DOCSLIB.ORG

TS-2021-03 WEGO Visitor Transportation Services (V.Pdf

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
TS-2021-03 WEGO Visitor Transportation Services (V.Pdf TS-2021-03 March 2, 2021 REPORT TO: Mayor James M. Diodati and Members of Municipal Council City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Transit Services Department SUBJECT: TS-2021-03 WEGO Visitor Transportation Services Operational Review RECOMMENDATION 1. That the WEGO Visitor Transportation Services Operational Review prepared by IBI Group dated January 12, 2021 be approved by Council; and 2. That the recommendations provided in Table 2 not requiring budgetary approval or public input at this time be endorsed by Council; and 3. That Council direct Staff to bring an extension agreement forward for Council’s approval within the terms of the agreement’s timeframes to extend the term of the existing 10-year agreement by two years. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The WEGO service has been in operation since 2012 and provides over one-million rides annually (pre-pandemic). The service is jointly operated between the City of Niagara Falls (CNF) and the Niagara Parks Commission (NPC). The systems’ operation is governed by a 10-year operating agreement that outlines the goals, responsibilities, financial arrangements and roles of the service. As an operational requirement in the terms of the existing agreement, the attached WEGO Operational Review was initiated in 2019 by the NPC and CNF. The Consultant’s final report outlines recommendations for both agencies in successfully continuing and growing the service. NPC staff have provided and their Property & Infrastructure Committee and their Commission have received the attached review and recommendations. BACKGROUND The WEGO system replaced the 26-year old People Mover service and integrated three City operated Falls Shuttle routes to provide service to the provincially-designated parks along Niagara Parkway and in the tourism and service cores/ corridors of Niagara Falls. Staff from CNF and NPC meet regularly to address needed service adjustments or operational issues to continue to improve performance and to plan for opportunities or promotions to meet our visitor’s needs. 2 TS-2021-03 March 2, 2021 Ridership has been consistently strong (see Table 1) on the system but had plateaued due to service levels being provided at capacity, traffic congestion and routing issues which were identified in the review and addressed in recommendations from the Consultant. Table 1: This technical report identifies key recommendations for both agencies to coordinate operationally and to identify projects or opportunities for each agency to enhance and improve the service. The report is divided into three main sections: The summary and key findings of the review overall in Section 2; Recommendations are included in each section and are structured as: o Section 3 provides service level and routing options to serve the community and visitors better overall; o Section 4 speaks to the need for traffic congestion mitigation and how to achieve that with enhanced WEGO service and traffic management; o Section 5 identifies needs and opportunities in any new operating agreement, operational policies and practices by providers and how to improve service consistency between CNF and NPC; 3 TS-2021-03 March 2, 2021 o Section 6 looks at fare integration, technologies and administrative process; and The next steps for consideration in delivering WEGO in the future are addressed in Section 7. As WEGO ridership and service levels recover post-pandemic in 2021 and 2022, both the NPC and CNF staff have identified low to no-cost options within the key recommendations to focus on. Some of these are as elementary as aligning operating policies (like pets or service animal criteria onboard buses) and others are more significant in joint input but not reflecting high cost (like making the WEGO website more accessible). Both agencies have agreed to focus on initiating work on recommendations as follows during recovery: Table 2: Congestion Mitigation Enhanced parking/ stopping & platform enforcement; Schedule & headway enhancement to prevent arrival buses ‘bunching’ at Tablerock. Installing low cost ‘Transit Priority Measures’ along Niagara Parkway (i.e. line painting); Improve procedures for real-time internal communication between supervisory teams and for events; System Management & Policies Update operating agreement to include policies developed to be consistent between the parties (i.e. accessibility); Enhanced customer service at Tablerock; Signage review and planning; Develop a plan to update and relaunch the WEGO website; Improve performance monitoring with existing ITS equipment onboard; Capital fleet management & replacement planning. Fares Streamline fare categories; Plan for ana fare reader system to replace the existing farebox. The review provides further route and service recommendations based on key trip generators in the future and potential changes to routing to address pinch-points in 4 TS-2021-03 March 2, 2021 corridors (i.e. pressures from development, safety issues on particular roads). The recommendations and opportunities also speak to the need for changes on NPC property needed to enhance system performance and increased ridership. These recommendations require further budget commitments from both the CNF and NPC and/or would benefit from a full public process. These recommendations are not being brought forward for endorsement at this time. Staff would undertake either or both the budget and/or public process and provide a separate report to Council on these items which would affect the City financially and or its stakeholders. Further to this review and with regard to the existing term of the agreement, actions and investments required in capital purchases of fleet and infrastructure to maintain, secure and enhance the WEGO system will need to be undertaken by CNF and NPC staff as well. Again, the plan for capital replacement or enhancement of the fleet will be brought to Council under separate report. As the current agreement term ends in 2022, staff from both agencies are recommending to their Commission and Council respectively that the parties enter into a two-year extension of the terms. This will allow the WEGO system to start to recover out of the COVID-19 impact period and would provide staff the time to plan and budget more intricate, costly and long-term work identified as needed to grow and make the system even more successful. ANALYSIS/RATIONALE Council received a presentation and staff report in January 2021 regarding the future state of transit in Niagara. The Regional Municipality of Niagara’s transit governance issue is slated to be decided by local and regional governments in early to mid-2021. Council’s intention at the time of this report is understood that CNF intends to maintain the WEGO system partnership with the NPC save and separate from any assets or operation they may contemplate uploading regionally. An extension of the existing agreement would stabilize any transition of the service to another provision model. With a desire to continue to meet the transportation needs and requirements of the public and visitors to the Niagara Parks and within the tourism core and in our service industry corridors, this comprehensive operational review provides an action plan to follow for WEGO as Council considers the future of transit overall in Niagara Falls. Staff is providing a listing of low to no-cost recommendations that can be achieved with its partner, the NPC, while the WEGO VTS system ridership recovers. FINANCIAL/STAFFING/LEGAL IMPLICATIONS Within the terms of the existing agreement, parties are required to notify each other of their intent to extend or take no action to extend/ terminate the agreement by the 9th 5 TS-2021-03 March 2, 2021 anniversary of the existing ‘in operation’ date (August 2012). Any extension must be of mutual consent by the CNF and NPC. The financial impacts of COVID-19 on our 2021 Operating Budget and revenues were presented to Council through budget deliberations. Recommendations to be undertaken in partnership with the NPC that are identified as low to no-cost within the WEGO Visitor Transportation Services Operational Review Recommendations report dated January 12, 2021 will be achieved within the budget approved. CITY’S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT Committed to employing a safe, accessible, convenient, integrated and fiscally responsible transportation system that provides realistic travel options to the auto, thereby, creating a City that is truly accessible to locals and visitors. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS WEGO Visitor Transportation Services Operational Review Recommendations Recommended by: Carla Stout, General Manager of Transit Services Respectfully submitted: Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer FINAL REPORT WEGO Visitor Transportation Services Operational Review Recommendations Prepared for Niagara Parks Commission and City of Niagara Falls by IBI Group January 12, 2021 IBI GROUP FINAL REPORT WEGO VISITOR TRANSPORTATION SERVICES OPERATIONAL REVIEW RECOMMENDATIONS Prepared for Niagara Parks Commission and City of Niagara Falls Table of Contents 1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 3 2 Results of Operational Review ................................................................. 4 2.1 Service Levels and Performance ...................................................... 4 2.2 Congestion Mitigation ....................................................................... 5 2.3 System Management and Policies .................................................... 5 2.4 Fares
Load more

Recommended publications
  • 2013 Annual Report
    THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT 2013 Niagara Parks Annual Report 2013 The Niagara Parks Commission Our Role & Mission Fireworks over Niagara Parks Niagara is a region steeped in history and blessed by geography. As steward of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) plays a key role in maintaining, protecting and showcasing the grandeur of the Falls, while contributing to the economic growth and success of Niagara and Ontario. As a self-funded agency of the provincial government, NPC is responsible for the maintenance of 1,325 hectares of parkland, stretching some 56 kilometres along the Niagara River from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. Our mission remains the same as it was when the Commission was first established in 1885: to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Falls and the Niagara River corridor for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency. On the cover Boardwalk at NPC White Water Walk attraction, Christine Hess Photography 01 Niagara Parks Annual Report 2013 The Commissioners 2013 Janice Thomson, Chair Joan Andrew, Vice Chair Appointed Chair November 16, 2011 Appointed Vice Chair December 5, 2012 Term expires November 15, 2015 Term expires May 1, 2015 Appointed Commissioner May 2, 2012 Term expires May 1, 2015 James Detenbeck, Commissioner David Eke, Commissioner Lois Anne Giles, Commissioner Barbara Greenwood, Commissioner Appointed August 1, 2012 (Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake nominee) Appointed June 20, 2012 (Regional Municipality of Term expires
    [Show full text]
  • Celebrate with NIAGARA PARKS WELCOME to Niagara Parks
    Celebrate WITH NIAGARA PARKS WELCOME TO Niagara Parks Niagara Parks is committed to preserving the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River corridor. Ontario’s only 56-kilometre outdoor adventure museum is home to natural wonder attractions, stunning golf courses and exclusive, locally sourced restaurant venues overlooking Niagara Falls. 2 3 At Niagara Parks, we’re committed to supporting the many talented growers, producers and craftspeople that make up Ontario’s strong food, beverage and agricultural sectors. All five of the full-service restaurants operating under NIAGARA PARKS Niagara Parks Culinary are Feast On certified by the Culinary Tourism Alliance. The Feast On accreditation recognizes businesses committed to sourcing and showcasing Ontario foods and alcoholic beverages within their establishments. Special Features • Complimentary falls • Covered terrace overlooking the illumination in falls located at Queen Victoria company colours Place Restaurant • Create an unforgettable • Complimentary linens are experience by including a stunning provided for private events fireworks display at your event • Include a blast of history to • WEGO bus transportation to your event. Book a fun and Niagara Parks venues is available interactive Soldier experience at a special group rate to entertain your guests • Unique, customized themed • Add a memorable Victorian menus prepared by our award-winning chefs style touch your private party with a charming • Indoor restaurant venues for performance by our receptions and seated dinners holiday carolers 4 5 AT Table Rock Centre The original Table Rock building was one of the oldest structures taken over by Niagara Parks in 1886. This venue was a starting point for the Scenic Tunnels, now known as Journey Behind the Falls.
    [Show full text]
  • Niagara Parks Annual Report 2008
    Niagara Parks Annual Report 2008 A FOUNDATION FOR GROWTH The Niagara Parks Commission: Our Role & Mission Niagara is a region steeped in history and blessed by geography. As steward of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) plays a major role in maintain- ing, protecting and showcasing the Falls’ grandeur, while contributing to the economic growth and success of Niagara. As a self-funded agency of the provincial government, NPC is responsible for the maintenance of 1,720 hectares of parkland, stretching some 56 kilometres along the Niagara River from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. Our mission remains the same as it was in 1885, to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Falls and the Niagara River corridor for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency. The Team | 2008 Jim Williams, Chairman Archie Katzman, Vice-Chairman Gary F. Burroughs, Commissioner Vincent Kerrio, Commissioner Appointed March 10, 2004 Appointed October 24, 1981 (Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake Representative) (City of Niagara Falls Representative) Term expired December 16, 2009 Term expires October 23, 2011 Appointed December 1, 2000 Appointed April 18, 2007 Term expired November 30, 2008 Term expired November 30, 2008 Douglas Martin, Commissioner Bob Saracino, Commissioner Robert Gale, Commissioner Italia Gilberti, Commissioner (Town of Fort Erie Representative) (Regional Municipality of Niagara Representative) Appointed February 27, 2006 Appointed July 24, 2006 Appointed April 18, 2007 Appointed December 1, 2000 Term expired February 26, 2009 Term expired July 23, 2010 Term expired November 30, 2008 Term expired November 30, 2008 David Stewart Howes, Commissioner Edward Werner, Commissioner Fredrick Louws, Commissioner David J.
    [Show full text]
  • THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT • APRIL 1, 2015 to MARCH 31, 2016 Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016
    THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT • APRIL 1, 2015 TO MARCH 31, 2016 Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 2 Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION Table of Contents Our Role and Mission 04 The Commissioners 05 A Message From The Chair 06-13 A Year In Review 14-33 Economic Performance 34-36 Business Climate 37 NPC Attendance 38 NPC Commissioner Remuneration 39 Financial Statements 40-63 Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 3 Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 Our Role & Mission THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION Our Role and Mission Niagara is a region steeped in history and blessed by Our mission remains the same as it was when the geography. As steward of one of the world’s greatest Commission was first established in 1885: natural wonders, The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) plays a key role in maintaining, protecting and showcasing To preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the grandeur of the Falls, while contributing to the the Falls and the Niagara River corridor for the economic growth and success of Niagara and Ontario. enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency. As a self-funded agency of the provincial government, NPC is responsible for the maintenance of 1,325 hectares of parkland, stretching some 56 kilometres along the Niagara River from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. 4 Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 The Commissioners Niagara Parks Annual Report / April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION The Commissioners Janice Thomson, Joan Andrew, Pat Darte, Commissioner James Detenbeck, Chair Vice Chair (Niagara-on-the-Lake nominee) Commissioner Appointed Nov.
    [Show full text]
  • Niagara Parks Commission Annual Report 2018-19
    Annual Report 2018/2019 Table of Contents Our Role & Mandate 3 The Commissioners 4 A Message from the Chair 6 10-year Strategic Plan 8 2018/2019 Year in Review 9 Economic Performance – General Overview 15 Economic Performance: Outcome-Based Performance Measures 18 Economic Performance – Risk Analysis 21 Business Climate 23 Niagara Parks Attendance 25 Commissioner Remuneration 26 Management Report 27 Independent Auditor’s Report 28 Statement of Financial Position 30 Statement of Operations 31 Statement of Accumulated Surplus 32 Statement of Changes in Net Debt 33 Statement of Cash Flows 34 Notes to the Financial Statements 35 Schedule of Tangible Capital Assets 46 Schedule of Expenses by Object 47 April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019 Niagara Parks Annual Report 2 The Niagara Parks Commission Our Role & Mandate Niagara is a region steeped in history and blessed by geography. As steward of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, The Niagara Parks Commission plays a key role in maintaining, protecting and showcasing the grandeur of the Falls, as well as the whole Niagara River corridor, while contributing to the economic growth and success of the Niagara region and Ontario. As a self-funded agency of the provincial government, Niagara Parks is responsible for the maintenance of 1,325 hectares of parkland, stretching some 56 kilometres along the Niagara River corridor from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. Our mandate remains the same as it was when the Commission was first established in 1885: to preserve and promote the natural beauty and cultural heritage along the Niagara River corridor for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.
    [Show full text]
  • Niagara's Spanish Aero Car 19/12/2005 06:00 PM
    ELEVATOR WORLD January 1998 -- Niagara's Spanish Aero Car 19/12/2005 06:00 PM Copyright© 1997 Elevator World, Inc. – Posted 12/23/97 These stories have been reformatted to appear online. Subscribe now for complete version. Click below to view additional pics . Pic 1 Pic 2 Pic 3 Pic 4 Pic 5 Pic 6 Pic 7 Pic 8 Pic 9 Pic 10 Pic 11 Pic 12 Pic 13 Pic 14 Pic 15 Pic 16 Pic 17 Nestled among the deep, majestic gorges and the beautiful greenery - three miles from the base of the misty Niagara Falls - runs a tramway car that has held a sense of mystique for over 80 years. Fourteen million visitors embark upon the Niagara Falls, Canada area each year, which spans some 35 miles. The Niagara River area alone encompasses 3,735 acres from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. In modern times, visitors have been able to view the Falls from both sides of the border atop towers, such as the Skylon Tower and Minolta Tower, etc. on the Canadian side and Prospect Point Observation Tower on the American side (see ELEVATOR WORLD's 1969 Annual Study, "Towers") to which the equipment of our industry facilitates access. Those wishing to view the nearby Whirlpool from other than a people mover or electric train (later abandoned) can ride another form of short-range transportation - the Spanish Aero Car. This cableway has served as one of Niagara's favorite attractions for many years. http://www.elevator-world.com/magazine/archive01/9801-004.html-ssi Página 1 de 6 ELEVATOR WORLD January 1998 -- Niagara's Spanish Aero Car 19/12/2005 06:00 PM Credit is due to Chief Inspector Alf Moser, who brought this story to our attention and provided us with photos of the Aero Car, as it underwent inspection.
    [Show full text]
  • Ready. Set. Go
    Ready. Set. Go. NIAGARA FALLS White Water Walk Legends on the Niagara Golf Elements on the Falls The Authentic Niagara Experience At Niagara Parks, authentic adventures are what we do. Experience our owned and operated spectacular attractions, locally-sourced cuisine, immersive heritage sites, award-winning golf courses, and geographically unique natural sites all along the picturesque Niagara Parkway. Niagara Parks Travel Trade Division can help plan your ultimate Niagara Falls adventure from start to finish. Start planning your adventure today at niagaraparkstraveltrade.com The Niagara Parks Commission Tour & Travel Trade Division P (905) 371-0254 ext. 2 TF 1-877-642-7275 ext. 2 F (905) 356-8448 E [email protected] Niagara Falls Tourism There is something for everyone in Niagara Falls. Sure, one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders put us on the map. And that’s what people plan on seeing. But what visitors discover is so much more. Easy, Customized So come experience the majesty of the Falls. Hear the wall of roaring water that was perfectly carved during Planning the ice age more than 12,000 years ago. Feel its spray as it rushes by. Then be amazed knowing that this is just the There are so many things to see and start to your trip of a lifetime. Your adventure has just do in Niagara Falls and you don’t want begun. your clients to miss any of it. Ask the team of professionals at Niagara Falls World-class hotels. An award-winning wine region. Tourism to help you create a memorable Excellent shopping.
    [Show full text]
  • Tour Study Guide 2020 - 2021 TABLE of CONTENTS
    Tour Study Guide 2020 - 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction, Mission & Vision 3 Facts & Figures 5 Challenging the Falls 10 Hydroelectric Power Stations in Niagara Parks 12 Nature Areas 14 Heritage Sites 16 Attractions 19 Gardens 23 Transportation 26 Dining in Niagara Parks 28 Niagara Parks Golf 30 Niagara Parks Entertainment 31 Accessibility at Niagara Parks 32 Tour Guides, Tour Vehicles & Group Tours 33 Famous Visitors, VIPs & Dignitaries 34 Emergency Services 35 TOUR STUDY GUIDE INTRODUCTION MISSION & VISION Niagara Parks is a self-financed agency of the Ontario 1,325 hectares (3,274 acres) of parkland. Niagara Parks Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture operates like a city within a city with its own police Industries founded in 1885. Stretching 56 kilometres services, road maintenance, waste collection, public along the Niagara River, from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, transportation system and other services. During the Niagara Parks features natural attractions, Feast height of the tourist season, Niagara Parks employs On certified restaurants, pristine championship golf over 1,700 staff, including 300 full-time and 1,400 courses, restored heritage sites and world-renowned seasonal employees. gardens and green spaces. Niagara Parks is governed by a provincially appointed Originally called the Commissioners for the Queen board of 12 commissioners that meet on a bi-monthly Victoria Niagara Falls Park, Niagara Parks initially only basis. Four of these appointees are nominated from the managed land next to the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. local municipalities of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Fort Erie, It was renamed the Niagara Parks Commission in 1927 Niagara Falls and the Region of Niagara.
    [Show full text]