VALLEY TRANSIT 1401 West Rose Street Walla Walla WA 99362

Prepared by Valley Transit Staff TransitDate of Public Development Hearings: July -- & August Plan --, 2017 Adopted on August 17, 2017 Resolution 2017-XX

Prepared By Valley Transit Staff Date of Public Hearings: June 15th and August 17th Adopted on August 17, 2017

INTRODUCTION

Valley Transit is dedicated to providing high quality and efficient public transportation services that are responsive to the needs of the entire community, promoting quality of life and a healthy economy.

The 2016 Annual Report and the Transit Development Plan for 2017−2022 provides updated information to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) on development of the various public transportation components undertaken by Valley Transit, Valley Transit’s 2016 accomplishments, and proposed action strategies for 2017−2022. Valley Transit is federally classified as a small urban transit system serving an urbanized area with a population size between 50,000 and 200,000.

This document is submitted as required by RCW § 35.58.2795. Valley Transit is required to prepare a six-year transit development plan and annual report and submit it to the Washington State Department of Transportation. WSDOT uses this document to prepare an annual report for the Washington State Legislature summarizing the status of public transportation systems in the State. The document is also used to notify the public about projects that have been completed, are in process, or are planned for the future.

Valley Transit’s 2017−2022 Transit Development Plan establishes the agency’s direction over the next six years and provides guidance for the development and delivery of future transit service in the Walla Walla County Public Transportation Benefit Area (PTBA). The Plan conforms to state public transportation policy objectives and supports local comprehensive planning and economic objectives within the Walla Walla Valley.

The intent of the Plan is to provide a framework to guide service delivery through the next six years within the constraints of available resources. The Plan’s objective is to sustain and improve access to services and activities such as employment, shopping, medical facilities, educational facilities, housing and other essential services, regardless of a person’s age, income, or physical challenges. The Plan is reviewed annually and will be adjusted to reflect any significant changes that affect community needs or Valley Transit’s services.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. ORGANIZATION ...... 3

II. PHYSICAL PLANT ...... 4

III. SERVICE CHARACTERISTICS & FARE STRUCTURE ...... 4

IV. SERVICE CONNECTIONS ...... 6

V. ACTIVITIES & ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2016 ...... 7

VI. PROPOSED ACTION STRATEGIES AND GOALS 2017 - 2022 ...... 11 1. Preservation ...... 11 2. Safety...... 13 3. Mobility ...... 14 4. Environment ...... 15 5. Stewardship ...... 16 6. Economic Vitality ...... 17

VII. 2017-2022 SERVICES, FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT ...... 17

VIII. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM/BUDGET ...... 21

IX. OPERATING DATA ...... 22

X. OPERATING REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES, 2017 - 2022 ...... 24

XI. ASSUMPTIONS…………………………………………………………….. 27

APPENDIXES ...... 28

Appendix A: Requested Services & Projects Appendix B: Organization Chart Appendix C Route Maps and Schedules

Section I: ORGANIZATION

Valley Transit is a special-purpose municipal corporation providing public transportation services to the cities of Walla Walla and College Place, and parts of unincorporated Walla Walla County. The Public Transportation Benefit Area (PTBA) was created in 1980 by a public vote approving a sales tax of three-tenths of one percent to fund operations. Valley Transit began operations in January of 1981. A special election held February 9, 2010, asked voters to approve an additional three-tenths of one percent of sales tax assessment. The initiative was approved by 76% of voters.

Valley Transit is governed by an eight-member Board of Directors comprised of two Walla Walla County Commissioners, three elected officials from the City of Walla Walla, two elected officials from the City of College Place, and one non-voting member representing the interests of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local #757. Board meetings are held the third Thursday of every month.

During 2016, Jerry Cummins, City of Walla Walla Council Member served as Board Chair, and City of College Place Council Member Heather Schermann, served as Vice Chair.

The responsibility for the operation of Valley Transit is vested with the General Manager, Richard Fondahn.

As of December 31, 2016, Valley Transit employed 43 full-time and 14 part-time employees, with a total head count of 57. Details for these statistics are shown on the table below.

FTE (based Department Head Count on 40 hour week) Operations Fixed route 21 15.9 Operations Dial-a-ride 8 6.1 Operations Saturday and Evening Service 3 2.0 Job Access 2 1.4 Dispatch, Customer Service, Road Supervisor 5 4.3 Vehicle Maintenance 4 3.9 Non-Vehicle Maintenance 6 4.4 Operations & Maintenance Management 2 1.7 General Administration and Finance 4 3.2 General Management 2 1.7 Total 57 44.6 ATU 757 Represented Staff (from above list) 44 Non Represented Staff (from above list) 13

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 3 August 2017

Section II: PHYSICAL PLANT

Valley Transit’s combined administration, maintenance and operations facility is located at 1401 West Rose Street, Walla Walla Washington.

Valley Transit also owns and operates two transit centers, Market Station is located at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Main Street, in the heart of downtown Walla Walla, the K-Mart transfer center is located at 2200 East Isaacs Avenue in Walla Walla’s Eastgate shopping district.

Valley Transit’s newly renovated Market Station serves as the primary intermodal link to public transportation throughout the region. This facility includes a customer service office, 10 passenger boarding zones and is served by 7 of Valley Transit’s fixed-routes and four other transit agencies.

Section Ill: SERVICE CHARACTERISTICS & FARE STRUCTURE

Valley Transit serves the Walla Walla and College Place area offering fixed-route service a variety of van based special transportation services under the name Valley Transit Plus; including Dial-A-Ride, Evening and Saturday Flex-Route Service, Job Access, and Vanpool.

Fixed-Route The fixed-route service encompasses nine fixed routes operating from 6:15 am to 5:50 pm, Monday through Friday. The fixed-route service deviates upon demand to the Walla Walla Airport and SonBridge Community Center.

Dial-A-Ride Valley Transit offers a complementary Dial-A-Ride paratransit service for ADA-eligible individuals who are unable to utilize the fixed-route bus system. Dial-A-Ride services are offered from 6:15 am to 5:50 pm, Monday through Friday with an advance reservation.

Evening and Saturday Flex-Routes The Evening and Saturday Flex-Routes provide general-public, demand-responsive transit service weekday evenings from 5:45 pm to 9:10 pm and Saturdays from 10:45 am to 6:10 pm. Three buses are used to provide the service. Two trolley buses operate flex-routes which offer route deviations of up to one-fourth of a mile upon request. One minibus is the Connector, floating throughout the community in a demand-responsive mode, providing linkages to the two flex-routes for people who live more than one-fourth of a mile from the flex-routes and for people of disability who cannot use a flex-route due to the nature of their disability.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 4 August 2017

Job Access The Job Access program provides transportation for work activities to those who meet certain federal low-income guidelines. The Job Access program provides transportation seven days a week from 5:00 am to 11:30 pm. Job Access trips are provided with Fixed-Route, Dial-A-Ride, and Evening & Saturday Flex-Routes during normal operating hours, 6:15 am to 9:10 pm weekdays; and 10:45 am to 6:15 pm Saturday. Job Access trips outside the normal operating hours are provided using a reservation-based, demand-responsive system.

Vanpool Valley Transit maintains a fleet of five 12-passenger vanpool vans used to transport groups of people who commute a minimum of 15 miles with one or both ends of the trip within the Public Transportation Benefit Area. Each group must have a minimum of five active riders and a minimum of two riders must meet the requirements to become a vanpool van driver prior to having a van assigned to the group. The costs directly associated with the Vanpool Program are offset by usage fees charged to the individual vanpool groups.

Fare structure for Valley Transit services at 2016 year-end: Cash Fares

One-Way Trip...... $0.50 Reduced Fare* (With Reduced Fare Permit)...... $0.25

Tickets and Monthly Passes

Full Fare Pass**...... $20.00 Special Transportation Needs Pass***...... $10.00 20 Trip Convenience Ticket Book...... $10.00 Dial-A-Ride****

One-Way Trip...... $0.75 15 Trip Dial-A-Ride Convenience Ticket Book...... $10.00 Dial-A-Ride Monthly Pass...... $12.00 Job Access*****

Job Access Monthly Pass...... $12.00

*Reduced Cash Fares are available for people with disabilities and adults 65 years and older. **Full Fare Monthly Passes are valid for all services that the customer is qualified to use. ***Special Transportation Needs Passes are available for people with disabilities, low-income, youth 18 years and under, adults 65 years and older. ****Dial-A-Ride is limited to persons with disabilities and adults 70 years and older, certification is required. *****Job Access is available for customers that must meet certain income qualifications to use for work related transportation when Valley Transit’s regular services are closed.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 5 August 2017

Section IV: SERVICE CONNECTIONS

Valley Transit provides intermodal linkages to the Walla Walla Regional Airport, Travel Washington’s Grape Line intercity bus service between Pasco and Walla Walla, the City of Milton-Freewater Bus, Kayak Public Transit the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation intercity service between Pendleton and Walla Walla, and the Columbia County Public Transportation system between Dayton and Walla Walla. In addition, three hospitals and most medical clinics in Walla Walla and College Place have fixed-route service and all medical clinics have paratransit service. Valley Transit’s fixed routes serve all community educational facilities, including public and private elementary schools, middle and high schools, as well as Walla Walla Community College, Whitman College, and Walla Walla University. Valley Transit’s Market Station transfer center serves as a transfer point for intercity bus connections to many cities and towns in Southeastern Washington and Northeast Oregon. The Grape Line intercity bus service provides public transportation between Walla Walla, Touchet, Burbank, and Pasco three times daily with service to Ben Franklin Transit, Greyhound, Amtrak, and the Tri-City Airport. Columbia County Public Transportation vehicles provide transportation between Dayton, Waitsburg, and Walla Walla. The City of Milton- Freewater Bus utilizes Market Station transfer center as they transport passengers between Walla Walla and Milton-Freewater; and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Kayak Public Transit uses Market Station as a transfer point for intercity bus connections to Milton-Freewater, Athena, Weston, Pendleton, Mission, the Wildhorse Travel Plaza, and other towns in Oregon. Grant County’s People Mover from John Day Oregon also uses Market Station for connections to the regions other public transportation providers.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 6 August 2017

Section V: ACTIVITIES & ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2016

Improve mobility in small urban and rural areas

Valley Transit representatives interact with the public at community sponsored events and public meetings. Valley Transit was able to represent itself in the Veterans Day Parade, Fourth of July in the Park, Frontier Days Parade, and the Italian Heritage Festival. Valley Transit also provided a Trolley for the Farmers’ Market Children’s reading Program.

Members of Valley Transit’s senior management serve on the Walla Walla Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (WWVMPO) Governing Board and Technical Advisory Committee.

By attending public meetings, staff was able to gather comments and information from the public regarding current services and requests for future service enhancements.

Customer comments are reviewed on a regular basis and presented to the Valley Transit Board of Directors at monthly board meetings.

The primary focus of Valley Transit’s public outreach is to promote transit as a viable transportation option to local employees and students. Valley Transit’s “Fare Free Summer Vacation” promotes transit by removing barriers. The success of this promotion is easily measured by the strong summer ridership and the many new faces reported to be boarding our Trolleys in the summer. Many in the community take this opportunity to give transit a try while taking the kids on a trolley ride.

In 2016 Valley Transit accomplished the following:

• Maintained exceptional paratransit service while exceeding requirements set by the ADA for eligible passengers inside the ADA mandated service area.

• Participated in the state-wide Guest Rider program.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 7 August 2017 • Completed annual operator evaluations.

• Provided outreach to the community through a presence and dissemination of information at community events including Fourth of July in the Park, Farmers’ Market, and several local parades.

• Participation in an online regional ridesharing network that now covers Washington, Oregon and part of Idaho.

• Provided over 712,424 fixed route, route-deviated and paratransit passenger trips.

• Vanpool program provided a total of 7,959 passenger trips.

• Continued to work closely with the Walla Walla Valley Sub-Regional Transportation Planning Organization and the Walla Walla Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization.

• Valley Transit completed the renovation and expansion of Market Station transfer center. Market Station houses the Valley Transit’s customer service center and the Grape Line ticket office. The facility also houses on-site security officers, operator rest area and public restrooms. Market Station provides intermodal connections to regional airports, intercity bus lines and rural transit providers.

• Placed two additional passenger waiting shelters to improve access and customer convenience.

• Worked with the City of Walla Walla to develop a streamlined process gaining approval to place passenger waiting shelters at major boarding locations throughout the community.

• Ordered five additional passenger waiting shelters for placement in early 2017.

• Valley Transit held operator training with presentations on:

 Active Shooter Awareness.  Conflict and Aggression Management.  Emergency procedures for perceived threats, dispatch function, and event documentation.  Bodily fluids, new federal regulations regarding the ADA and CDL’s; accident refreshers such as causes, emergency procedures and required documentation at monthly operator meetings.  First aid training on CPR and using an AED.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 8 August 2017

• Upgraded all computers from Windows XP to Windows 7 and installed a new VoIP phone system in 2016.

• In 2016, worked jointly with IT contractors from the Washington State Transit Insurance Pool (WSTIP) and Ag-Data to improve server reliability and network security.

• Valley Transit’s Maintenance Department:

 surplused and auctioned off unused items and out-of-service vehicles.

 continued its upgrade of the CNG station to improve safety systems.

 worked closely with Apollo Inc. in support of the renovation and reconstruction of Market Station.

 removed four shelters from College Avenue to facilitate the CARS construction project.

 developed specifications for the purchase of four battery-electric trolley buses and the facility improvements require to support the vehicles in fixed- route service.

• Valley Transit’s website was improved to make it easier to update rider alerts and other pertinent information.

• Valley Transit participated in the City of Walla Walla’s Comprehensive Plan update providing input for the transportation element of the Plan.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 9 August 2017 During the 2015−2017 state biennium, Valley Transit was awarded two federally funded capital grants and two state funded formula grants to support operations. The following table presents the total amounts awarded for the biennium:

Grant Source Grant Grant $ VT's Match $

2015-2017 Public Transportation FTA 5310 Information Consolidated Grant Technology Grant $293,761 $73,441

FTA 5310 Capital 2015-2017 Public Transportation Grant $307,596 $76,899 Consolidated Grant Three (3) CNG Powered Cutaway Paratransit Buses 2015-2017 Public Transportation WSDOT Special Needs Consolidated Grant Transit Formula $255,562 $-0- Funding 2015-2017 Public Transportation Transit Sales Tax Consolidated Grant Equalization Formula $422,759 $-0- Funding Total $1,279,678 $150,340

During 2016, Valley Transit applied for two federally funded capital grants. The following table presents the purpose and amounts requested:

Grant Source Grant Grant $ VT's Match $

Federal Transit Administration* FTA 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Funding $2,356,608 $589,152 Purchase four (4) 35- foot Battery Electric Buses FTA 5310 Capital 2017-2019 Public Transportation Grant $307,596 $76,899 Consolidated Grant** Four (4) CNG Powered Cutaway Paratransit Buses Total $2,664,204 $666,051

*Funding was awarded 2-24-2017 **Funding was awarded contingent on the successful passage of the Washington State 2017-2019 Transportation Budget.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 10 August 2017 Section VI: PROPOSED ACTION STRATEGIES & GOALS 2017-2022

Goals, Mission and Strategies, 2017−2022

The Washington State Department of Transportation requires that transit agencies report their progress towards accomplishing the state’s public transportation objectives. These objectives are identified in Washington State’s Transportation Plan. Valley Transit’s actions and strategies over the coming six years will be guided by the organization’s mission statement and goals, which are consistent with Washington State goals, enabling personal mobility, partnering with communities, establishing sustainable financial stability, supporting economic opportunity, protecting the environment, conserving energy and protecting our investments.

Additional unfunded projects may be completed as funding becomes available. Conversely, some projects may be postponed if anticipated revenues decrease.

The proposed changes in this plan are action strategies that reflect upon the following Washington State Transportation Service Objectives and Goals.

1. Preservation

To maintain, preserve, and extend the life and utility of prior investments in transportation systems and services.

2017 Current 2018-2022 Planned Effort Effort

Preserve existing transportation service levels: Valley Transit (VT) made no service cuts in 2016. VT will continue to be diligent controlling costs and finding savings.

ADA Paratransit Services: In areas that have fixed route service, ADA paratransit service provides safe, effective and efficient door-to-door specialized transportation service, fully compliant with the ADA requirements, for people unable to utilize the fixed route system. This service is provided within a ¾ mile boundary of the fixed route service routes.

Improve Access to the Transportation Services: Make general public services as attractive and usable as possible for seniors and people with special needs and promote them as the preferred mobility option. Valley Transit will continue efforts to add passenger amenities (i.e.,

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 11 August 2017 shelters & benches) and accessibility enhancements.

Valley Transit will continue its efforts to establish a regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to improve access to transit services by providing mobile access to real-time bus locations and schedules. Utilizing funding from an FTA Section 5310 capital assistance grant, Valley Transit will procure a scalable ITS system that can be expanded to incorporate the region’s other transit providers with the goal of providing a “one-stop” location for trip planning.

Valley Transit will continue to analyze fixed route service performance standards. These standards help guide future service adjustments and assist in the decision making process for service expansion, reduction or elimination.

Valley Transit will continue to offer transit services to non-traditional customers via the van pool program.

Valley Transit works closely with city and county agencies to promote integrated community design, land use, and transportation investments that improve the quality of life. In addition, Valley Transit will work to secure appropriate mitigations (shelters, pullouts, fee in lieu of, etc.) from land use development.

Improvements to Specialized Transportation Service: Continually refine specialized transportation operating methods, using technology where appropriate, to enhance service quality, customer service and efficiency.

In addition to establishing a regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to improve access to transit services by providing mobile access to real-time bus locations and schedules; Valley Transit continually monitors, upgrades, and fine tunes its automated paratransit dispatching system to maintain a high level of service and ensure customer accessibility.

Preserve existing public transportation facilities and equipment

In 2017−2022 vehicles and other equipment will continue to be maintained in a state of good repair; Valley Transit will continue to seek funding and maintain adequate reserves to be used for scheduled replacement or refurbishment of equipment as illustrated in Section VIl, Rolling Stock. Valley Transit’s maintenance department has an aggressive preventative maintenance program for all vehicles. This program will be used to extend the life of our fleet until sufficient funding becomes available to meet our fleet replacement needs. Valley Transit will continue to provide preventive maintenance on its administration, operations, and maintenance facility, as well as replacing office and maintenance equipment to maintain a state of good repair.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 12 August 2017

2. Safety

To provide for and improve the safety and security of transportation customers and the transportation system.

2017 Current 2018-2022 Planned Effort Effort

Valley Transit had twenty-five (25) preventable accidents from 2012 through 2016. Below is a chart of Valley Transit’s safety record.

Accident Chargeable Passenger Employee Vanpool Year Caused By Accident Event Injury Event Other 2012 6 6 6 5 0

2013 3 2 2 1 0

2014 5 1 3 3 0

2015 4 7 1 4 0

2016 7 3 4 5 2

Valley Transit monitors all services on a daily basis to ensure the safety of passengers and employees. VT participates in local and regional efforts to increase and improve security components on routes, and at bus stop locations throughout the service area.

Valley Transit is working collaboratively with the local law enforcement agencies and emergency services to ensure the safety of the community.

Valley Transit provides security for passengers and operators by installing camera & video surveillance equipment in the entire fleet.

To enhance security, Valley Transit has contracted with Pacific Security to provide on-site security officers at Market Station transfer center during all hours of operation.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 13 August 2017

3. Mobility

To improve the predictable movement of goods and people throughout Washington State.

2017 Current 2018-2022 Planned Effort Effort

Effective Community-based Design: Valley Transit provides viable connections throughout the region with coordinated connections with the Milton-Freewater City Bus, Kayak Public Transit, Columbia County Public Transportation System, Travel Washington’s Grape Line, and Grant County Oregon’s People Mover.

Improve mobility in small urban and rural areas: As part of an ongoing comprehensive service planning effort, Valley Transit will continue investigating opportunities to enhance coordination with the regions rural transit providers. In 2015, Valley Transit acted as the lead agency for a planning study to inventory the region’s transportation assets, study the needs and travel patterns of its residents, and identify areas where access to transportation could be improved through better coordination. During 2016, Valley Transit and its regional partners continued this effort with a meeting to discuss route coordination and explore other areas where efficiencies might be gained.

Valley Transit remains focused on public outreach. Valley Transit’s target groups are millennials, low-income passengers, seniors, people without cars, commuters, veterans, tourists and seasonal riders. Valley Transit will continue to be actively involved with local committees to identify service strategies and coordination for special needs populations and will continue to seek special needs funding from state, federal and private sources where possible. Valley Transit will continue to collaborate with federal, tribal, state, regional, local and private transportation partners.

Service Marketing and Public Involvement: Valley Transit continued its efforts to keep the public informed regarding transit operations and policies and encourage community involvement. During 2016, Valley Transit accomplished the following:

• Engaged in at least three community events for educational purposes. • Collected community feedback through customer comments, public hearings and participating in community planning activities. Increased efforts to keep riders informed through rider alert onboard notices and the Valley Transit website. • Revamped the website for easier to update rider alerts. • Renewed the Fare Free Summer Vacation campaign to promote ridership, which once again will continue in the summer of 2017.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 14 August 2017 • Initiated a “Ride Transit, Shop Local” campaign to promote ridership and support the local economy.

4. Environment

To enhance Washington’s quality of life through transportation investments that promote energy conservation, enhance healthy communities, and protect the environment.

2017 Current 2018-2022 Planned Effort Effort

Maintain Air Quality: Transportation services and facilities help maintain air quality by meeting air quality health standards. Valley Transit will continue to expand its use of technologies and fuels that reduce emissions. Valley Transit is currently the only transit in Washington State to operate its entire paratransit vehicle fleet on compressed natural gas. Valley Transit also operates three CNG powered fixed-route buses in daily service. Valley Transit was recently awarded a federal grant for the purchase of four battery-electric buses that will replace four buses that have exceeded their useful life. Valley Transit is seeking funding to replace all of its diesel powered fixed-route buses with plug-in battery-electric buses.

Meet State Water Quality Standards: Valley Transit services and facilities help maintain water quality by meeting water quality standards.

Reuse and Recycle Resource Materials: Valley Transit services and facilities prudently use, reuse, and recycle resource materials. Valley Transit views sustainability as an important element of design criteria for transit facilities and has incorporated green building design standards during the reconstruction of Market Station transfer center.

Congestion Relief: Valley Transit’s services provide a convenient low-cost transportation alternative for those choosing to play their part in the reduction of the societal, environmental, and economic costs of congestion.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 15 August 2017

Reduce SOV Use and Implement Commute Trip Reduction Methods:

The Washington State Legislature passed the Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) Law in 1991 to call on employers to encourage their workers to drive alone less often, reduce carbon emissions and keep the busiest commute routes flowing.

Valley Transit encourages and supports a variety of methods and ideas to promote the reduction of single occupancy vehicle (SOV) use such as:

• Carpool, vanpool, bus, bicycle, or walking. • Encourage Rideshare Online (www.rideshareonline.com). • Fare Free Summer Vacation promotion to motivate new riders to try transit. • Continue to market and expand the Vanpool program. • Work with local employers to offer employees a chance to try transit. • Continue to partner with employers, local governments, the Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO), and the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) to ensure local and regional coordination of transportation plans.

5. Stewardship

To continually improve the quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of the transportation system.

2017 Current 2018-2022 Planned Effort Effort

Integrate public transportation services into a coordinated system linked by multimodal facilities. Valley Transit’s six-year planning horizon includes the development and implementation of a regional Intelligent Transportation System to provide mobile access to real- time bus locations and scheduling information. This system will also include a smart kiosk at Market Station to alert passengers of bus locations along with pending arrival and departure times.

Valley Transit will continue operational and planning coordination with the region’s other public transportation providers, including Washington State Department of Transportation, Columbia County Public Transportation, Milton-Freewater City Bus, Kayak Public Transit, Grape Line, and Grant County People Mover.

Valley Transit is exploring the need to hire a consultant to formulate a modern Comprehensive Plan.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 16 August 2017

6. Economic Vitality

To promote and develop transportation systems that stimulate, support, and enhance the movement of people and goods to ensure a prosperous economy.

2017 Current 2018-2022 Planned Effort Effort

Connecting local economies: Valley transit continues to build relationships with the region’s other public transportation providers to identify opportunities for service enhancements through improved coordination. Valley Transit’s Market Station provides links to communities throughout the region. With the intermodal connections to the two regional airports and the Tri-Cities multimodal center featuring connections to Amtrak and Greyhound, it is possible to travel anywhere in the world.

Support for Tourism: Recreational travelers have convenient and inviting access to tourist destinations, and through the Fare-Free Summer Vacation promotion are encouraged to use transit. Operators report many new faces coming onboard during the summer promotion.

Section VII: 2017-2022 SERVICES, FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT

The proposed changes 2017−2022, identified in Section VII, are actions and strategies that reflect the state public transportation goals and policy objectives as well as Valley Transit’s priorities. It also identifies the methods and materials needed to achieve them. Many of the projects will require funding beyond what is currently available, or will require more funding than is anticipated to be available in the near term. A list of unfunded projects & service requests, both capital and operational, is included in Appendix A.

Capital Projects – System Wide:

• Purchase and implement a regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to provide mobile access to real-time bus location and schedules.

• Purchase and install electronic voice annunciators on all Valley Transit fixed-route vehicles to announce stops and provide bus location information for those with sight impairment.

• Install a charging station at Market Station to support battery-electric fixed-route trolley buses.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 17 August 2017

Capital Assets – Other Building & Structures:

• Renovate Crawford Park converting it into a transit plaza adjacent to Market Station.

• Continue work to upgrade the maintenance facility to meet current building codes applicable to facilities that maintain and store CNG powered buses including:

• Lighting Upgrades – lowering lighting fixtures and replacing expensive current incandescent lights with LEDs. • Replacing and repositioning CoRayVac radiant heating system. • Adding ventilation system to improve the air recycle rate and provide emergency exhaust system for gas fumes in the case of unscheduled release. • Add methane detection to detect any unscheduled release and activate emergency systems.

• Rebuild the main facilitie’s asphalt parking.

• Construct a purpose-built Dial-A-Ride parking structure for the storage of CNG paratransit vans.

Capital Assets – Revenue Vehicles:

• Complete the competitive procurement process to meet Federal Transit Administration (FTA) standards for the purchase of four 35-foot, no-emission, battery-electric, rubber tire trolley replica buses for use in fixed-route service.

• 2017 includes the purchase of seven, CNG powered, paratransit mini-buses for use in Dial-A-Ride service.

• Based on the outcome of grant funding, future purchases of up to thirteen 35-foot, no- emission, battery-electric, rubber tire trolley replica buses are planned throughout the six-year planning period.

• Similarly, based on the outcome of applications for grant funding, Valley Transit will replace its remaining four paratransit vans during the six-year planning period. The industry standard useful life for this style of vehicle is between 5 – 6 years.

Capital Assets – Service Equipment:

• Replace CNG fuel dispensers and card access system.

• Purchase equipment to service and maintain battery-electric buses.

• Purchase and install charging stations for slow-charging battery-electric buses.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 18 August 2017

• Replace diesel underground storage tanks that are more than twenty-five years old.

• Replace mobile bus hoists.

Additional projects, listed in Appendix A, may be completed as funding becomes available. Conversely, some projects listed below may be postponed if anticipated revenues decrease. The accomplishments and actions completed in 2016 are listed in Section V of this document.

Services

Expansion 2017-2022

• Explore ways to expand bicycle-rider options for using transit.

• Review and adjust routing as required to effectively serve the Walla Walla Town Center once reconstruction is completed.

• Encourage local businesses to promote employee ridership programs.

• Continue to develop and improve the marketing plan. Explore options such as; online outreach, mobile access to services, and social media.

• Identify and market links between transit and trails for bicycle riders and pedestrians.

• Identify opportunities to expand funding for additional services & capital improvements: • Downtown parking shuttle. • Increase frequency of the Main Line and other key routes.

• Planning:

• Work with developers and local governments to add service, shelters, bus pullouts, rider- controlled light signals at stops, etc., to new commercial areas and housing developments as appropriate. • Explore alternate bus routes and modes to service new residential and commercial developments. • Continue long-range planning and develop surveys to gather travel planning data, measure system effectiveness, and customer satisfaction. • Update the vanpool marketing plan. • Continue to partner with community organizations for various activities.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 19 August 2017 Facilities

Expansion 2017-2022

• Create a transit plaza adjacent to Market Station to support multimodal connections.

• Improve bus stops for customers with limited mobility adding simi-seats and shelters.

Equipment - Rolling Stock

(Note: Heavy-duty and medium-duty buses are also referred to as large transit coaches.)

This six-year plan supports maintaining existing service and expanding Dial-A-Ride paratransit service as required. It is anticipated that paratransit service expansion will be funded primarily through sales tax revenue growth and additional WSDOT Special Transportation Needs formula funding. Revenue service vehicles are normally funded through federal capital assistance grants that provide funding up to 80% of the purchase price, and require a 20% match from Valley Transit.

Preservation & Expansion 2017−2022

Planned Vehicle Orders by Year 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

Replacement Large Transit Coaches 4 5 3 1 0 3

Replacement Medium-Duty Cutaways 0 0 1 0 0 0

Replacement Dial-a-Ride Cutaways 7 0 3 0 0 3

Replacement Vanpool Vans 0 5 0 0 0 0

Expansion Vanpool Vans 0 0 0 0 0 0

Equipment - Other than Rolling Stock

Preservation & Expansion 2017−2022

• Improve digital radio system.

• Add vehicle location capability to radio system and fleet automated vehicle location (AVL).

• Upgrade dispatching software and phone system to provide auto call reservations for Job Access service, arrival alerts for Dial-A-Ride service, and other interactive features.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 20 August 2017

• Install sixteen (16) passenger waiting shelters at major boarding locations.

• Add shelters, simi-seats, and other transit related amenities at key boarding locations.

• Continue to install solar lighting in shelters.

Section VIII: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM / BUDGET

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Preservation Transit Base Preserve & Upgrade $880,203 $600,000 $45,000 $295,000 $247,250 $49,613 $52,093 Passenger Amenities & Services $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Equipment $58,176 $51,538 $92,364 $53,233 $64,144 $55,101 $21,107 Replacement Service Vehicles $0 $25,000 $0 $0 $42,583 $44,286 $125,014 Large Transit Coaches $27,635 $2,945,760 $4,056,000 $3,374,592 $877,394 $0 $2,846,968 4@ 6 @ 4 @ 1 @ 3 @

Notes 736,440 811,200 843,648 877,394 948,989 DAR Cutaway Vehicles $7,269 $1,012,503 $0 $477,204 $0 $0 $536,790 4 @ 147,067 3 @ 4 @

Notes 3 @ 141,411 159,068 134,198 Vanpool Vans $0 $0 $189,706 $0 $0 $0 $0 Notes 5 @ 37,941 Preservation Totals $973,283 $4,634,801 $4,383,070 $4,200,029 $1,231,371 $149,000 $3,581,971

Expansion Passenger Amenities & Services $0 $65,000 $350,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 Notes Equipment/Service Vehicles $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 New Facility Design/Construction $0 $0 $0 $300,000 $0 $0 $0 Enhance HPTC Park & Ride $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 ITS Improvements $21,085 $367,202 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Transit Shelters & I-Stops $5,322 $25,500 $27,500 $27,500 $29,500 $29,500 $29,500 Vanpool Vans $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Notes Expansion Totals $26,407 $457,702 $377,500 $327,500 $29,500 $29,500 $29,500 Total Capital Expense $999,690 $5,092,503 $4,760,570 $4,527,529 $1,260,871 $178,500 $3,611,471

Anticipated Capital $0 $3,460,371 $3,489,653 $3,151,437 $771,915 $0 $2,707,006 Grant Revenues

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 21 August 2017

Section IX: OPERATING DATA

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Fixed-Route Revenue Hours 25,012 25,806 25,832 25,858 25,883 25,909 25,935 Total Vehicle Hours 26,012 26,820 26,847 26,874 26,901 26,927 26,954 Revenue Miles 306,204 305,332 305,637 305,943 306,249 306,555 306,862 Total Vehicle Miles 324,922 322,800 323,123 323,446 323,769 324,093 324,417 Passenger Trips 625,522 645,030 645,675 646,321 646,967 647,614 648,262 Fatalities 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Reportable Injuries 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 Collisions 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gasoline 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 CNG Fuel Consumed 9,713 9,800 9,810 9,820 9,829 9,839 9,849 Diesel Fuel Consumed 66,875 66,300 66,366 66,433 66,499 66,566 66,632

Route-Deviated Revenue Hours 3,013 2,975 2,978 2,981 2,984 2,987 2,990 Total Vehicle Hours 3,465 3,360 3,363 3,367 3,370 3,373 3,377 Revenue Miles 33,836 34,250 34,284 34,319 34,353 34,387 34,422 Total Vehicle Miles 35,905 36,360 36,396 36,433 36,469 36,506 36,542 Passenger Trips 38,147 38,459 38,497 38,536 38,574 38,613 38,652 Fatalities 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Reportable Injuries 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Collisions 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gasoline 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 CNG Fuel Consumed 1,137 1,030 1,031 1,032 1,033 1,034 1,035 Diesel Fuel Consumed 7,573 7,350 7,357 7,365 7,372 7,379 7,387

** Years 2017-2022 are based off the 2016 actual data and reflects a small amount of growth due to urban sprawl and increased traffic.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 22 August 2017 Operating Data continued:

2016 2017 2018~ 2019~ 2020 2021 2022 Dial-A-Ride** Revenue Hours 13,584 13,545 14,402 15,259 15,274 15,290 15,305 Total Vehicle Hours 14,263 14,240 15,097 15,954 15,970 15,986 16,002 Revenue Miles 151,501 143,400 152,461 161,522 161,684 161,845 162,007 Total Vehicle Miles 160,761 150,760 159,821 168,882 169,051 169,220 169,389 Passenger Trips 48,755 47,863 50,597 53,331 53,384 53,438 53,491 Fatalities 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Reportable Injuries 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Collisions 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 CNG Fuel Consumed 36,530 35,800 37,948 40,096 40,136 40,176 40,216 Diesel Fuel Consumed 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Vanpools*** 3.0 Vans 4.0 Vans 4.0 Vans 4.0 Vans 4.0 Vans 4.0 Vans 4.0 Vans Revenue Hours 1,497 1,946 1,946 1,946 1,946 1,946 1,946 Total Vehicle Miles 7,959 10,347 10,347 10,347 10,347 10,347 10,347 Passenger Trips 66,166 86,016 86,016 86,016 86,016 86,016 86,016 Fatalities 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Reportable Injuries 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Collisions 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gasoline 4,552 5,918 5,918 5,918 5,918 5,918 5,918 Biodiesel Fuel Consumed 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Diesel Fuel Consumed 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

~ Anticipates Dial-A-Ride expansion due to increased demand in 2018 and 2019. ** Years 2017-2022 are estimated based off the 2016 actual data adjusted for the addition of one half-time demand response vehicle to be added in 2018 and 2019. *** Years 2017-2022 Vanpool estimates are based off of 2016 actual data and adjusted for the addition of one Vanpool in 2017.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 23 August 2017

Section X: OPERATING REVENUES & EXPENDITURES, 2016-2022

2016 Actual 2017 PROJ. 2018 PROJ. 2019 PROJ. 2020 PROJ. 2021 PROJ. 2022 PROJ.

General Fund Beginning Fund $600,766 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 Balance Operating Revenue

Sales Tax $4,948,082 $4,978,654 $5,252,480 $5,488,842 $5,680,951 $5,879,784 $6,079,697

State Operating Grant $251,828 $337,055 $315,000 $315,000 $320,000 $305,000 $305,000 Local Grants & $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 Contributions Fares $169,388 $170,000 $171,700 $173,417 $175,151 $176,903 $178,672 Federal (5307) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Operating Grant Other Federal Grants $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Vanpool $30,218 $32,000 $60,000 $60,600 $61,206 $61,818 $62,436

Misc. Revenue $57,310 $58,500 $50,843 $52,128 $48,854 $63,453 $92,695 Total Operating $5,459,326 $5,578,709 $5,852,523 $6,092,487 $6,288,662 $6,489,458 $6,721,000 Revenue

Operating Expenses

Administration $729,520 $790,647 $819,484 $861,838 $900,458 $923,896 $953,744

Vehicle Maintenance $1,062,277 $1,069,850 $1,108,870 $1,166,181 $1,218,438 $1,250,154 $1,290,542

Facility Maintenance $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 General $2,776,941 $3,113,772 $3,227,340 $3,394,141 $3,546,234 $3,638,543 $3,756,091 Operations/Vanpool Operating Expenses - $4,568,738 $4,974,269 $5,155,695 $5,422,159 $5,665,130 $5,812,593 $6,000,377 Subtotal Depreciation on $664,235 $600,484 $612,494 $624,744 $618,496 $630,866 $643,483 Capital Assets Total Operating $5,232,973 $5,574,753 $5,768,188 $6,046,903 $6,283,626 $6,443,459 $6,643,860 Expenses Operating Surplus $226,353 $3,956 $84,335 $45,584 $5,036 $45,999 $77,140 (Loss)

Capital Revenue Federal (5307) Capital $0 $2,356,608 $0 $2,699,674 $701,915 $0 $2,277,574 Grant Other Federal Capital $0 $1,103,763 $3,394,800 $451,763 $70,000 $0 $429,432 Grants

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 24 August 2017 State Capital Grants $0 $0 $94,853 $0 $0 $0 $0 Interest Income - $6,869 $8,751 $7,124 $5,080 $3,384 $3,606 $4,146 Vehicle Repl. Reserve Interest Income - $5,489 $6,090 $4,666 $4,770 $4,362 $4,552 $5,468 Facility Reserve Capital Revenue Totals $12,358 $3,475,212 $3,501,443 $3,161,288 $779,661 $8,158 $2,716,621

Capital Projects

Vehicle Replacement $34,904 $3,958,262 $4,056,000 $3,851,796 $877,394 $0 $3,383,758

Vanpool $0 $0 $189,706 $0 $0 $0 $0

New/Repl Serv. Vehicles $0 $25,000 $0 $0 $42,583 $44,286 $125,014

ITS Improvements $21,085 $367,202 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Facility Improvement $880,203 $665,000 $395,000 $295,000 $47,250 $49,613 $52,093

Misc. Capital Projects $42,426 $35,000 $0 $335,000 $200,000 $35,000 $0 Office Furniture & $15,750 $16,538 $92,364 $18,233 $64,144 $20,101 $21,107 Equipment New Facilities Capital $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Shelters/Passenger $5,322 $25,500 $27,500 $27,500 $29,500 $29,500 $29,500 Amenities Capital Projects Totals $999,690 $5,092,502 $4,760,570 $4,527,529 $1,260,871 $178,500 $3,611,471

2016 Actual 2017 PROJ. 2018 PROJ. 2019 PROJ. 2020 PROJ. 2021 PROJ. 2022 PROJ.

Debt Service $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Total Revenue (+) $5,459,326 $5,578,709 $5,852,523 $6,092,487 $6,288,662 $6,489,458 $6,721,000 Operating Expenses $4,568,738 $4,974,269 $5,155,695 $5,422,159 $5,665,130 $5,812,593 $6,000,377 (less Depr) (-) Capital Revenues (+) $12,358 $3,475,212 $3,501,443 $3,161,288 $779,661 $8,158 $2,716,621

Capital Projects (-) $999,690 $5,092,502 $4,760,570 $4,527,529 $1,260,871 $178,500 $3,611,471

Debt Service (-) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Inc. to Veh. Res. (-) $498,069 $309,235 $319,618 $170,024 $221,880 $259,472 $697,630 Inc. to Operating Res.(- $7,466 $3,956 $84,335 $5,584 $5,036 $20,999 $27,140 ) Inc. to Facilities Res.(-) $5,489 $306,090 $304,666 $504,570 $404,362 $404,552 $5,468 Xfers From Veh. $0 $851,652 $1,000,906 $735,359 $148,062 $79,286 $801,765 Reserve (+) Xfers From Oper. $146,466 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Reserve (+) Xfers From $500,000 $780,479 $270,012 $640,733 $340,894 $99,214 $102,700 Fac.Reserve (+)

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 25 August 2017 Retained Earnings $38,698 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Year End General Fund $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 $639,464 Balance

Dedicated Vehicle

Repl. Fund Beg Veh Rep Fund $2,419,033 $2,917,102 $2,374,685 $1,693,397 $1,128,061 $1,201,880 $1,382,066

Vehicle Repl. Fund (+) $498,069 $309,235 $319,618 $170,024 $221,880 $259,472 $697,630

Vehicle Purchase (-) $851,652 $1,000,906 $735,359 $148,062 $79,286 $801,765 Year End Veh. Repl. $2,917,102 $2,374,685 $1,693,397 $1,128,061 $1,201,880 $1,382,066 $1,277,930 Fund Bal.

Dedicated Facilities

Repl. Fund Beg Facilities Fund $2,524,399 $2,029,888 $1,555,499 $1,590,154 $1,453,992 $1,517,460 $1,822,798 Capital Facility Fund $5,489 $306,090 $304,666 $504,570 $404,362 $404,552 $5,468 (+) Capital Purchase (-) $500,000 $780,479 $270,012 $640,733 $340,894 $99,214 $102,700 Year End Fac. Repl. $2,029,888 $1,555,499 $1,590,154 $1,453,992 $1,517,460 $1,822,798 $1,725,567 Fund Bal.

Dedicated Oper. Res.

Fund Beginning Oper $2,889,000 $2,750,000 $2,753,956 $2,838,291 $2,843,874 $2,848,910 $2,869,909 Reserve Annual Oper Reserve $7,466 $3,956 $84,335 $5,584 $5,036 $20,999 $27,140 Funding (+) Net Xfer to/from $146,466 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 General Fund (-) Year End Oper. Res. $2,750,000 $2,753,956 $2,838,291 $2,843,874 $2,848,910 $2,869,909 $2,897,049 Fund Balance

Total All Funds $8,336,454 $7,323,604 $6,761,306 $6,065,392 $6,207,714 $6,714,238 $6,540,011

On-Going Local $5,147,688 $5,180,654 $5,484,180 $5,722,859 $5,917,308 $6,118,505 $6,320,805 Revenue - Less Operating Expenses $4,568,738 $4,974,269 $5,155,695 $5,422,159 $5,665,130 $5,812,593 $6,000,377 (No Depr)

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 26 August 2017

Six-Year Budget Assumption Information

Operating:

• Projected Sales Tax Receipts are anticipated to be higher in 2018 and 2019 reflecting the reconstruction of the Walla Walla Town Center. Projected annual growth for the 2017-2022 planning period is 3.7%, which is slightly lower than the average rate for the previous twenty-four years of 4.1%.

• State operating assistance grants are projected to remain near their current levels throughout the planning period.

• Expenses are projected to increase 3.8% annually over the next six years, reflecting increased labor costs, higher employment taxes, insurance premiums and utility costs, in addition to normal industry wide inflation on essential supplies such as bus replacement parts.

Capital:

• Expansion and replacement vehicles are typically funded through federal or state capital assistance grants (typically providing at 80% of the purchase cost). Any unfunded portion is provided from Valley Transit’s Vehicle Replacement Reserves.

• Operations/Maintenance/Administration facility preservation and expansion will be funded with a combination of federal and state capital assistance grants, and funding from Valley Transit’s Building and Equipment Repair and Replacement Reserves.

• There is no provision for Vanpool expansion in this planning period. Currently there is no known demand for Vanpool services that is going unmet. Should the need for Vanpool expansion arise, it will most likely come from agricultural workers or employees working at one of the hydroelectric facilities. Valley Transit continues to monitor the situation and will address the situation should it arise.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 27 August 2017

Appendix

List

Appendix A: Requested Services & Projects

Appendix B: Organizational Chart

Appendix C: Route Map

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017−2022 28 August 2017

Appendix A

Requested Services & Projects:

The following list contains unmet needs reported to Valley Transit during the regional planning process. At this time, there is no long-term funding source identified to fund and support these service requests.

• Expansion of service hours for Saturday service. • Expansion of service to include Sundays. • Expansion of the service area to provide transportation to the neighboring rural communities of Prescott, Waitsburg, Touchet, Burbank, and Milton-Freewater. ** • Implement a downtown parking shuttle. • Renovate Crawford Park to create a transit plaza that will better support multimodal connections. • Increase frequency of the Main Line and other key routes • Add passenger waiting shelters to heavily used bus stops. • Operate a special loop to support tourism and local wineries • Operate a special bus for local residents who work at Sykes in Milton-Freewater.

** The Walla Walla Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization was awarded a Washington State Rural Mobility grant to conduct a study to identify unmet transportation needs in rural Walla Walla County. Valley Transit is one of the financial partners providing matching funds for this project. Valley Transit will monitor the results of this study for future transportation planning.

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017-2022 A-1 August 2017

Appendix B: Organizational Chart

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017-2022 B-1 August 2017

Appendix C: Route Map

Valley Transit Transit Development Plan 2017-2022 C-1 August 2017