated with other Parties in an analysis of the feasibility of HSR operations (discussed in more detail below).
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Operator: SJJPA’s proposed delegate to operate trainsets and stations. The Operator will not be in place to be a party to this MOU but is included for the purposes of defining roles and responsibilities.
RECITALS
A. Whereas, the state statutory mandate of CHSRA is to develop an HSR system that coordinates with the state’s existing transportation network, which includes intercity rail and bus lines, regional rail lines, urban rail and bus transit lines, highways, and airports; and B. Whereas, the HSR system will eventually provide intercity, high-speed service on more than 800 miles of track, connecting the major population centers of Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area, the Central Valley, Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Orange County, and San Diego; and C. Whereas, future planning for the HSR system includes service between Sacramento and Merced, and between the Central Valley and San Jose along the Altamont Corridor; and D. Whereas, the Participants are interested in pursuing a coordinated implementation strategy to provide improved rail service, including segments of HSR operations, connecting the Bay Area, Sacramento, Merced and Bakersfield utilizing a combination of future CHSRA assets and existing regional rail services and/or corridors (as detailed more fully below); and E. Whereas, the Participants desire to memorialize in this non-binding MOU their shared understanding for the development of an interim service plan for the HSR, San Joaquins, and potentially ACE; and F. Whereas, the Participants intend to utilize this MOU as the next step in developing the interim service plan and expect that this process will be collaborative and iterative; and G. Whereas, the Participants intend to enter into detailed agreements as the roles, responsibilities and expectations regarding the interim service plan develop.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PARTICIPANTS SHARE THE FOLLOWING UNDERSTANDING:
1. CHSRA, SJJPA, SJRRC, CalSTA, Caltrans and the CHSRA ETO completed an analysis of the feasibility of HSR operations in the Central Valley documented in the “California High Speed Rail Early Train Operator – Central Valley Segment System Management and Operations Interim Financial Plan” dated January 31, 2020 (CV Study)1. In the CV Study, the participants agreed on assumptions, estimated the operations and maintenance costs, and utilized the State Rail Plan ridership model to estimate the potential revenue and benefits of the combined services (ACE/San Joaquins/HSR). The CV Study analysis included an integrated service plan for the region including the ACE and San Joaquins intercity rail service, and the use of the CHSRA section in the Central Valley. The CV Study
1 The CV Study is incorporated herein by this reference. Capitalized terms in this MOU have the same meaning as in the CV Study unless otherwise defined herein.
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concluded that the best scenario for all the parties is to start an early service of HSR between the cities of Bakersfield and an integrated station in Merced where ACE and San Joaquins services will directly connect to HSR at a multi-modal station in the future (Interim Service). 2. The CV Study contains the assumed targeted service and timetables to be implemented in both the high-speed sections and in the connecting intercity and regional rail and bus services, including the coordinated transfer times. According to these targets the parties agreed to: a. Implement a high-speed train service in each direction from Merced to Bakersfield with intermediate stations at Madera, Fresno, and Kings/Tulare (HSR Segment). b. Improve the connections to San Joaquins intercity and ACE regional rail services from: i. Merced to Sacramento and Oakland via San Joaquins; ii. Merced to Sacramento and San Jose via ACE; and iii. Bus Connections to match the HSR trains at stations throughout the route, as assumed in the CV Study (including at Merced, Bakersfield and intermediate stations). c. Develop stations to an agreed upon appropriate level. d. Participate in the Merced station planning group (to be formed in the future), for the intermodal Merced station shared by HSR, San Joaquins and ACE services. 3. CHSRA Responsibilities a. CHSRA will provide system access to the Operator for the use of CHSRA infrastructure (including track and railway systems, bridges, platforms) and related assets in the HSR Segment. b. CHSRA will not exclude any interested, qualified and acceptable entity from participating in the Operator procurement and will consider the potential value to CHSRA of entities gaining operational experience and maximizing efficiencies in the operation of high-speed services where possible. c. CHSRA will be responsible for maintaining civil infrastructure, track and railway systems, and associated facilities (to be performed by a Track and Systems contractor engaged by CHSRA). d. CHSRA will be responsible for providing and maintaining station platforms, platform lighting, canopies, and vertical circulation (to be performed by a Track and Systems contractor engaged by CHSRA). e. CHSRA will provide high-speed trainsets and a train maintenance facility. f. CHSRA will be responsible for maintaining high-speed trainsets and the high-speed train maintenance facility (to be performed by a rolling stock contractor engaged by CHSRA).
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g. CHSRA will be responsible for the provision, maintenance, and operation of an Operations Control Center (OCC) (to be operated by a Track and Systems contractor engaged by CHSRA) to handle dispatching, incident management, and service recovery; CHSRA will provide space on the operations floor for Operator staff to facilitate coordination between Operator and CHSRA. h. CHSRA will be responsible for security and policing of infrastructure, track, systems, and associated facilities, and for trainsets stabled in the train maintenance facility. i. CHSRA will provide accurate and timely budget inputs to SJJPA and CalSTA for the above services such that SJJPA can accurately reflect such costs in its business plan submissions to CalSTA. j. CHSRA will inform SJJPA of any material change to the Track and Systems or Rolling Stock agreement(s) that could affect SJJPA budgeting efforts. k. CHSRA to be responsible for all legal requirements, including FRA requirements, related to maintenance of rail infrastructure and rolling stock. l. CHSRA will maintain, directly or through insurance obtained by its contractors (including Operator), the appropriate level of insurance or self-insurance for its responsibilities. 4. SJJPA Responsibilities a. SJJPA will act as the rail service provider (indirectly, by contract with the Operator) of the Interim Service. b. SJJPA will identify and propose a delegate Operator, to be approved by CHSRA, to operate trainsets and stations. The Operator could include a joint venture partnership or other arrangement with any interested, qualified and acceptable entity/entities, under a separate agreement(s) if agreeable terms are negotiated. c. SJJPA will pay CHSRA a System Access Fee for usage of CHSRA infrastructure and related assets in an amount sufficient to cover the portion of CHSRA’s maintenance and overhead costs that are related to the Interim Service. SJJPA will use incremental farebox revenues generated from increased ridership to make these CHSRA payments, and also to pay the Operator engaged by SJJPA. d. SJPPA will pay CHSRA a Train Rental Fee for usage of CHSRA trainsets in an amount sufficient to cover CHSRA’s maintenance and insurance costs related to the rolling stock, the costs of which will also be paid for using incremental farebox revenues generated from increased ridership. e. SJJPA will work with SJRRC on behalf of the ACE service, and CHSRA on behalf of the HSR service, to pursue the joint Operator for ACE, San Joaquins and HSR operations. SJRRC will continue to be responsible for planning and scheduling ACE service and receiving local and federal compensation sufficient to cover the costs of the ACE rail services. SJJPA will coordinate with SJRRC on the scheduling of ACE services to ensure optimal network integration while protecting existing ACE service markets. SJJPA will seek approval to collect revenues on behalf of ACE passengers for joint ticketed services and to provide such revenues to SJRRC at publicly published ticket prices for peak-period ACE rail services within the ACE corridors.
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Additional revenue generated on ACE trains as a direct result of SJJPA-contracted HSR supplemental services, will be split between SJJPA and SJRRC as determined by future negotiated agreement(s). f. SJJPA commits to prioritize the development of the regional rail connectivity infrastructure up to and around Merced station including securing the additional funding necessary for these improvements. g. SJJPA will establish and maintain a robust advertising and marketing program approved by CalSTA; h. SJJPA will engage and support the CalSTA Integrated Travel Project; i. SJJPA will engage and oversee the Operator that will: i. operate high-speed rail service, San Joaquins service, connecting bus services in an integrated manner (collectively, the “Related Service”), and potentially ACE service; ii. operate and manage all Related Service in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations; iii. conduct day-to-day station operations, including provision of station and retail staff, daily cleaning, and management of car parking associated with the station; iv. conduct day-to-day management of the train crew and provide all on-board customer services (ex. food services); v. recommend fare policies and collect revenues; vi. establish and observe safety protocols for customers and staff; vii. maintain insurance policies required by CHSRA, naming CHSRA, SJJPA and certain other entities as named or additional insureds; viii. manage passenger welfare during any train incidents and coordinate with the OCC regarding impacts on service; ix. provide input on advertising and marketing program; x. be responsible for all legal requirements, including STB and FRA compliance related to the operation of trains. j. SJJPA will engage and oversee the Operator or other entities to: i. provide security and policing for stations, car parks, on board trains, and for trainsets stabled in places other than the maintenance facility; and ii. establish and operate a ticketing system, both on-line and at stations (as applicable), for high-speed trains, which system will be integrated with the ticketing systems for the Related Service; k. SJJPA will work with CalSTA on the best approach for its business plan under this new model and do any work needed to provide information to CalSTA. Based on those discussions, SJJPA will submit a modified business plan to CalSTA for approval by the Secretary that includes plans to execute future agreements for joint
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SJJPA and HSR Segment services that consider methods to account for the operating costs, including utilizing incremental revenues to pay for all incremental operating costs. 5. CalSTA Responsibilities a. CalSTA is responsible for overall planning, coordination and budgeting of intercity passenger rail service in California, including: (1) approving SJJPA business plans that include plans to execute agreements related to implementing the business plan; and (2) delegation of state administrative and oversight responsibilities to Caltrans. b. CalSTA will work with SJJPA on the best approach for its business plan under this new model. CalSTA will review and approve SJJPA business plans that include plans and budgets for SJJPA to operate Related Services after ensuring that all legal requirements have been met. c. CalSTA expects to only approve SJJPA business plans that ensure that incremental costs tied to HSR operations and related agreements with SJRRC related to ACE services are fully covered by incremental revenues. Similar to the expectations for Thruway bus services, agreements related to providing high-speed rail services are expected to deliver incremental revenue across the network in excess of the incremental contract costs. d. CalSTA will delegate appropriate authority to Caltrans to provide oversight and funding to SJJPA, in accordance with contractual requirements, including the authority to support the modeling of various ridership and cost forecasts tied to ensuring incremental service growth has cost increases that can at least be covered by incremental revenues Caltrans will be authorized to work with SJJPA to identify service levels lower than those envisioned in earlier studies if the service levels indicated by the results of such earlier studies would be likely to result in incremental revenues exceeding incremental costs. 6. Necessary Interim Service Flexibility a. CHSRA, SJJPA, and SJRRC work under boards that will need to review and approve decisions related to the items covered in the MOU. b. COVID-19 may change funding availability to all parties and require modifications to the approach set forth in this MOU. c. Parties will continue to review other models (including structure and funding, among other areas) that achieve the goals set forth herein as the Participants move forward. d. If it is determined that it is desirable for SJJPA to begin operations on CHSRA infrastructure prior to full completion of Merced and Bakersfield extensions, additional analysis will be necessary to determine feasibility of service plans and funding structure. The terms of this MOU would need additional amendments. 7. General Terms a. This MOU is intended as an initial step to facilitate the cooperation, coordination and intentions set forth herein. The Participants expect that as the planning evolves and
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the Participants reach consensus of how to best proceed, this MOU may be revised and detailed and specific agreement(s) will be entered into. b. At a minimum, the Participants anticipate that the following agreements will be necessary and negotiated at the appropriate time: i. CHSRA/SJJPA System Access Agreement ii. Train Lease Agreement; and iii. SJJPA/Operator Operations Agreement; including CHSRA operating guidelines and requirements. c. The Participants agree to collaborate, cooperate and coordinate with each other, including their respective staff and/or consultants, to achieve the objectives of this MOU including, among other actions: i. the commitment of personnel; ii. the participation in recurring meetings and/or workshops; iii. the exchange of necessary technical and other information; and iv. good faith negotiation of more detailed agreement(s), where needed. d. The respective contact points for communication and information exchange, as well as any notice required to be submitted under this MOU are: Chief Deputy Secretary, Rail and Transit California State Transportation Authority 915 Capitol Mall, Suite 350B Sacramento, California 95814
Director of Operations and Maintenance California High-Speed Rail Authority 770 L Street, Suite 620 Sacramento, California 95814
Manager of Regional Initiatives San Joaquin Join Power Authority 949 East Channel Street Stockton California 95202 8. This MOU is a non-binding, voluntary initiative and does not create any legally binding rights, limitations or obligations upon the Participants. This MOU does not purport to include all provisions relative to the structure or terms of the proposed transaction or definitive documents. Rather, the Parties agree to memorialize binding commitments in future agreements as they are negotiated. Each party shall bear its own costs related to this effort unless otherwise agreed in writing. 9. Should the Participants reach an impasse in the collaborative effort anticipated by this MOU, the contact points (identified above) will make an expeditious and good faith effort at working together through dedicated meetings to reach a compromise or resolution. Should that effort be unsuccessful, the Participants agree to elevate the outstanding issues to their
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respective Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director/Secretary who will then make an expeditious and good faith effort at working together through dedicated meetings to reach a compromise or resolution. 10. This MOU is not intended to amend or impact in any way other existing written agreements or MOUs that Participants may have entered pertaining to Interim Service, ACE, San Joaquins, or the HSR project, in general. 11. This MOU is effective from the date of its last signature and shall remain in effect until another MOU or agreement regarding Interim Service is executed between the Participants, or one Participant withdraws from the MOU, whichever is earlier. 12. This MOU can only be renewed or extended by the Participants in writing. The Participants may, at any time, withdraw from this MOU by providing a written notice to the other Participants. 13. This MOU may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Facsimile, pdf., or electronic/computer-image signatures will be treated as originals.
FOR THE CALIFORNIA STATE FOR THE CALIFORNIA HIGH- TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY SPEED AUTHORITY
David S. Kim, Brian P. Kelly Secretary Chief Executive Officer
Date: November ___, 2020 Date: November ___, 2020
FOR THE SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY
Stacey L. Mortensen, Executive Director
Date: November ___, 2020
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39 of 57 SJJPA RESOLUTION 20/21-
RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY APPROVING AN INITIAL MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) WITH THE CALIFORNIA HIGH-SPEED RAIL AUTHORITY (CHSRA) AND CALIFORNIA STATE TRANSPORTATION AGENCY (CALSTA) OUTLINING ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES REGARDING INTERIM SERVICE OPERATIONS ON THE MERCED-BAKERSFIELD HSR SEGMENT AND INTEGRATION WITH EXISTING INTERCITY AND REGIONAL RAIL SYSTEMS
WHEREAS, SJJPA’s 2020 Business Plan highlights the SJJPA’s strong support for Governor Newsom’s and CHSRA’s proposed Merced-Bakersfield High-Speed Rail (HSR) Interim Service with stops at Madera and Kings/Tulare; and
WHEREAS, SJJPA has been working with SJRRC, CHSRA, Caltrans, and CalSTA on planning for integrating the San Joaquins and ACE services with the Merced- Bakersfield HSR Interim Service; and
WHEREAS, SJJPA, CHSRA, and CalSTA staff have worked together to develop an initial draft MOU (see attached) to facilitate cooperation and coordination in the development of parameters for planning and negotiating early interim operation of a portion of the California HSR system in combination with existing intercity and regional rail systems; and
WHEREAS, this initial MOU reflects the parties vision of the roles and responsibilities of SJJPA, CHSRA, and CalSTA each would undertake regarding Interim Service Operations on the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Segment and how this integrates with existing intercity and regional rail systems; and
WHEREAS, this MOU is intended as an important first step towards SJJPA becoming the responsible agency for the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Interim Service operations. More detailed, specific agreements will be needed in the future; and
WHEREAS, identifying SJJPA as the operator of the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Interim Service will help CHSRA move forward with the approval of their 2020 Business Plan and the implementation of the Merced-Bakersfield HSR segment.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Approve an Initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) and California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) Outlining Roles and Responsibilities Regarding Interim Service Operations on the Merced-Bakersfield HSR Segment and Integration with Existing Intercity and Regional Rail Systems.
40 of 57 PASSED AND ADOPTED, by the SJJPA on this 20th day of November 2020, by the following vote:
AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY
______STACEY MORTENSEN, Secretary VITO CHIESA, Chair
41 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 6 ACTION
Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Authorizing the Executive Director to Negotiate and Enter into Agreements with Caltrans and San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) for the Truck Overhaul Project and Other Future Projects Related to the State Owned Rolling Stock Maintenance and Overhaul Work and Authorizing SJRRC to Perform the Procurement, Contracting, Reporting, and Project Management on behalf of SJJPA and Authorizing the Executive Director to Execute Any and All Documents Related to the Projects
Background:
In early 2019, the State of California (Caltrans) approached San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) staff to enter into an agreement to perform mobilization activities at the Stockton Rail Maintenance Facility (RMF) in Stockton relating to the State of California’s procurement of the Siemens Single Level Passenger Railcars. SJRRC staff informed their Board of the request from Caltrans during the Fiscal Year 20/21 Budget Approval meetings. Staff was directed to begin discussions with Caltrans on an agreement. This led to an agreement between Caltrans and SJRRC for Pre-Revenue Mobilization Activities including but not limited to regulatory testing, acceptance testing, facility support services, and personnel to perform these duties which was executed in June 2020. Additionally, an agreement is under development for all Regulatory Inspections on the Siemens Single Level Equipment be completed at the RMF by SJRRC forces.
As a result of the Pre-Revenue Mobilization Activities Agreement, Caltrans inquired about having overhaul and other maintenance work done at the RMF while using SJRRC forces on the entire State Supported fleet. Due to a backlog of overhaul work that needs to be completed in a timely manner and having an agency complete the work that is sensitive to the needs of the three (3) State Supported Services, keeping the availability of the existing fleet at a high level is essential. This would allow for work to be completed during the time of reduced service levels in the COVID-19 environment.
42 of 57 Without quick action now to get more maintenance and overhaul work underway, the restoration of all service is threatened.
The RMF was envisioned to provide work for other agencies and rail partners and SJRRC has been approved by the Federal Transit Administration (a major funding partner of the original Facility construction) to perform this type of 3rd party work. Caltrans and the other JPA’s desire to accomplish this work at the RMF which it considers an optimum location..
The main project Caltrans has requested be completed is the completion of a truck overhaul program on State owned bi-level cars as well as café cars. Overhauls and upgrades have been delayed which has jeopardized the availability of equipment to operate the three (3) Intercity Rail Services.
Since Caltrans and SJJPA have an existing contractual relationship for the oversight of the Amtrak San Joaquins , Caltrans desires to contract with the SJJPA through that relationship and have the Board authorize SJRRC, as the Managing Agency, to complete perform the work under the existing Management Agreement utilizing the economies of scale they have through existing contracts. Additionally, in the case of the truck overhaul project, the advantage of using the RMF to complete work is that the facility is along the San Joaquin Corridor, and equipment can be brought into the facility and put back into service in a very efficient manner.
Staff and Counsel have been working with Caltrans and Amtrak, as the operator of the services, on the appropriate structure and terms of the agreements and anticipate bringing an action item before the Rail Commission at the December meeting approving and authorizing the SJRRC to perform the work at the RMF. Considering the accelerated timeframe for the delivery, a streamlined process for project management, staffing, contracting, and RMF ownership, delegating the performance of this work to SJRRC on behalf of SJJPA is recommended. This action would be consistent with previously Board approved items relating to SJRRC being the lead agency in the owner/operator of shared stations and facilities in the joint use corridor.
Procedurally, Caltrans would contract with SJJPA directly. SJJPA would delegate the work to SJRRC under the Management Agreement or other agreement if necessary, who would utilize staff and third-party agreements to complete the work. SJRRC would invoice SJJPA who would then seek reimbursement from Caltrans.
43 of 57 Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact for this item.
Recommendation: Approve a Resolution of the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Authorizing the Executive Director to Negotiate and Enter into Agreements with Caltrans and San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) for the Truck Overhaul Project and Other Future Projects Related to the State Owned Rolling Stock Maintenance and Overhaul Work and Authorizing SJRRC to Perform the Procurement, Contracting, Reporting, and Project Management on behalf of SJJPA and Authorizing the Executive Director to Execute Any and All Documents Related to the Projects.
44 of 57 SJJPA RESOLUTION 20/21-
RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO NEGOTIATE AND ENTER INTO AGREEMENTS WITH CALTRANS AND SAN JOAQUIN REGIONAL RAIL COMMISSION (SJRRC) FOR THE TRUCK OVERHAUL PROJECT AND OTHER FUTURE PROJECTS RELATED TO THE STATE OWNED ROLLING STOCK MAINTENANCE AND OVERHAUL WORK AND AUTHORIZING SJRRC TO PERFORM THE PROCUREMENT, CONTRACTING, REPORTING, AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT ON BEHALF OF SJJPA AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS RELATED TO THE PROJECTS
WHEREAS, in early 2019, the State of California (Caltrans) approached San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) staff to enter into an agreement to perform mobilization activities at the Stockton Rail Maintenance Facility (RMF); and
WHEREAS, SJRRC and Caltrans entered into an agreement for Pre-Revenue Mobilization Activities in June 2020; and
WHEREAS, Caltrans inquired about having overhaul and other maintenance work done at the RMF while using SJRRC forces on the entire State Supported fleet; and
WHEREAS, Caltrans has a contractual relationship with SJJPA only and not with SJRRC; and
WHEREAS, the proper contractual arrangement would be for Caltrans to contract with the SJJPA and have the SJJPA Board authorize SJRRC as the Managing Agency to complete the work on their behalf utilizing the economies of scale they have through existing contracts; and
WHEREAS, Staff and Counsel have been working with Caltrans and Amtrak, as the operator of the services, on the appropriate structure and terms of the agreements; and
WHEREAS, Considering the accelerated timeframe for the delivery, a streamlined process for project management, staffing, contracting, and RMF ownership an agreement between SJJPA and SJRRC to delegate this work to SJRRC on behalf of SJJPA is recommended; and
WEREAS, This action would broaden the scope of what SJJPA can delegate to SJRRC to include project related to the State-Owned equipment maintenance and overhaul work; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Governing Board of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authorizes the Executive Director to Negotiate and Enter into Agreements with Caltrans and San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) for the Truck Overhaul Project and Other Future Projects Related to the State Owned Rolling Stock Maintenance and Overhaul Work and Authorizing SJRRC to Perform the Procurement, Contracting, Reporting, and Project Management on behalf of SJJPA and Authorizing the Executive Director to Execute Any and All Documents Related to the Projects
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PASSED AND ADOPTED, by the SJJPA on this 20th day of November 2020, by the following vote:
AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
ATTEST: SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY
______STACEY MORTENSEN, Secretary VITO CHIESA, Chair
46 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 7 INFORMATION
San Joaquins Operations and Ridership/Revenue Update
San Joaquins Ridership and Revenue As with passenger rail and transit services across the country, the San Joaquins experienced a sharp, sustained decline in ridership and revenue, during the months of March and April. From the year over year low in April, the San Joaquins have gained back over 30% to a recovery high of -66.2% in ridership and -62.8% in revenue in September. Overall, the San Joaquins ended FY20 down -42.4% in ridership and -40.2% in revenue.
San Joaquins Ridership and Revenue (Year Over Year FY20 vs. FY19) Ridership Ticket Revenue Month FY20 FY19 % change FY20 FY19 % change Oct 82,211 84,358 -2.6% $2,368,328 $2,480,787 -4.5% Nov 92,427 99,946 -7.5% $2,979,245 $3,253,885 -8.4% Dec 94,488 91,578 3.2% $3,226,628 $2,949,028 9.4% Jan 78,348 74,907 4.6% $2,342,531 $2,312,775 1.3%
Feb 75,527 69,988 7.9% $2,123,935 $2,072,049 2.5%
Mar 46,323 90,261 -48.7% $1,339,884 $2,658,760 -49.6%
Apr 11,650 93,129 -87.5% $450,855 $2,712,873 -83.4%
May 18,987 93,765 -79.8% $688,548 $2,788,542 -75.3%
June 25,907 91,800 -71.8% $891,061 $2,737,033 -67.4%
July 26,783 94,696 -71.7% $909,391 $2,893,422 -68.6%
Aug 26,619 88,451 -69.9% $861,569 $2,635,214 -67.3%
Sep 27,458 81,178 -66.2% $889,242 $2,390,215 -62.8% Total 606,728 1,054,057 -42.4% $19,073,606 $31,884,583 -40.2%
47 of 57 When looking at the State Supported Services across the nation, the San Joaquins (shown in red) have consistently performed near the top in ridership during the pandemic affected months of April through September. For the months of April and May, the San Joaquins carried the most riders in the nation with latest reporting from September showing it at 3rd. Staff sees this trend reflecting the needs-based use of the San Joaquins by passengers without alternative mobility options.
State Supported Ridership APR - SEPT 45,000
40,000
35,000
30,000
25,000
20,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
0 APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP
Downeaster Empire South Empire West/Maple Leaf Adirondack Ethan Allen Vermonter New Haven-Springfield Keystone Pennsylvanian Washington-Lynchburg/Roanoke Washington-Newport News Washington-Norfolk Washington-Richmond Carolinian Piedmont Heartland Flyer Wolverine Blue Water Pere Marquette Hiawatha Lincoln Service Illini/Saluki Illinois Zephyr/Carl Sandburg Missouri River Runner Pacific Surfliner Capitol Corridor San Joaquins Cascades
48 of 57 Narrowing the services to the Western Routes (San Joaquins, Capitol Corridor, Pacific Surfliner, and Cascades), the San Joaquins performed at the top in ridership for the months of April and May and second June through September as the Pacific Surfliner regained passengers.
Western Routes Ridership APR - SEPT SEP, 42,482 45,000 AUG, 38,756 JUL, 33,812 40,000 JUN, 30,498 35,000 30,000 MAY, 18,987 JUL, 26,783 AUG, 26,619 SEP, 27,458 25,000 JUN, 25,907 20,000 APR, 11,650 MAY, 16,209 15,000 AUG, 18,360 SEP, 19,824 JUN, 16,542 JUL, 18,382 10,000APR, 8,361 MAY, 9,308 5,000 APR, 7,150 AUG, 6,970 JUL, 6,425 SEP, 6,451 0 JUN, 5,027 APR, 1,704 MAY, 2,880 APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP
Pacific Surfliner Capitol Corridor San Joaquins Cascades
To gauge recovery, the year over year percent of ridership metric helps assess how much of the pre-pandemic ridership services have been able to regain. The San Joaquins has outpaced the rest of the west in ridership by % Year of Year (FY 19 vs FY 20).
APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP -66.2 -69.9 -71.8 -71.7
-79.8 -82.1 -85.6 -87.5 -86.8 -87.5 -87.788.5 -87.9 -87.9 -90.8 -92.3 -91.8 -93.394.1 -93.3 -95.4 -95.9 -97.396.5
Pacific Surfliner Capitol Corridor San Joaquins Cascades
49 of 57 On-Time Performance (OTP):
San Joaquins On-Time Performance (OTP) for FY20 (Oct – Sep) is trending upward with a significant increase in performance over the previous year. The reduced service levels and reduced freight levels are contributing to a significant increase in performance with a high in May at 95%. The San Joaquins ended FY20 an 83% OTP average which is significant jump from FY19’s 66%.
End Point On-Time Performance FY20 vs FY19 95% 100% 91% 89% 87% 88% 90% 82% 84% 83% 78% 77% 80% 72% 72% 69% 71% 70% 68% 66% 68% 66% 70% 65% 63% 65% 60% 60% 56% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP
FY20 FY19
San Joaquins End Point On-Time Performance (OTP) is a measure that reflects the performance of trains arriving to the end terminus station with the allowance of a 15-minute recovery period. Looking at the three California Routes, The San Joaquins End-Point OTP is comparable to the other services.
End-Point OTP (Oct – Sep) Service FY20 FY19 San Joaquins 83% 66% Capitol Corridor 88% 89% Pacific Surfliner 86% 71%
50 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 8 INFORMATION
Update on San Joaquins Thruway Bus Network
Background:
At the September 25, 2020 SJJPA Board Meeting, staff presented information on the San Joaquins Thruway Bus Network and outlined additional changes that had been made to the network since the May 2020 SJJPA Board Meeting. Since the September 2020 SJJPA Board Meeting there have been several minor updates to the San Joaquins Thruway Bus Network.
• Thruway Bus Route 7 (Martinez – Santa Rosa – Eureka – Arcata) has had one additional round trip added between Martinez and Arcata and one additional round trip added between Martinez and Santa Rosa. This route has seen increased ridership over the last several months and was regularly selling out available capacity. Staff recommend to the Executive Director an additional bus be added to this route to provide additional capacity. This additional bus provides two additional round trips as previously outlined.
• Thruway Bus Route 99 (Emeryville – San Francisco) is in the process of procuring a new vendor to take over the operations of this route starting January 1, 2021. The current vendor, Compass Transportation, is relocating out of the city of San Francisco at the end of the year and informed SJJPA, CCJPA, and Amtrak that they would no longer be able to run the service starting January 1st. Amtrak has put a Request for Proposals out to bid and has received back several proposals for this route.
• SJJPA staff and Amtrak have been working together on approval of additional thruway bus capacity for the Thanksgiving holiday period in order to provide additional capacity and to maintain appropriate social distancing on thruway buses throughout the State.
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact. Recommendation: This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
51 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 9 INFORMATION
Update on Hispanic Outreach during COVD-19
Background: Part of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) Marketing & Outreach Plan is reaching out to underserved, and non-English-speaking constituencies along the San Joaquin Corridor. With Hispanics comprising 37% of the 11-county corridor, and recent data supporting that 40% of San Joaquins riders are Hispanic. The SJJPA staff and marketing teams will continue tailoring outreach strategies, providing promotional materials in Spanish, and utilizing informational outlets to reach the Hispanic Community. The grassroots approach of the Business Plan calls for SJJPA to identify and address minority, and non-English speaking constituencies, including Hispanics throughout the San Joaquins Corridor that are underserved or lacking information. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staff and consultants are pursuing digital means for marketing and outreach online to reach and inform the Hispanic Community on Amtrak San Joaquins response to COVID-19, including health and safety measures.
New Strategy: New AmtrakSanJoaquins.com Language Translator Plug-in – SJJPA staff has implemented a translation tool throughout the amtraksanjoaquins.com website. The translations will be achieved via the WordPress plugin Weglot. Website users will be able to select between English, Spanish and Chinese translations via an on-page widget. SJJPA staff will also be able to analyze the translations performance through a Google Analytics integration within the Weglot plugin. To achieve this implementation, Americaneagle.com will deliver on the following project services: programming, front end development, SEO/Google Analytics support, account management and weekly project status reports upon request. Implementation of translator plug-in will provide the SJJPA marketing department data of popular website pages and destinations to plan future Hispanic community engagement strategies in this area of the Marketing Plan.
Continuing Strategies: Continuing activities that have shown to be fruitful avenues of engagement in this component of the Marketing Plan have been Large Event Tabling, Postcard Program, Hispanic Stakeholder Engagement, Hispanic Advertising and Social Media.
52 of 57 Large Event Tabling – Large event tabling continues to be a key grassroots initiative to meet current and potential riders in the Hispanic Community. Due to COVID-19, SJJPA staff and Outreach Teams focused on online engagement and canceled participating in in-person events. SJJPA staff participated in the growing trend of virtual Chamber of Commerce networking mixers and community-based organizations monthly and quarterly meetings to share the San Joaquins COVID-19 response.
Postcard Program – Spanish language postcards previously placed in Hispanic markets within the San Joaquin Corridor were shared by Amtrak San Joaquin station staff to assist passengers in purchasing tickets online at Espanol.Amtrak.com.
Stakeholder Engagement – SJJPA staff continued collaborating with key stakeholder groups that predominantly serve the Hispanic community. El Concilio, Golden Valley Health Centers, Migrant Education Development Centers and local Hispanic Chambers of Commerce are essential partners for developing awareness and getting appropriate messaging to the Hispanic community during the San Joaquins COVID-19 response.
Advertising and Social Media – SJJPA staff has focused Spanish language advertising efforts during the San Joaquins response to COVID-19, primarily using Spanish radio which is a proven conduit into the Hispanic community. In addition, SJJPA is advertising health and safety ads and press releases through Latino Times magazine of Stockton, CA with over 1,000 drop off locations including local businesses and community centers, non-profit organizations, health care centers, doctors' offices, educational institutions, libraries, restaurants and churches. The SJJPA ensures that its English language campaigns include a diverse representation of demographics including the Hispanic demographic.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation: This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
53 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 10 INFORMATION
Update on San Joaquin Valley Rail Committee
Background: The purpose of the San Joaquin Valley Rail Committee (SJVRC) is to discuss and formulate suggestions and ideas for improvements to the Amtrak San Joaquins passenger rail service. The SJVRC was established in 1987 and was managed by Caltrans until the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) took over management in 2015. The SJVRC is part of a larger grassroots effort by the SJJPA to engage and inform citizens about the San Joaquin Rail Service. The SJVRC is a citizen-based committee.
The SJVRC meets 2-4 times a year. The San Joaquin Valley Rail Committee (SJVRC) met virtually on March 13, 2020 and October 9, 2020 due to COVID-19. The Next SJVRC meeting is expected to be scheduled before January 2021 to present initial draft South of Merced study findings to committee members.
Counties authorized to have members include: Alameda, Contra Costa, Fresno, Kern, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Merced, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, and Mariposa. Each county is represented by two members and an alternate. Four additional members may join the committee from counties outside of the counties listed above. Currently, two members represent San Francisco and a single member represents Humboldt County.
SJJPA staff is working with SJJPA Member Agencies, Regional Transportation Planning Agencies, county, city and transit agencies to fill remaining openings. Candidate recommendations will be brought forth to the SJJPA Board for approval. There are two openings for Members (Alameda and Kings) and eight openings for Alternates (Alameda, Contra Costa, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus) for counties where there has been active participation in the SJVRC1.
There have been no representatives from Mariposa County since SJJPA took over as the Managing Agency for the San Joaquins.
54 of 57 To encourage attendance at committee meetings by as many members as possible, the SJJPA Board has established a travel reimbursement policy that allows for some level of compensation for each in-person meeting attended by SJVRC committee members to defray travel costs when using Amtrak San Joaquins rail and bus services.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation:
This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
55 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 11 INFORMATION
Update on Valley Rail Program
Kevin Sheridan, SJJPA Director of Capital Projects, will give a presentation focusing on Valley Rail Program and Stockton Diamond Grade Separation Project updates.
Fiscal Impact: There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation: This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
56 of 57 SAN JOAQUIN JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY November 20, 2020
STAFF REPORT
Item 12 INFORMATION
Executive Director’s Report
Executive Director, Stacey Mortensen, will give the monthly Executive Director’s report.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact.
Recommendation:
This is an informational item. There is no action requested.
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