MODDC / Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy A strategy to improve coordination among transportation stakeholders and human service providers within the Mid- Missouri region

August 2014

Prepared for:

Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council, PO Box 687, Jefferson City, MO 65102

Prepared by:

Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission, PO Box 140, Ashland, MO 65010

Table of Contents Executive Summary ...... i Section 1: Introduction ...... 1 Planning Area...... 1 Planning Process ...... 2 Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council Grant 2013 ...... 2 Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordination Council ...... 3 Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plan (PT-HST) ...... 3 Section 2: Regional Transportation Needs ...... 5 Analysis of Special Needs Population ...... 5 General Population Characteristics ...... 5 Poverty ...... 7 Elderly ...... 9 Disabled ...... 10 Mid-MO RPC PT-HST Plan 2013 – Assessment of Transportation Needs ...... 11 Survey of Transportation Providers ...... 11 Survey of Transportation Users ...... 12 CAMPO and CATSO PT-HST Plans 2012 to 2013 – Assessment of Transportation Needs ...... 13 CAMPO PT-HST 2012 Survey/Meeting Results ...... 13 CATSO PT-HST 2013 Survey/Meeting Results...... 14 The 2005 “Boone County Coordinated Transportation, Final Report” ...... 14 MMTCC – SWOC Analysis ...... 16 Section 3: Regional Transportation Capabilities and Opportunities...... 17 Service Areas and Access ...... 17 Technology ...... 18 Education ...... 19 Section 4: Regional Stakeholders ...... 20 Transportation Providers ...... 22 COMO Connect (formerly Columbia Transit) ...... 22 JEFFTRAN ...... 24 OATS ...... 25

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy SERVE/CALTRAN ...... 27 Human Service Providers ...... 28 Alternative Community Training, Inc. (ACT) ...... 28 Boone County Council on Aging, Inc. (BCCA) ...... 28 Boone County Family Resources (BCFR) ...... 29 Burrell Behavioral Health ...... 29 Central Missouri Area Agency on Aging (CMAAA) ...... 29 Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA) ...... 30 Central Missouri Subcontracting Enterprises (CMSE) ...... 30 Columbia Housing Authority (CHA) ...... 31 Job Point (formally Advent Enterprises) ...... 31 New Horizons ...... 31 Phoenix Programs ...... 31 Rainbow House ...... 32 Services for Independent Living (SIL) ...... 32 Vocational Rehabilitation ...... 32 Voluntary Action Center (VAC) ...... 33 Sheltered Workshops ...... 33 Residential Care Facilities ...... 34 Education ...... 35 Other Stakeholders ...... 35 Section 5: Regional Goals, Strategies, and Implementation ...... 36 Plan for Implementation ...... 37 Section 6: Planning Partners and Coordination Resources ...... 38 Planning Partners ...... 38 Coordination Resources – Regional, State, and National ...... 38 Regional…...... 38 State …...... 38 National…...... 39 United Way 211…...... 40 Section 7: Funding ...... 41 Urbanized Area Formula Grants ...... 43 Formula Grants for the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities ...... 43

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy Formula Grants for Other Than Urbanized Areas (Rural Formula) ...... 43 Section 8: Conclusion ...... 45

Appendix A MODDC Call For Investments Application

Appendix B MMTCC Meeting Minutes

Appendix C Missouri Senior Report 2013

Appendix D OATS, Inc. Sample Schedule

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy Executive Summary

The MODDC / Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy was developed by the Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission (Mid-MO RPC) as part of a 2013-2014 planning grant provided by the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC). The overall goal of the planning grant is for Missourians to have:

“A greater ability to independently participate in all aspects of life through increased access to transportation services for people with disabilities, older adults, children and youth, veterans and individuals with lower incomes. ”

The Implementation Strategy resulted from a number of different activities undertaken to meet the goals of the planning grant including stakeholder interviews, a SWOC analysis, and the creation of a forum for regional coordination - the Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordination Council (MMTCC). A series of meetings with transportation and human service providers, previous user surveys, and the ongoing efforts of the MMTCC were all essential elements in creating the strategy.

If these themes are addressed and improved upon through thoughtful planning and regional coordination, it is hoped that the MODDC goal of “improving life through access to transportation” can be achieved.

The Implementation Strategy highlights a need for coordination in the region. The hope of the participating stakeholders is that coordination will create a more efficient and accessible transportation network in the Mid-MO RPC region. This planning process has identified several major themes that create a gap in efficiency and access to transportation services in the region:

• Coordination – provider partnerships, regional support and cooperation, service overlap • Technology Upgrades – improved tracking of time and resources • Education – available services, funding, resources, access • Demand – hours of operation, route expansion, routing efficiency • Funding – allocations, new funding sources, state/federal interagency planning

If these themes are addressed and improved upon through thoughtful planning and regional coordination, it is hoped that the MODDC goal of “improving life through access to transportation” can be achieved.

The Mid-MO RPC region is home to more than 33 transportation providers and human service providers. Four of these providers are considered public transit, meaning they provide services to both the general public and special needs populations. These providers assist a wide range of individuals needing both transportation and public assistance. There are three key demographics that are most impacted by access to transportation services; low-income, elderly, and disabled. Without transportation services these populations may have limited access to many basic amenities and services. With a 13% increase in the population living below the poverty line and a 16 % increase in the elderly population, demand for transportation services will likely increase in the future. There are also an estimated 41,646 residents with disabilities in the Mid-MO RPC region who may need special accommodations to access transportation services. Transportation access for these key demographics is limited by several factors such as those mentioned in the themes above. Individuals in rural areas may only have access to transportation one to three

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy i times a month and only for limited periods of time. This significantly impacts quality of life for these individuals and creates challenges for individuals that may not have other resources such as family and friends to supplement their transportation needs. In addition to these limitations, urban transit users have limited access to transportation due to the restrictions in hours of operation. Current transit services are only available during peak hours, which does not accommodate the needs of individuals working non-traditional hours beyond 8 to 5. Overlap in services between providers has also been cited as a concern. Multiple agencies are providing services along similar routes at similar times. These challenges have been well documented in several planning documents and coordinated planning efforts in the region.

This Implementation Strategy seeks to build upon those previous planning efforts. During the update of the Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plan (PT-HST) in 2013, Mid-MO RPC facilitated several public meetings and surveyed several transportation and human service providers; goals and strategies were created with the intent of improving accessibility and service. Both the Capitol Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) in Jefferson City and the Columbia Area Transportation Study Organization (CATSO) in Columbia maintain their own Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plans. These plans were also used to acquire data for the Implementation Strategy. All PT-HST plans are updated every five years.

Elements from the 2013 PT-HST have been incorporated into this planning process and the goals and strategies created for this Implementation Strategy were prioritized by the same regional transportation stakeholders and are similar to the PT-HST. The result is an Implementation Strategy that identifies existing services, gaps in service, needs, and a plan to address these issues. Section 5 lays out specific projects and activities that could be implemented to meet the goals and strategies developed through the planning process. If funding is available in the future, this list of implementation activities could be used as the basis for developing a project.

The goals and strategies are as follows:

Goal 1: Increase efficiency through advocacy, coordination, and education Strategies 1. Educate both the public and service agencies about types of service available. This could be done through the creation of a coordination staff position, directory, or website. 2. Develop a regional plan for coordination between social service agencies and transportation providers.

Goal 2: Continue maintenance and/or expansion of accessibility Strategies 1. Secure funding necessary to sustain current system capabilities, including sufficient levels of qualified staff and equipment. This would include increase of staff capacity, training, equipment upgrades and expansion of hours of operation. 2. Promote and secure funding for expansion of services and programs. 3. Create a framework to prepare for infrastructure pressure stemming from increase in aging population

The 2014 MODDC / Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy has been created to assist in future coordination efforts which may be funded through the MODDC or other agencies. It will be updated on an as needed basis.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Tranpsortation Coordination Implementation Strategy ii Section 1: Introduction

Planning Area

The Mid-MO RPC region encompasses six counties and forty-four incorporated communities. Within the region, there are more than 40 for-profit or nonprofit transportation providers. These providers include taxi services, public transit, human service agencies, and other state and federal assistance agencies. With a population of 326,543, the Mid-MO RPC region spans both rural and urban areas.

The region also serves as a crossroads for several of the state’s major highway systems. Running east-west across the state is Interstate 70. This system runs through Callaway, Boone, and Cooper Counties and connects the metropolitan areas of Kansas City and St. Louis. The City of Columbia plays an important role as the largest city between these metropolitan areas and offers dining, medical care, educational centers, lodging, and recreational activities.

U. S. Highway 63, which runs north-south through Boone, Callaway, and Cole Counties, intersects Interstate 70 in Columbia and connects Columbia with another large urban area, Jefferson City. Jefferson City, the state capital, also boasts a wide variety of services such as medical care, educational centers, lodging, and recreational opportunities.

Because Columbia and Jefferson City are the largest metropolitan areas between Kansas City and St. Louis, many mid-Missouri residents choose these cities for medical care, shopping, employment, and education. While all of the Mid-MO RPC counties have medical clinics and/or hospitals, specialty care such as dialysis, treatment for cancer, physical therapy, and trauma care are only found in Columbia and Jefferson City. These specialty medical services, along with education and employment, make access to reliable transportation a necessity in the region.

Coordinated Transportation planning in the region is essential to maintaining funding and access to transportation services in the region. The Mid-MO RPC works closely with the other two transportation planning groups in the area. The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) and the Columbia Area Transportation Strategy Organization (CATSO) provide transportation planning service to the Jefferson City and Columbia metropolitan areas.

Figure 1.1 illustrates the Mid-MO RPC region and highlights the two Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) in the area.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 1 Figure 1.1

Planning Process

Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council Grant 2013

In the spring of 2013 the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC) sought to partner with MoDOT, Regional Planning Commissions, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, Public/Private Transportation Providers and Human Service Agencies to address issues surrounding access to transportation services. Planning grants were awarded to three regional planning commissions in Missouri: Boonslick Regional Planning Commission, Meramec Regional Planning Commission and Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission.

The goal was to develop and sustain “local transportation solutions that are accessible, affordable and available to people with developmental disabilities.” The work was to be undertaken in two phases: the Planning phase (Phase I) and the Implementation phase (Phase II). This Implementation Strategy is the result of the Phase I planning undertaken with input and cooperation from local area transportation providers and human service agencies.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 2 The Implementation phase (Phase II) is to be funded through a separate application to the MODDC in fall 2014. As stated in the 2013 MODDC Call for Investments (CFI), the MODDC will provide up to $20,000 in matching funds to create and implementation project. These funds would be the 20% match needed for the DOT/Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Federal Transportation Grant funding administered by MoDOT and require a separate application process through MoDOT. The Phase II funding will last an additional 2 years and be contingent upon the approval of this Implementation Strategy and the ability to access Federal Transportation Grant funds.

Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordination Council

In June of 2013, Mid-Missouri transportation providers and human service agencies came together to form the Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordinating Council (MMTCC). Funding to support the MMTCC came from the 2013-2014 MODDC planning grant. The mission of the newly founded council is to:

“Sustain a regional partnership for better community access through transportation coordination and mobility management”

The MMTCC is the driving force behind the goals and strategies identified within this Implementation Strategy. With the assistance of staff from the University of Missouri Hospital Trauma Center, Mid-MO RPC and MoDOT, the group has been successful in bringing together several transportation providers and human service agencies to discuss common challenges, goals, and opportunities. Meetings during the summer of 2013 started the discussion of such challenges as funding, coordination, and access to service.

It is the goal of Mid-MO RPC and members of the MMTCC to continue regular meetings to facilitate coordination and networking opportunities. Although Phase I funding from the 2013- 2014 MODDC planning grant will expended by July 2014, support for the MMTCC will be part of the 2014-2015 Mid-MO RPC Transportation Work Program. This will allow Mid-MO RPC staff to continue facilitating and documenting meetings, maintain the MMTCC website and social media profiles, and maintain relationships with regional stakeholders. As of July 2014, the MMTCC has met 10 times. Meeting minutes can be found in Appendix B of this plan.

Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plan (PT-HST)

The 2013 Mid-MO RPC PT-HST is a required planning tool used by both transportation providers and human service providers in the Mid-MO RPC area. The plan provides an analysis of transportation needs, existing capabilities, and future goals. Both Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) in the region also maintain PT-HST plans. These plans were integral to the development of this Implementation Strategy.

In August of 2005, Congress passed the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient, Transportation, Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), which reauthorized the surface transportation act. As part of this reauthorization, grantees under the New Freedom Initiative (5317), Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC 5316), and Elderly and Disabled Transportation Program (5310)

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 3 must be part of a “…locally developed coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan.” This plan must be ‘‘…developed through a process that includes representatives of public, private, and nonprofit transportation and human services providers and participation by the public. ’’

On July 6, 2012, President Obama signed into law P. L. 112-141, the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). Funding surface transportation programs at over $105 billion for fiscal years (FY) 2013 and 2014, MAP-21 was the first long-term highway authorization enacted since 2005.

Although MAP-21 was passed in 2012, there is currently limited guidance from the Federal Highway Administration regarding activities eligible for funding. More information on MAP-21 funding and guidance can be found in Section 7.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 4 Section 2: Regional Transportation Needs

To understand the needs of the Mid-MO RPC area it is important to understand the demographic makeup of the region and the stated needs of the people who use or provide transportation services in the area. This section provides an analysis of special needs populations and reviews public and provider input from the Coordinated Public Transit-Human Service Transportation (PT-HST) Plans of CAMP, CATSO, and Mid-MO RPC as well as an overview of the Boone County Coordinated Transportation, Final Report. This section also includes a SWOC analysis that was completed by the Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordination Council (MMTCC).

Analysis of Special Needs Population

The PT-HST Plans maintained by Mid-MO RPC, CAMPO, and CATSO are all designed to address the transportation needs of elderly, low-income, and disabled residents in each respective region. While the general public also uses public transportation, these key demographics are most impacted by access to transportation services. Without transportation services, these groups may have limited access to many basic amenities and services. This section includes graphic representations and analysis of low-income, elderly, and disabled populations in the Mid-MO RPC region. These graphics have been taken from the 2013 Mid-MO RPC Public Transit-Human Service Transportation Plan.

Figures 2.1-2.7 display concentrations of populations requiring special consideration. The data was derived from the 2000 and 2010 U.S. Census and is displayed at the block group level. Disability and income data was not collected in the 2010 US Census, so American Community Survey (ACS) data was used for areas where it is available.

American Community Survey 1-, 3-, and 5-year estimates are period estimates, which means they represent the characteristics of the population and housing over a specific data collection period. Data sets are combined to produce 12 months, 36 months or 60 months of data (referred to as 1- year, 3-year and 5-year data.) The population of a city or county determines whether the ACS will collect data for a 1-, 3-, or 5-year estimate. Most of the Mid-MO RPC region falls into the 5-year estimate category. For consistency, the 2007-2011 ACS was used to illustrate and analyze the demographics in this section.

General Population Characteristics

The Mid-MO RPC region encompasses six counties with an overall population of 326,543. The county populations are as follows: Boone 162,699; Callaway 44,334; Cole 76,158; Cooper 17,601; Howard 10,144; and Moniteau 15,607.

High population concentrations can be seen in the two urban centers in the region, Columbia and Jefferson City. The City of Columbia has 108,500 residents, more than twice the number of Jefferson City which has 43,057. Other areas in the region such as Boonville, California, Centralia, Fulton, and Tipton have moderate concentrations of population. Figure 2.1 depicts population per square mile for the Mid-MO RPC region.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 5 The region increased in population by 12% between 2000 and 2010. Howard County, which decreased in population by 1%, was the only county to lose population between the 2000 and 2010. Figure 2.2 depicts population change by block group across the region.

Figure 2.1

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 6 Figure 2.2

Poverty

Low-income is determined by the federal poverty guidelines, which are generated annually based on family size and composition. The numbers and percentages displayed below represent individuals living below 185% of the poverty line. Low-income individuals and families may be more likely to seek public transportation or other transportation alternatives to automobiles. Portions of Columbia, Jefferson City, and Fulton have block groups with significantly higher numbers of persons living below the poverty line. Callaway County, Cooper County, and Howard County have large areas of moderate poverty in the mostly rural areas of their counties. Figure 2.3 depicts the 2000 US Census data for percent of individuals living below the poverty line.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 7 Figure 2.3

Because the 2010 US Census did not collect income data, the American Community Survey (ACS) must be used to analyze this information. According to the 2007-2011 ACS, the Mid-MO RPC Region has over 46,000 low-income residents (14% of the area population.) This is a 13% increase from the 2002-2007 ACS. The state and national poverty rates are slightly higher at 14.3%. When looking at each county individually, it is immediately apparent that the Boone County poverty rate increases the region’s average. Boone County has an estimated poverty rate of 18%. All other counties are at or below 13%, with Callaway and Cole Counties being the lowest at 10%.

There are many factors contributing to these rates and changes. Current national economic trends are showing a decrease in the middle class and an increase in the separation between lower and higher income families and individuals. Since the recession of 2008 and 2009, employment, wages, and poverty have been national topics for concern. According to the 2007-2011 ACS, about 15.9 percent of the U.S. population had income below the poverty level in 2011, an increase from 15.3 percent in 2010. The number of people in poverty increased from 46.2 million to 48.5 million during the same time period. This was the fourth consecutive increase in the poverty rate, but the percentage point increase between 2010 and 2011 was smaller than the change between 2008 and 2009 and the one between 2009 and 2010.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 8 Elderly

In 2010, according the US Census Bureau, the Mid-MO RPC region was home to 36,321 seniors over 65 years of age. This constituted a 16% increase in that demographic compared to the 2000 US Census. This group now represents 11% of the total population in the six county region, which is below the Missouri total of 14%. Both the regional and state percentages of this demographic increased by .5% since 2000. Howard County (15.9%) and Cooper County (15.4%) are above the state average while Boone County (9.3%), Moniteau County (13.8%), Callaway County (12.3%), and Cole County (12.2%) are below it. Figure 2.4 shows the percentage of seniors in Mid-Missouri.

The elderly population is expected to rise as the baby boomer generation retires. The Missouri Adult Day Care Association projects that the number of seniors will increase by almost 50 percent by 2020. Therefore, meeting transportation needs for the elderly will become even more important. According to data from the US census, approximately 76.7 percent of Missouri seniors held a Missouri driver’s license in the year 2000. According to the University of Missouri Office of Social and Economic Data Analysis (OSEDA), 88.6% of seniors held a driver’s license in 2011. Half of the counties in the region were above this figure: Boone 93.6%, Callaway 90.8%, Cole 93.4%, Cooper 86.4%, Howard 85.7%, and Moniteau 88.3%. The total number of seniors on the road is expected to grow significantly as the senior population itself grows.

The OSEDA Senior Report 2013 provides extensive data on seniors by county. This data for the counties of the Mid-MO RPC region is found in Appendix C.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 9 Figure 2.4

Disabled

In 2000, the US Census reported an estimated 41,646 residents with disabilities in the Mid-MO RPC region. Current disability figures are difficult to find and are inconsistent. The 2007-2011 ACS did not collect data on disability, nor did the 2010 US Census. The 2000 Census collected information on sensory, physical, mental, self-care, go-outside-home and employment disabilities. In raw numbers, portions of Columbia and western Jefferson City have the highest concentrations of disabled persons in the region. The southern part of California also has a higher concentration of disabled individuals. The highest percentages of disabled individuals by block group are located in Jefferson City, central Columbia, and eastern Callaway County. Figure 2.5 shows the percent of disabled individuals by block group in the Mid-MO RPC region.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 10 Figure 2.5

Mid-MO RPC PT-HST Plan 2013 – Assessment of Transportation Needs

In January 2013, Mid-MO RPC staff developed separate survey instruments for both transportation providers and users to assess current transportation behaviors, gaps in services, and present/future needs. This information is important in assessing local need and has provided the basis for the development of the 2013 PT-HST and the 2014 MODDC / Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy.

Survey of Transportation Providers

Surveys were distributed to all participant providers in the 2008 PT-HST Plan as well as to other agencies, nonprofits, and for-profit businesses throughout the region who had not participated in the initial planning process. The survey results indicated that financial constraints, coordination with other agencies, accessibility, and hours of operation were the top challenges facing transportation providers in the region.

The survey found that most providers operate Monday through Friday with common hours of operation beginning around 8:00 a. m. and usually ending around 5:00 p. m. Some providers offer longer hours of operation, but this is not very representative of the region. Providers admitted that, in order to minimize costs, hours of operation and destinations are often contingent upon demand. Many providers agreed that

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 11 with increased funding and other resources, they would be able to expand weekday hours of operation, provide services on the weekend, and offer a wider variety of destinations.

The survey also indicated a pattern of overlapping services among providers in some portions of the region, while other areas are underserved. Transportation providers admitted that they are often unable to coordinate services with other agencies due to a lack of both resources and a comprehensive collection of providers and hours of operation.

All nonprofit and public transportation providers responded that financial constraints were the biggest hurdle to providing consistent and efficient service. Many providers are dependent on state and federal grant programs that are being drastically reduced at the federal level. This reduction in state and federal funds results in services being modified or cut so that the provider can remain operational.

Survey of Transportation Users

Transportation users seemed to agree with much of what transportation providers indicated. Namely, they felt that while there are a wide variety of transportation providers in the region, these services either are not offered during periods in which they are needed, or they simply do not reach them at all. In fact, in many parts of the region, especially in the rural areas, users indicated it is much more convenient to ask a friend or neighbor to drive them to their particular destination than to coordinate pick-up with a transportation provider. Others suggested that they are not always aware of services available to them, and therefore do not use them.

Approximately 120 user surveys were distributed with a return of 52 surveys (43%). More than 88% of those surveyed were over the age of 65. The surveys indicated that 90% had a valid driver’s license; 10% said they were unable to drive a vehicle. When asked what modes of transportation were used, two primary modes emerged: 80% drive themselves while 20% rely on friends/family vehicles or public transportation. Other transportation modes, such as walking, taxi, and personal vehicle, were used minimally.

When asked specific reasons for not using transit services, most said they either lived too far to get service, didn’t qualify, or the hours of operation did not fit their schedule. Those that do use public transportation stated that it was for medical, shopping or nutritional needs.

User survey participants strongly indicated that regional service providers could better serve users with the extension of service hours that include nights, weekends, and greater flexibility in scheduling.

The Mid-MO RPC surveys were not distributed widely within the CAMPO and CATSO service areas and therefore produced results from mostly rural residents. Both CAMPO and CATSO conducted their own surveys in 2012; their results are included in their PT-HST Plans and are summarized in the following sections.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 12 CAMPO and CATSO PT-HST Plans 2012 to 2013 – Assessment of Transportation Needs

The MPO areas of CAMPO and CATSO also developed survey instruments to assess providers and users during the development of their PT-HST plans. Both MPOs used these surveys and additional public meetings and comments to identify four major themes that create gaps in service and/or access:

Coordination

Both MPOs documented that human service agencies would like to see better coordination between themselves and public transit systems. Coordination between employers and service providers was also desired.

Demand

Public transit users in both Columbia and Jefferson City expressed the need for better coordination to facilitate expansion of service during none traditional working hours such as evenings and weekends.

Funding

In Columbia, human service agencies requested additional coordination with Columbia Transit and Paratransit to fund/expand free and reduced cost fares. Funding is an ongoing concern for capital and operation costs for the agencies providing public transportation as a primary activity (Columbia Transit and OATS) or as one of many primary activities (SIL).

In Jefferson City, human service agencies stated additional funding is needed for expanding service operations. Agencies that serve people with disabilities may have difficulty with insurance coverage due to high premiums. Insurance companies and funding resources restrict usage when the contract is tied to a program instead of a need. This creates a system in which multiple agencies are providing transportation for the same purposes and to the same locations but only for their specific client base.

Coverage

Both MPOs documented need for extended hours of transportation services including late nights and weekends as well as expansion of routes outside of the city limits. Access to employment, medical care, shopping or recreation needs were cited as being the key reasons for expanding hours and the geographic service area.

CAMPO PT-HST 2012 Survey/Meeting Results

CAMPO staff surveyed several transportation providers and human service providers in the Jefferson City area, as well as those located in nearby communities, to identify unmet transportation needs, gaps, and overlaps in service. In addition to surveys, providers were invited to attend a coordination meeting “to meet each other and become familiar with what a coordinated plan is, elaborate their needs, and develop

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 13 strategies to exceed those needs.” Providers shared information about client and agency. Through the use of surveys and meetings the following “Transportation Needs/Gaps in Service” were identified:

• Additional funds for capital investment and transportation service operation • Coordinated programs of transportation providers, employers, and human service agencies • Transportation service options in the evening and on the weekend for work, personal, recreational, and program related transportation • Public transportation coverage outside City of Jefferson limits. • Agencies may be operating multiple vehicles for similar purposes and overlapping areas

CATSO PT-HST 2013 Survey/Meeting Results

CATSO staff also surveyed several transportation and human service providers in addition to transit riders. Similar to the CAMPO and Mid-MO RPC process, providers and transit users were asked to share their view concerning unmet transportation needs. Though public meetings, phone surveys, and other correspondence, providers and transit users provided comments and input that formed the basis for the following list of “Unmet Transportation Needs and Services”:

• Expanded transportation coverage outside the City of Columbia Boundary • Expanded public transit routes within the City of Columbia Boundary • Expanded service days and times • Additional funding for social service agencies’ clients to ride public transportation at a free or reduced cost • Additional funds for capital investment and transportation service operation • Coordinated programs of transportation providers, employers, and human service agencies

The 2005 “Boone County Coordinated Transportation, Final Report”

In 2005 the Boone County Community Partnership hired a consulting firm to conduct a study to document the existing transportation resources and transportation needs in Boone County. The “Boone County Coordinated Transportation, Final Report” documented the existing condition of transportation services, coordination, and barriers to access. It was hoped, as stated in the report, that this would form the basis for a coordination plan for Boone County. Similar to the PT-HST Plans, this report provided an assessment of transportation needs, opportunities to improve access, and potential sources of coordination.

Differing from the PT-HST plans, the “Report” paid great attention to the existing coordination and planning framework and highlighted gaps in this framework. Special attention was also given to the need for formalized partnerships and stakeholder responsibilities concerning coordination and possible consolidation of resources. The “Report” has been made available on the MMTCC website at www.midmotcc.org

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 14

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 15 MMTCC – SWOC Analysis

In addition to user and provider surveys, an analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Challenges (SWOC) was conducted by the MMTCC to determine factors that directly affect transportation coordination. The SWOC was the first step towards creating an Implementation Strategy to assist the council with encouraging regional transportation coordination. The results of the SWOC analysis are as follows:

Strengths - There are three transportation planning agencies with the region used to determine - There are a large number of transportation providers within the region what provider and - Public transportation is available within both major urban areas agencies do best in the Mid-MO RPC region Weaknesses - “Silo” mentality among agencies – focus on your agencies needs and challenges anything that the region struggles with - Accessibility to transportation service is greatly limited by geography or lacks - No central source of educational materials on available services - Limited hours of operation (days and hours) - Education and knowledge base of the general public, providers, agencies, and elected officials as to what services are available, how they are funded, and community impact Opportunities - Get local elected officials and city staff involved in issue regarding coordination emerging scenarios - Expand coordination activities beyond the Mid-MO RPC Region whereby the region - Partnerships between similar agencies and/or religious institutions can grow and succeed with a new - Expand services to assist community events or existing project - Marketing of available services via tv, radio, and social media or idea.

Challenges - Decreased federal and state funding challenges facing - Lack of participation in planning efforts the region that are - Growth of senior and low-income population important to the - The general public does not understand how transit services are funded success of coordination and - The general public, specifically rural residents, have limited knowledge of access available services - Opposition to transit funding from special interest groups

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 16 Section 3: Regional Transportation Capabilities and Opportunities

Transportation Providers and Human Service providers in the Mid-MO Region have wide range of capabilities. Services that are provided are dependent on funding sources for each specific agency. Human Service providers receive funding from the Missouri State Departments of Mental Health, Health and Senior Services, and Social Services. Public Transit providers may access a combination of funds from the afore mentioned agencies and the Missouri Department of Transportation or Federal Transit Administration (FTA). These state and federal agencies have specific requirements on how funding can be used. These requirements result in a wide range of capabilities by transportation providers and human service providers. Through the development of this Implementation Strategy three thematic questions developed:

• Service Areas and Access o What are the service areas and what type of access do riders have? . What are the geographic restrictions and overlaps? • Technology o What types of technology are being used? . How are services tracked? . How does technology play a role in access? • Education o What types of educational tools are available? . How does the public know how to access transportation? . How do service providers know what is available?

Service Areas and Access

Most of the transportation and human service providers are located in Columbia and Jefferson City. This has generally resulted in better access for people in these cities to goods, services, healthcare, education, and recreation. The public transit providers in Columbia and Jefferson City are accessible to both the general public and those with special needs. Both JeffTran in Jefferson City and CoMOConnect in Columbia provide paratransit services.

Rural areas have limited access to public transportation. While OATS serves all counties in the Mid-MO RPC area, times and dates are very restrictive. Service by OATS from surrounding counties to Columbia or Jefferson City may only be once or twice in a month and by appointment only. Likewise, CALTRAN in Fulton provides service for Fulton and Callaway County residents, but it is restricted to the Fulton City limits or if service is needed to Columbia or Jefferson City appointments must be made. Both OATS and CALTRAN are able to provide service to the general public due to the public transit funding they receive as part of their operating budget.

Human service providers are able to provide service across the entire Mid-MO RPC region, but it is only available to special needs populations and most of the fares are funded through vouchers provided by state. It is important to note that overlap in service between providers is quite common. While these overlaps exist for varying reasons, this may be an opportunity for better coordination within the region.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 17 Below, Figure 3.1 provides a depiction of service overlaps within the Mid-MO Region. The providers shown consist of all public transit providers and a few of the most prevalent human service providers.

Figure 3.1

Technology

A wide range of software and hardware is being used by transportation and human service providers in the Mid-MO RPC region. Both CoMO Connect and Jefftran have recently developed smart phone applications (apps) that allow riders to track buses in real time and check schedules. This makes transit more reliable and easier to access. Both transit systems also maintain websites that allow riders to plan trips through the use of printable maps and schedules.

Other transit providers, such as OATS and CALTRAN, are using software programs to track daily itineraries and update rider manifests so that drivers are updated regularly on any changes to their routes. OATS has trained their drivers to use applications, via iPad, directly from their vehicles. A wireless internet package provided through their cell phone carrier allows OATS drivers to document passengers, fares, and route information and then share that with the main OATS office in Columbia.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 18 Several human service providers in the region are using similar software programs to track passengers, fares, and route information. Some providers are looking into developing apps for drivers to use in route to better serve their clients and increase efficiency. Many providers have stated great interest in increasing funding to support new technologies that would increase efficiency and in turn, access.

Education

Education of both the general public and local decision makers has been sited repeatedly as the key to increasing transit use and accessibility. Several agencies in the region provide the public, including those with special needs, information on transportation service available in the area. Also, United Way’s 211 program provides the public with a great source of local and regional information that can be accessed via phone or the 211 website. The opportunity for increased education of the public lies in providing better, up-to-date information that is accessible by any agency, support staff, or provider. Currently, data available to many human service agencies and providers is not consistent. While 211 provides a great source of information, it is not being utilized fully. Coordination amongst providers, 211 and local agencies would increase efficiency and access by providing the public with transportation choices.

In addition to educating the public on available services, it is important to highlight the need to educate elected officials and local decision makers on the sources of transportation funding and how it is distributed. Several providers have stated that there is a disconnect between elected officials and their understanding the sources of transportation funding.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 19 Section 4: Regional Stakeholders

The 2013 Coordinated Public Transit – Human Services Transportation Plan (PT-HST) provided a wealth of information regarding the current level of available transportation services in the Mid-MO RPC area. A map showing the locations of these agencies, nonprofits, and for-profit businesses providing transportation in the region is shown below. A table on the following page provides links and contact information for each agency; some of these are specifically Transportation Providers while others are Human Service Providers providing transportation as a part of their program. Detailed information on the providers is included further in the section. Some for-profit providers are not included in this assessment because they did not respond to inquiries during the planning process and are not profiled in detail. In addition to the information gathered from the 2013 PT-HST, more information about regional stakeholders such as sheltered workshops, schools, and residential care facilities has been added.

Figure 4.1

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 20 Table 4. 2 Transportation Providers in the Mid-MO RPC Area Service Area

Fixed Office

Organization Location Phone Boone Callaway Cole Cooper Howard Moniteau Jefferson A-1 Express Taxi City/ (573) 874-7110 x x x x x x Columbia

Alternative Community Training Columbia (573) 474-9446 x x x x x x

Boone County Council on Aging Columbia (573) 443-1111 x

Boone County Family Resources Columbia (573) 874-1995 x

Burell Behavioral Health Columbia (800) 395-2132 x x x x x x

CMAAA Columbia (573) 443-5823 x x x x x x Central Missouri Community Action Columbia (573) 443-8706 x x x x x x (CMCA) Central Missouri Subcontracting Columbia (573) 442-6935 x x x x x x Enterprises

Checker Cab Jefferson City (573) 636-7101 x x x x x x

Columbia Transit Columbia (573) 874-7250 x

Columbia Housing Authority Columbia (573) 443-2556 x

Cole County Residential Services, Inc. Jefferson City (573) 634-4555 x Department of Community Development Jefferson City (573) 634-6424 x x

Endless Options, Inc. Fayette (660) 248-5233 x

Independent Living Resource Center, Inc. Jefferson City (573) 556-0400 x x x

Independent Living Center Columbia (573) 874-1646 x

JEFFTRAN Jefferson City (573) 634-6477 x

Job Point Columbia (573) 474-8560 x

Katy Flyer Boonville (660) 882-2366

Missouri River Taxi Boonville (660) 882-7070 x x x x x x

MO Vocational Rehabilitation Jefferson City (573) 751-3251 x x x x x x

Mo-X Columbia (877) 669-4826 x x x x x x New Horizons Community Support Jefferson City (573) 636-8108 x x Service

OATS, Inc. Columbia (573) 443-3789 x x x x x x

Phoenix Programs Columbia (573) 875-8880 x

SERVE, Inc. Fulton (573) 642-6388 x

Services for Independent Living Columbia (573) 874-1646 x x x x Special Learning Center Jefferson City (573) 634-3070 x Taxi Terry's Columbia (573) 441-1414 x x x x x x

Tipton Manor, Inc. Tipton (660) 433-5574 x

Unlimited Opportunities Boonville (660) 882-5576 x

Voluntary Action Center Columbia (573) 874-2273 x

Woodhaven Learning Center Columbia (573) 875-6181 x

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 21 Transportation Providers

Transportation Providers, as profiled in this plan, are those organizations whose primary service is transportation. In the Mid-MO RPC region there are four major public transportation providers. Two of these providers, Columbia Transit and JEFFTRAN, provide service to the public within Columbia and Jefferson City respectively. The other two providers, OATS Inc. and SERVE/CALTRAN, provide more restrictive service based on eligibility and geographic availability. All of these transportation providers are profiled in more detail below.

COMO Connect (formerly Columbia Transit)

CoMOConnect, formerly Columbia Transit, is the general public provider in the City of Columbia. According to the CATSO 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan, transit service began nearly 50 years ago in 1965. As a part of a strategic planning effort, in mid-2013 Columbia Transit began work to redesign and rebrand the bus system based upon a shift to a multi-hub connector system using advanced routing, GPS tracking, and other user-oriented technologies. The new CoMOConnect system utilizes a network of routes with shorter travel times, expanded service hours, and 35 transfer nodes throughout the city. CoMOConnect offers several services: fixed-route, Paratransit, and MU shuttle services. CoMOConnect provides over two million passenger-trips annually. CoMOConnect is under the administration of the Columbia City Manager and Public Works Department.

The following points profile each service that is available through Columbia Transit:

• Fixed-Route: Fixed-route bus service within Columbia’s city limits uses 11 routes designated by number and color (eight neighborhood routes, two core connectors, and one downtown orbiter). Bus service starts at 6:25 a. m. and operates on various schedules ending 8:00 p. m., with scaled-back Saturday service. No service is provided on Sunday. Fixed-route service provides over 1. 1 million annual passenger-trips. • Paratransit: Columbia Paratransit provides specialized van service for persons with disabilities and elderly who are unable to use the fixed-route bus system. Service is provided curb-to-curb within the City limits of Columbia. Riders must meet eligibility requirements and become certified riders. The one-way fare is $2. 00. Paratransit service is offered during the same hours as the fixed-route service. The service provides approximately 41,000 annual trips. • Tiger Line is University of Missouri’s free shuttle service for students that runs seven (7) days a week during the fall and winter semesters. Tiger Line day routes run in approximately 10-minute intervals from 7 a. m. to 6 p. m. , and approximately 20-minute intervals 6 p. m. to 11 p. m. Monday through Friday from commuter parking lots to campus. Tiger Line night routes run in approximately 30-minute intervals from 6 p. m. to 1:30 a. m. on Sunday.

Figure 4.3 depicts the new CoMOConnect system.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 22 Figure 4.3

Currently, CoMOConnect does not coordinate with any other transportation provider. The transit service has more than 50 passenger vehicles, including various sizes of buses, vans, and smaller fleet vehicles.

Columbia Transit is funded through a combination of FTA 5307 (urbanized) funds, FTA 5309 (discretionary) funds, a state of Missouri annual grant, a local (City of Columbia) dedicated transportation sales tax, fares, advertising and contract revenue.

More detailed information about CoMOConnect can be found on their website at www. comoconnect. org

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 23

JEFFTRAN

JEFFTRAN, a City of Jefferson agency and public transit provider, serves the general public inside the city limits. The system consists of a fixed route transit system and a curb to curb service for people with disabilities called Handiwheels. All JEFFTRAN services run Monday through Friday from 6:45am to 5:45pm. JEFFTRAN is a city department, and therefore accountable to the City Council. Operating funds for JEFFTRAN come from FTA Section 5307 and State of Missouri Transit Assistance funds.

There are seven fixed routes and two shuttle routes. These routes provide transportation for roughly 480,000 passengers per year. According to a ridership survey done in 2006, 51% of riders use JEFFTRAN for getting to and from work. Rides for fixed route cost $1. 00 and there is no charge for transfers. Students can buy a 20 ride bus pass for $18; children 6 and under ride for free. People over 60 are eligible for a half fare pass and Medicare cards are honored.

Handiwheels operates six vehicles and has two spares providing as many as 300 riders each day with curb to curb service. Individuals with disabilities that cannot travel fixed routes are eligible for Handiwheels. Applications are available at City Hall or by mail request. The cost to ride is $2 per ride and Medicare passes are honored. Drivers provide assistance for clients with getting into and out of the vehicle as well as securing wheelchairs. Ridership fees and contracts with Missouri Department of Social Services and Cole County Residential Services provide some funds for Handiwheels operation. Fares and ridership fees make up make up 30% of the operations budget. Capital funds come from FTA Section 5309.

JEFFTRAN transports clients on behalf of many different human service agencies. Among these agencies are Cole County Residential Services (CCRS), Department of Mental Health (DMH), Department of Social Services (DSS), Easter Seals, Job Point, New Horizons, and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). Other agencies such as Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA) and Jefferson City Nursing & Rehabilitation Center serve clients who regularly use JEFFTRAN.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 24 A review of the Transit Development Plan completed in March of 2006 showed that passengers rate the service very high in all performance areas.

OATS

OATS is a private, nonprofit specialized transit provider which operates in 87 Missouri counties. Its mission is to provide reliable service for transportation disadvantaged Missourians so they can live independently in their own communities. The Mid-Missouri OATS Inc. region serves Audrain, Boone, Callaway, Camden, Cole, Cooper, Gasconade, Howard, Laclede, Maries, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan, Osage, and Pulaski Counties. The agency has been in operation since 1971 and provides door-to-door transportation services to individuals with little or no alternative form of transportation. OATS generally caters to the elderly, low income, and those with disabilities, but portions of the service are open to the general public. Residents in many small towns within the Mid-MO RPC region only have access to OATS services one to three times a month. Some in-town services are provided with more frequency in a handful of communities. A sample schedule of services within the Mid-MO RPC area can be found in Appendix D. Services are prioritized, however, for medical, essential shopping, and business. OATS provides service on differing schedules across the Mid-Missouri region. A quarterly newsletter, “The Wheel”, informs riders of service times in each county. “The Wheel” may be viewed online at: www. oatstransit. org

OATS is funded by a combination of federal, state, and local funds. Government funding through contracts with various agencies covers the cost for the elderly/disabled riders, while general public riders pay the full fare for service. Funding is acquired through FTA grants (Section 5309, Section 5339,

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 25 Section 5310, Section 5311,Section 5316-JARC), Medicaid, Missouri Elderly and Handicapped Transportation Assistance Program (MEHTAP), county governments, city governments, Department of Mental Health, service contracts, and rider fares. Fares are $5 round trip in-town rural, $7 round trip within a county, and $9 round trip to adjacent counties.

OATS has its main Mid-Missouri Regional Office in Columbia. There is covered parking for the Boone County fleet, including wash bays and a fueling station. OATS has a total fleet of 19 vehicles. Primarily, vehicles are modified vans and several small buses. Most vehicles are wheelchair-equipped.

As of spring 2013, OATS operating costs are approximately $19.30 per trip and $23.53 per hour, a fairly efficient service by county demand-response standards.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 26 SERVE/CALTRAN

Serve/CalTran is a private not-for-profit agency which provides transportation to qualified elderly, disabled, low-income, and youth living in Callaway County. It operates Monday through Friday. The fleet of ten vehicles includes nine minibuses with electronic wheelchair lifts and one seventeen passenger van; all are equipped with mobile radios. Serve/CalTran provides door to door transportation to dialysis, medical appointments, physical therapy, errands, beauty shops, work, and shopping. Serve/CalTran also refers clients to OATS and has a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation contract to work with taxi cab companies for out of county trips. On average, Serve/CalTran provides over 3,000 one-way trips a month and logs 18,000 miles per month. This level of service reflects Serve/CalTran’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and personal service to all riders.

Serve/CalTran has an annual operating budget of over $400,000 and its funding sources come from state, federal and local agencies. Many of the trips Serve/CalTran provides are paid for by contracts, grants, and private pay fees, donations, etc. Their office staff will work with individuals to ascertain eligibility and/or make the proper referrals to the funding sources they already have in place (Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services - Division of Aging, NEMT/Medicaid, Callaway County Special Services/Medicaid waiver, Central Missouri Regional Center-Missouri Department of Mental Health, Probation and Parole). Serve/CalTran also receives operating assistance funding through FTA Section 5311 that is administered by MODOT.

The basic service area includes in and around Fulton and an area within a 30 mile radius in adjacent Audrain, Boone, and Cole counties. Travel further away for necessary medical appointments is possible through NEMT4. Individuals who are not eligible for or not enrolled in any of these funding programs are eligible for transportation services pending the assessment by office staff of ability to pay the nominal fee.

The fare for ambulatory persons residing in Fulton and traveling within the city limits is $2. 50 round trip; an in-county round trip ride is $20. For ambulatory persons residing in town and traveling to Columbia, Jefferson City, or Mexico the fee is $40 round trip and must be scheduled ahead of time.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 27 Human Service Providers

Human Service Providers, as it pertains to this planning process, are those organizations that provide direct services for people who may need assistance or support, such as: people with developmental disabilities; people with physical disabilities; people with mental illness; children; elders/senior citizens; veterans; people who are homeless; people who are poor; people who are incarcerated or just released; people with certain health needs; and people who are abused. These organizations may also directly provide transportation services or may contract out to other agencies to provide transportation for people who use their services.

All of the human service providers in the Mid-MO RPC region are profiled alphabetically below. Information contained in the profiles stems from returned provider surveys and information contained in the most current CAMPO and CATSO transportation plans.

Alternative Community Training, Inc. (ACT)

Alternative Community Training, Inc. helps disabled people find employment and housing. The organization hires people with and without disabilities. It operates a 15,000-square-foot facility where employees recycle software and other electronic media. The agency estimates they provide approximately 11,000 annual trips for clients using a combination of nine vans and one car.

All of ACT’s vehicles are leased or owned by ACT. The organization does not have actual direct revenue reimbursement for transportation costs, but it is included in rates received per program. The agency spends approximately $130,000 annually on transportation expenses. The organization expressed some interest in coordination. Funding limitations may inhibit coordination activities as trip purposes are limited to employment. Funding sources include both federal and state sources such as the Department of Mental Health, State of Missouri, and Vocational Rehabilitation funding.

Boone County Council on Aging, Inc. (BCCA)

Since 1973, BCCA has specialized in matching needs with resources like medical care, support groups, and housing assistance. They provide care management for seniors 55 and older with low incomes or limited local family. The BCCA does not provide transportation services except through some limited volunteers. The agency is in favor of increased support for public transportation, which has been identified as a growing need among clients. The BCCA indicated coordination and the provision of formal transportation services was not of interest at this time.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 28 Boone County Family Resources (BCFR)

Boone County Family Resources is a public agency of the county that serves individuals with developmental disabilities. BCFR provides purchased transportation to eligible clients of the agency in Columbia and some adjacent areas in Boone County. Thus, BCFR coordinates with other social service agencies (SIL), transportation providers (Columbia Transit, OATS), and cab companies. Additionally, BCFR will reimburse mileage if staff provides transportation for residential clients to go to work and doctor appointments. BCFR has 15 total vehicles (5 cars and 10 vans) which provide support to 46 clients. In the past, BCFR has shown interest in coordination activities if found to be applicable.

Burrell Behavioral Health

Burrell is a private, not-for-profit organization serving individuals in need of mental health services. Burrell operates out of two locations in Columbia, as well as elsewhere in central Missouri. Burrell has two active vehicles, one 15-passenger van, and one 12-passenger van. These vehicles were acquired with FTA Section 5310 grant funding. The vehicles are used to transport the agency's adult clients on group outings throughout the community, as well as to and from the agency clinics for therapy and doctor visits. The vans are also used to transport child clients to and from school or home to the clinics for visits.

Central Missouri Area Agency on Aging (CMAAA)

The Central Missouri Area Agency on Aging contracts with Checker Livery, J&J Taxi, SERVE, and Show-Me Medical Transportation to provide transportation services in the Mid-MO RPC area. It is funded through a combination of federal and state funding and donations. CMAAA provides transportation assistance in the following categories:

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 29 Shopping/Essential Business Trips: The maximum number of trips per month is 8 one-way trips. Note: A maximum of 24 additional shopping/business trips may be approved for a rider needing to visit their spouse in the nursing home or hospital.

Senior Center Trips for nutritional purposes: The maximum number of trips per month is 46 one- way trips.

Non-Emergency Medical Trips (for riders who aren’t eligible for Medicaid nor utilizing other subsidized medical transport services): The maximum number of trips per month is pre- authorized by CMAAA’s county care coordinator.

CMAAA purchases bus tickets for riders in Columbia and Jefferson City; these tickets can be used for paratransit service only, not for general bus service.

As of end of April 2013, CMAAA had spent $138,671 in transportation costs in the Mid-MO RPC region. The following is the breakdown for each county:

Boone - $87,000 Callaway - $9,000 Cole - $23,000 Cooper - $1,300 Howard - $16,000 Moniteau - $2,371

Differences in cost can be attributed to the use of various services such as OATS, SIL, and/or other transportation providers. CMAAA also offers “consumer-directed transportation.” With pre-authorization by their county care coordinator, CMAAA’s clients can choose their own provider to transport them for shopping/essential business, lunch at the senior center, and medical appointments. These drivers are not contracted private, for-profit providers.

Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA)

Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA) is a nonprofit corporation which provides an array of services and program oversight. They provide the following services, as well as numerous others: Head Start; Section 8 Rental Assistance; Employment and Training; Housing Development Activities; and Family Support. CMCA indicated that they provide approximately 50,000 annual trips. Trips are provided using bus passes and as cash to clients. The corporation spends approximately $27,000 annually on transportation. The corporation is funded through a myriad of funding sources including federal and state funding, donations, grants, and MEHTAP. Trips are limited to seniors, children, and low-income residents of the county. They have indicated a high level of interest in coordination of transportation resources.

Central Missouri Subcontracting Enterprises (CMSE)

Central Missouri Subcontracting Enterprises (CMSE) provides meaningful, dignified employment to persons with disabilities in Missouri through the production of goods and services for the private sector. CMSE also provides advocacy and support to persons with disabilities. CMSE currently provides transportation services to 15 of their 124 employees. The remainder of employees either utilize Columbia

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 30 Transit or private or residential agency transportation. CMSE provides approximately 3,750 round trips annually utilizing two agency vans and two cars for transporting employees to and from work sites. The cost for this transportation is approximately $48,000 annually. CMSE reported being slightly interested in some coordination opportunities.

Columbia Housing Authority (CHA)

The Housing Authority of the City of Columbia has 719 units targeted for affordable housing opportunities for low-income persons and families. CHA also administers more than 1,000 Housing Choice Vouchers for Section 8 Rental Assistance which provides rental assistance to very low-income families. These Section 8 units are owned by more than 700 private landlords and are located throughout Boone County but primarily within the City of Columbia. The Authority provides shuttle van service to clients using three vans and provides approximately 18,000 annual trips. Cost for services is estimated at approximately $18,000. They also assist residents in contacting both OATS and Columbia Transit for additional transportation services. The Authority indicated that coordination activities were non- applicable to the organization.

Job Point (formally Advent Enterprises)

Job Point provides youth services and vocational assessment, job training, and placement services to people with disabilities and the economically disadvantaged. Job Point is a comprehensive employment center, fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Continuing education and youth mentoring support are also available.

Job Point serves northeast and central Missouri. Transportation services are provided with company- owned, grant-funded vehicles. Funding for Job Point comes through a variety of sources, including FTA 5310, the Missouri Department of Transportation, state funding, and tax credits. Trips are limited to those which are directly related to vocational needs. Job Point indicated an interest in coordination activities, particularly with Columbia Transit around provision of reduced or free transportation vouchers. Job Point identified the need for a more comprehensive municipal transit system.

New Horizons

New Horizons is a not-for-profit mental health provider in Cole and Boone County. While the agency does have a 14-passenger van to transport clients to and from the day program, most transportation is provided by staff in personal vehicles. Staff is reimbursed for mileage. As a part of their mission, New Horizons works to help clients integrate within the community. Thus, their life skills training efforts teach clients how to use public transit. New Horizons is interested in supporting increased public transit options and may be interested in any applicable coordination efforts.

Phoenix Programs

Phoenix Programs, a nonprofit agency located in Columbia, is an outpatient substance abuse program providing counseling for individuals, families, and groups. The agency provides transportation in the form of bus passes as well as using an agency van and two cars. They reported having an annual budget of approximately $44,000, which is federally-funded, and provide approximately 1,000 annual trips for

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 31 the homeless. They have approximately 100 clients at any one time. Some level of interest in coordination opportunities was shown by Phoenix Programs.

Rainbow House

Rainbow House is a nonprofit child advocate agency that provides emergency shelter for abused and neglected children and families in dire need. They accommodate approximately 200 children in the shelter annually. They are funded through the State of Missouri and donations. The agency has two vans for transportation. Annually, the agency is estimated to provide approximately 1,600 trips. Rainbow House indicated some level of interest in coordination.

Services for Independent Living (SIL)

Services for Independent Living (SIL) is a nonprofit which promotes independence for persons with disabilities. Many individuals with disabilities cannot utilize traditional transportation. SIL offers accessible transportation with door-to-door service Sunday through Friday, 8:00a. m. to 5:00 p. m. SIL has eligibility requirements for clients and charges according to the following fee schedule: $2 per stop (City); $3 per stop (Outside City Limits); $5 per stop (County to County.) Within the past decade, SIL has applied for Section 5310 funding.

Vocational Rehabilitation

This program assists individuals with physical or mental disabilities in obtaining employment. Services include vocational counseling/exploration, vocational training, medical restorative services, and job placement services. Vocational Rehabilitation may provide those who financially qualify with transportation to and from these services in the form of bus passes, travel reimbursement, and taxi fares. The agency provides approximately 1,750 trips annually — 550 in the form of bus passes and 1,200 trips in the form of reimbursement. The agency expends approximately $29,000 annually on transportation for 300 individuals. Vocational Rehabilitation is required by Federal Law to access all comparable benefits and to coordinate with other transportation service providers.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 32 Voluntary Action Center (VAC)

Voluntary Action Center (VAC) is a nonprofit organization that provides information on available human services in the area, provides emergency assistance when local programs are unable to meet community needs, collaborates and coordinates with various local agencies, and provides volunteer coordination and training. They also provide services such as transportation, prescriptions, food, clothing, and shelter. Their service area includes all of Boone County. Funding sources include the United Way, Boone County, the City of Columbia, Boone Electric Trust, and churches in the area.

VAC provides both bus passes and gas for clients. In 2012, 4,720 bus tickets were provided for work trips. They reported that they provide approximately 6,700 trips annually. They are funded through a city grant and donations. Total operating costs were reported as approximately $5,700 annually. Some interest in coordination was indicated by VAC.

Sheltered Workshops

Central Missouri Sheltered Enterprises http://www. cmse. org

Kingdom Projects, Inc. http://kingdomprojects. org/ Capitol Projects www. capitolprojectsinc. com

Unlimited Opportunities, Inc http://www. uoi. org/

The Mid-MO RPC region has four sheltered workshops. These workshops provide employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities and many of the employees use public transit or human service agencies to travel to and from work. The sheltered workshops in the Mid-MO RPC region are only a portion of the 92 workshops that exist in the state. Listed below are the four Mid-MO RPC area workshops.

• Central Missouri Sheltered Enterprises, located in Columbia • Kingdom Projects, Inc. , located in Fulton • Capitol Projects, located in Jefferson City • Unlimited Opportunities, Inc, located in Boonville

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 33 Residential Care Facilities

There are approximately 37 Residential Care facilities in the Mid-MO RPC region. According to the Missouri State Department of Health and Senior Services, these facilities provide 24-hour care to at least 3 or more residents. The type of care may range from general boarding and protective oversight to dietary supervision and assistance with the administration of medications. These facilities have residents who may still maintain fairly independent lifestyles and use a wide range of transportation providers such as public paratransit services, OATS, CALTRAN, or other private providers to access shopping, entertainment, and healthcare. These facilities are important stakeholders when planning regional transportation coordination activities. Below are listed all of the Residential care facilities within the Mid- MO RPC region. Other “Long-Term Care” facilities have been excluded from this list because those facilities often times use private ambulance service due to serious medical needs.

Residential Care Facility I

Facility which provides 24-hour care to three or more residents who need or are provided with shelter, board, and protective oversight, which may include storage, distribution or administration of medications and care during short-term illness or recuperation. Residents who live in a RCF are required to make a path to safety unassisted. A licensed Nursing Home Administrator is not required.

Bluegrass Terrace Ashland

Bristol Manor Of Centralia Centralia

Sturgeon Rest Home Sturgeon

Ashbury Heights Of Fulton Fulton

Bristol Manor Of Fulton Fulton

Valley Park Retirement Center Holts Summit

Ashbury Heights Of Jefferson City Jefferson City

Bristol Manor Of Jefferson City Jefferson City

Castleparke #2 Jefferson City

Castleparke Retirement Campus #1 Jefferson City

Castleparke Retirement Center #3 Jefferson City

Bristol Manor Of Boonville Boonville

Ashbury Heights Of Fayette Fayette

Ashbury Heights Of Tipton Tipton

Bristol Manor Of California California

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 34 Residential Care Facility* (continues to comply with former RCFII requirements)

Facility which provides 24-hour accommodation, board, and care to three or more residents who need or are provided with supervision of diets, assistance in personal care, storage, distribution or administration of medications, supervision of health care under the direction of a licensed physician, and protective oversight, including care during short-term illness or recuperation. Residents who live in a RCF* are required to make a path to safety unassisted. A licensed Nursing Home Administrator is required.

Candlelight Lodge Retirement Center Columbia Harambee House, Inc Columbia Bridgeway Residential Care Facility Fulton Melody House Jefferson City Oak Tree Villas-A Stonebridge Community Jefferson City Lakeview Health Care & Rehabilitation Center Boonville Maplelawn Residential Care Facility Fayette Moniteau Care Center California

Education

There are 25 school districts in the Mid-MO RPC area. The higher population school districts of Columbia (17,203 students in 2014) and Jefferson City (8,909 students in 2014) are users of public transit services. The City of Columbia reported that public school and university students represent 10-15% of transit users in 2013. Surveys conducted by both transit systems have shown that students use the public transit system to attend afterschool activities, go to work, and for recreation. In addition to public schools, students attending several local colleges and universities in Columbia and Jefferson City use public transit to attend classes go to work. CoMOConnect provides specifically contracted routes to serve University of Missouri Students during the spring and fall semesters. It would be prudent to invite educational institutions in the Mid-MO RPC region to participate in future coordination efforts.

Other Stakeholders

There are several other potential stakeholders concerning transportation use and access in the Mid-MO RPC region. These stakeholders could provide input on access issues and demands. Major employers, hospitals, and entertainment venues could all potentially benefit from better transportation services for their employees and patrons. Due to the constraints of transit operational hours, many people do not see transit as an option in accessing these types of places and services.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 35 Section 5: Regional Goals, Strategies, and Implementation

The Goals and Strategies developed for this Implementation Strategy were created to be in line with those of the 2013 Mid-MO RPC Coordinated Public Transit-Human Service Transportation Plan (PT-HST). The 2013 PT-HST Plan was written as an update to the 2008 plan of the same name. The original plan and the updated plan both identified regional goals to encourage coordination by transportation and human service providers. Those goals are listed below:

Goal 1: Increase efficiency through coordination and education

Goal 2: Continue maintenance and/or expansion of accessibility

Through the 2013-2014 planning process, a new list of Goals and Strategies were created. With input from participants in the Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordination Council, the general public, regional planning partners, and local advocacy groups, the following Goals and Strategies emerged. After the development of the new Goals and Strategies, the MMTCC developed a list of potential implementation projects to address each strategy. A project, or projects, will be chosen from this list for further development and implementation. Below are listed the Goals, Strategies and Implementation Projects:

Goal 1: Increase efficiency through advocacy, coordination, and education

Strategy 1: Educate both the public and service agencies about types of service available. This could be done through the creation of a coordination staff position, directory, or website.

Implementation: Educate, through targeted presentations, other agencies, elected officials, and the public about: • transit need • transit challenges • available services • sources of transit funding

Implementation: Create a PR campaign for types of services and how to access Implementation: Maintain and/or increase agency staff knowledge about services Implementation: Increase agency staff and elected officials knowledge about services Implementation: Develop a brochure for services that agencies can edit Implementation: Develop a website or call center to address public demand for services

Strategy 2: Develop a regional plan for coordination between social service agencies and transportation providers.

Implementation: Maintain continuation of Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordination Council

Goal 2: Continue maintenance and/or expansion of accessibility

Strategy 1: Secure funding necessary to sustain current system capabilities, including sufficient levels of qualified staff and equipment. This would include increase of staff capacity, training, equipment upgrades and expansion of hours of operation.

Implementation: Prioritize a regional list of transit needs Implementation: Document needs, challenges, and successes across the region

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 36 Implementation: Develop and maintain a regional Coordination Implementation Plan. This is being accomplished through two regional documents: • Coordinated Public Transit – Human Services Transportation Plan • MODDC / Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy

Strategy 2: Promote and secure funding for expansion of services and programs. Implementation: Educate agencies, local governments, and elected officials about funding sources: • Sales tax • Senior Tax Boards • State and Federal Funding

Strategy 3: Create a framework to prepare for infrastructure pressure stemming from increase in aging population

Plan for Implementation

If regional stakeholders choose to pursue one or more of the above stated implementation projects, support from multiple stakeholders would be key to success. Without regional coordination, many of the above listed goals would not be possible. Stakeholders will be asked, as part of this Implementation Strategy, to write letters of support for any project chosen.

As stated in Section 1, if an application for Phase II is submitted to the Missouri Developmental Disability Council (MODDC) in fall 2014, the implementation project would occur with two years of funding approval. It is important to note that the MODDC would be providing a 20% match, up to $20,000, if a project were approved. MoDOT would provide 80% of the funding. According to MoDOT, applications for mobility management projects could be accepted by fall 2014. Funding, if approved, may be released by spring of 2015. This would mean that the MODDC funding of the project would have to be expended by 2017. MoDOT has stated that their timeline for expending funds may be more flexible.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 37 Section 6: Planning Partners and Coordination Resources

Planning Partners

In addition to working closely with member communities and counties, Mid-MO RPC staff maintains a close working relationship with three main transportation planning partners: the Missouri Department of Transportation, the Columbia Area Transportation Study Organization (CATSO) and the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO). All of these agencies are responsible for coordinating transportation activities and work closely with the public to understand changing demands, challenges, and opportunities.

Mid-MO RPC receives funding from MoDOT to complete various coordination activities including maintenance and updates of the Regional Transportation Plan, Regional Transportation Needs List, and the PT-HST. The RPC provides a forum for public education and coordination via the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC). The TAC holds public meetings every other month and provides the RPC board with recommendations concerning regional and state transportation activities. CAMPO and CATSO also hold regular public meetings which RPC staff attend. MoDOT provides the funding for RPC staff to support these and other transportation planning activities.

Coordination Resources – Regional, State, and National

There are several agencies and associations that provide resources to aid in coordination at the regional, state, and national level. These groups provide transportation providers and many times transit users with educational resources, training, and technical support. Several of these support entities are listed below.

Regional….

As referenced in Section 4, there are a handful of agencies in the Mid-MO region that work both separately and together to coordinate transportation planning. All three planning agencies, Mid-MO RPC, CAMPO, and CATSO maintain Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plans as well as other transportation planning documents and tools. The plans highlight capabilities and challenges within their respective areas. These plans are important tools for coordination and planning in a region with a wide array of transit providers and transit users. All plans are available on each agency’s website.

State ….

Missouri Public Transit Association (MPTA)

MPTA “was established in 1980 as a Missouri non-profit corporation. It was formed to provide a unified voice for public and specialized transportation providers in Missouri and to work toward elevating the status of public transit as a national priority. ”

MPTA's staff provides a legislative liaison and its office serves as a central clearinghouse for member information and requests for assistance. The association has developed a variety of programs to facilitate education and networking among transit professionals in Missouri.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 38 Membership in MPTA is open to anyone who has an interest in the future of public transit in Missouri. Transit system members range from large urban systems to single vehicle agencies in the most rural counties of the state. Affiliate members include representatives of sheltered workshops, community organizations, citizen advocacy groups, government and quasi-government agencies and industry suppliers.

MoDOT

MoDOT provides financial and technical assistance to public transit and specialized transit providers across the state. This function is carried out through the administration of state and federal programs for both general public transportation and programs serving senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

National….

National Center for Mobility Management (NCMM)

The National Center for Mobility Management is an initiative of the United We Ride program, and is supported through a cooperative agreement with the Federal Transit Administration. Their mission is to facilitate communities to adopt transportation strategies and mobility options that empower people to live independently and advance health, economic vitality, self-sufficiency, and community.

The NCMM’s primary activities support FTA grantees, mobility managers, and partners in adopting proven, sustainable, and replicable transportation coordination, mobility management, and one call–one click transportation information practices. These activities are described below.

• Provide assistance to communities through NCMM Regional Liaisons, a peer-to-peer network, short-term technical assistance, web resources, and one-on-one phone and e-mail support • Deliver in-person and virtual trainings, a monthly e-newsletter, webinars, and conference calls • Disseminate descriptions of relevant promising practices, including “snapshots” of a particular topic or trend as well as a more in-depth database of practices • Collaborate with mobility management practitioners through several communication forums • Align and support the goals and activities of the Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility (CCAM) and the Federal Transit Administration’s United We Ride program

The Center is operated through a consortium of three national organizations:

• American Public Transportation Association • Community Transportation Association of America • Easter Seals Transportation Group

Easter Seals

Easter Seals provides services, education, outreach, and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work, and play in their communities. For over 24 years, Easter Seals has furthered accessible transportation for people of all ages with disabilities. Easter Seals receives a number

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 39 of federal grants to provide technical assistance, training, outreach, and applied research through projects such as Easter Seals Project ACTION, the National Center on Senior Transportation (in partnership with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging), and other initiatives supporting transportation for veterans, open government on-line innovations, mobility management, and travel training.

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA)

The APTA is a nonprofit international association of 1,500 public and private sector organizations engaged in the areas of bus, paratransit, light rail, commuter rail, subways, waterborne services, and intercity and high-speed passenger rail. This includes transit systems; planning, design, construction, and finance firms; product and service providers; academic institutions; transit associations; and state departments of transportation.

Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA)

Established in 1989, the Community Transportation Association of America is a national, professional, membership association of organizations and individuals committed to securing mobility options for all people. CTAA provides technical assistance, offers educational programs, conducts research, and advocates for available, affordable, and accessible community transportation.

United Way 211….

United Way 211 provides the public with a 24 hours and day, seven days a week connection to a trained resource specialist. This specialist connects people to the resources and information they may need to access many basic needs such as:

• Food pantries • Shelters • Rent assistance • Utility assistance • Mortgage assistance

Calls are free, confidential, and TTY and multilingual services are available. Assistance is also available in locating other resources:

• Physical and mental health resources • Jobs programs • Support for seniors and those with disabilities • Support for children, youth and families • Volunteering

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 40 Section 7: Funding

As stated in Section 1, the Implementation phase (Phase II) would be funded through a separate application to the MODDC in fall 2014. As stated in the 2013 MODDC Call for Investments (CFI), the MODDC will provide up to $20,000 in matching funds to create and implementation project. These funds would be the 20% match needed for MoDOT/FTA Federal Transportation Grant funding administered by MoDOT and would require a separate application process through MoDOT. The Phase II funding would last an additional 2 years. Release of funding for Phase II would be contingent on the approval of this Implementation Strategy and the ability to access Federal Transportation Grant funds.

Grant funds stemming from MoDOT would be administered by the MoDOT Transit Section. The Transit Section assists in the planning, development and operation of the State’s public transit and specialized paratransit systems. This is carried out through the administration of state and federal programs relating to general public transportation and specific programs for the elderly and disabled. Small urban and rural general public transit systems receive financial and technical support from the department. Federal financial assistance is allocated to the various systems by the department.

Formula Capital and Operating Assistance

The FTA provides formula capital and operating assistance to transit systems in urban areas of more than 50,000 in population. The Multimodal Operations Division includes the Transit Section which administers this program for urban cities under 200,000 populations. These cities include Columbia, Joplin, Jefferson City and St. Joseph. Major urban centers, which include Kansas City, Springfield and St. Louis, apply for and receive formula capital and operating assistance directly through the FTA.

Missouri Elderly and Handicapped Transportation Assistance Program (MEHTAP)

MEHTAP provides state financial assistance for public and nonprofit organizations offering transportation services to the elderly and disabled at below-cost rates.

FTA Section 5310

The Transit Section purchases approximately 65 vehicles for about 35 grantees each year using funds allocated to the State through the FTA Elderly and Persons with Disabilities Capital Assistance Program (Section 5310). The program is open to all areas of the State (rural, urbanized and urban) for nonprofit organizations and qualifying public entities.

FTA Section 5311

FTA provides funding for capital, operating and planning expenditures to transit systems serving non- urban areas. MoDOT’s Transit Section receives the funds from FTA and administers the program for transit providers meeting the qualifying criteria for Section 5311.

FTA Rural Transportation Assistance Program

The Transit Section also administers this training and technical assistance program funded by the FTA. Training courses offered include defensive driving, CPR and first aid, passenger assistance techniques and emergency procedures. Technical assistance is offered in vehicle procurement and maintenance.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 41 The previous transportation bill, SAFETEA-LU, includes a requirement that any funding for projects under the FTA Section 5310 program, the Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC) program, or the New Freedom program be based on a local coordinated transportation plan.

With the changes brought about by the 2012 transportation bill, MAP-21, there have been many changes, consolidations, and deletions in funding programs. Funding is dependent on the type of service provider applying. The chart below, provided by the FTA, gives a brief overview of the changes that occurred with the switch to MAP-21.

There are currently three main sources of funding:

• Urbanized Area Formula Grants

• Formula Grants for the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

• Formula Grants for Other Than Urbanized Areas (Rural Formula)

Because of the many changes between the previous transportation bill and MAP-21, program funding pools may be difficult to navigate. The following summary of changes to these programs is outlined

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 42 below. This information is provided by the United States Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Urbanized Area Formula Grants

Secs. 3008 and 3027, 49 USC 5307 and 5336

• Maintains the basic structure for urbanized area grants under Section 5307. The program continues to be the largest program for federal investment in public transportation. The “Job Access and Reverse Commute” program (JARC) has been moved to Section 5307.

• Maintains the existing criteria for use of 5307 funds for capital projects (operating expenses continue to be ineligible) in urban areas with a population greater than 200,000. In addition, the bill maintains language allowing rural areas to use up to 100 percent of their 5307 funding for operating expenses. A modified “100 bus rule” has been included, allowing systems with 75-100 buses operating in peak service to use up to 25% of their 5307 funding for operating expenses and those operating 75 or fewer buses to use up to 50% for operating expenses.

• Includes a provision establishing a program to allow public transportation providers temporary flexibility during periods of high unemployment to use a limited portion of their 5307 funds for up to two years, provided they meet the established criteria, for operating expenses.

Formula Grants for the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Sec. 3011, 49 USC 5310

• Consolidates the existing “Elderly and Disabled” (Sec. 5310) and “New Freedom” (Sec. 5317) programs into a single program that increases the level of resources available beyond the level of funding available under existing programs.

• The consolidated program will continue to ensure support for nonprofit providers of transportation, and it will continue the make funds available to public transportation services that exceed the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, as previously provided under the “New Freedom” program.

• Maintains the requirement for communities to develop a coordinated public transportation-human services transportation plan to improve the delivery of service.

Formula Grants for Other Than Urbanized Areas (Rural Formula)

Sec. 3012, 49 USC 5311

• Maintains the existing structure providing funding to states for public transportation in rural areas. The 5311 formula is expanded to include the rural component of the current “Job Access and Reverse Commute” program that is being eliminated, and the level of public transportation service that is provided within a state’s rural areas will be considered in the distribution of new funds.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 43 • Funding for the “Public Transportation on Indian Reservations” program is increased to $30 million. The Secretary will distribute $10 million competitively each fiscal year, and $20 million will be available to Indian Tribes as formula grants to continue and expand public transportation services.

• Establishes a new “Appalachian Development Public Transportation Program” to distribute $20 million to states within the Appalachian region with a goal of providing greater public transportation opportunities to residents in these challenged areas.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 44 Section 8: Conclusion

This Implementation Strategy is a result of a number of different activities undertaken to meet the goals of the planning grant. The input and guidance provided by participants in the Mid-Missouri Transportation Coordination Council (MMTCC) has been invaluable in the development of this Implementation Strategy. The implementation projects proposed in of Section 5 were developed through the consistent efforts of the MMTCC and reflect a coordinated regional awareness of the need for better education, funding, and technology. Increases in any of these key areas could provide transportation providers and human service providers with the resources needed to increase accessibility.

Through the analysis of previous planning efforts and discussions with transportation providers it is evident that there is and always will be a need for better access to transportation services. Better coordination is consistently cited as an important tool for increasing the efficiency of transit services and providing better access to those in need. That being said, more participation from providers in coordination activities is needed. Coordination is dependent upon participants giving and receiving in equal amounts. This planning process has shown that many providers are interested in providing input and support, but prolonged participation may be dependent on those agencies receiving a benefit of that support. The result of this planning process is the identification of possible projects or activities that both support coordination and increase access to transportation. It is the goal of Mid-MO RPC to apply for grant funds to turn one or some of these projects into a reality.

It is the recommendation of Mid-MO RPC, in coordination with the MMTCC, to apply for mobility management funding through the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). The implementation projects identified in Section 5 can be used to create a regional project to achieve the goals of both the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC) and the MMTCC.

MODDC/Mid-MO RPC Transportation Coordination Implementation Strategy 45