Baker Alloush

The Executive Committee discussed the proposed 2026 work plan, which includes agenda topics for upcoming meetings such as board policy reviews, performance reviews, and legislative programs. The committee also received a detailed presentation on the regional fare change study, exploring potential scenarios to manage rising operating, fuel, and labor costs. Discussions included a potential phased implementation of fare increases, the collapse of Coaster zones, and the importance of maintaining regional service levels while considering public feedback gathered through recent outreach efforts.

The committee meeting addressed several key operational and planning items. The agenda included the election of the committee chair and vice chair for 2026. Participants reviewed the proposed 2026 committee work plan, with discussions centering on long-term marketing strategies, community outreach, and the integration of marketing initiatives into future work plans. Additionally, the committee received a presentation on the fiscal year 2027 Service Implementation Plan (SIP), which detailed ridership projections, funding uncertainties, the role of the youth opportunity pass, plans for introducing articulated buses, and the status of NCTD Plus services in specific cities.

The committee convened to discuss the proposed calendar year 2026 work plan and review a fare change study. The fare change study involved an overview of proposed modifications to the regional fare ordinance, a summary of public feedback gathered through various outreach channels, and an evaluation of demographic and survey data to inform future fare recommendations.

The meeting included protocol items such as a safety brief and evacuation procedures, followed by procedural announcements regarding board member comments and the introduction of a new voting system. Key agenda items included the approval of the February 15, 2024, regular board meeting minutes. Discussion occurred over consent agenda item number two concerning the Transit Operations Performance Report, focusing on declining Coaster ridership, increased Flex service usage, and suggestions to enhance Flex services. Item 11 involved the award of an agreement for Federal lobbying Services to Holland & Knight LLP, which was approved after review of various federal funding opportunities like FY2025 Appropriations and surface transportation reauthorization. Additionally, an update was provided regarding weekend maintenance work along the Coaster corridor, the expected return to service for the San Diego Trolley service on March 25th, and productive discussions held with other agencies impacted by the corridor.

The meeting called to order the April 18, 2024, regular board meeting. Key discussions focused on conducting and closing a public hearing regarding the proposed operation of the Sero Valley Coaster Connection Service, which NCTD plans to take over from MTS starting June 10th. The presentation summarized public input received since February, including 260 survey responses and outreach to large employers, which indicated strong support for the service due to its importance for employees in the region's largest employment center. A minor route modification for Route 474 serving the UCSD area was proposed to provide a more direct path to the Science Research Park. The Title 6 Equity Analysis found no disparate impact or disproportionate burden. The financial impact involves incremental costs estimated at $911,000 for a full fiscal year, with a net cost of approximately $524,000 after accounting for the payment currently made to MTS. The staff recommended closing the public hearing and approving the operations of the service effective June 10, 2024. Public commenters, including representatives from Alexandria Real Estate Equities and Biocom California, voiced strong support for the service continuation, citing its essential role for life science employees and potential for private subsidies.