Bob Engler

This document outlines the Ventura County Demand-Response Customer Experience Plan, designed to enhance the on-demand and paratransit rider experience. The plan focuses on improving service coordination, ensuring ADA compliance, and optimizing financial return on investment. Key initiatives include promoting fixed-route services, standardizing ADA eligibility, embracing dynamic scheduling through a unified software platform, implementing a single mobile application and phone number, and developing consistent service branding. It also addresses establishing uniform policies for no-shows, dwell time, and fare structures, evaluating regional service models, and creating equitable cost allocation mechanisms. The overall objective is to foster a seamless, accessible, and efficient transportation system across Ventura County.

The committee meeting agenda includes the election of a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, the review and approval of the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Unmet Transit Needs findings, a presentation on the Draft Demand-Response Integration Plan update, and an update on local and major transit projects. The committee will also receive reports from the Chairperson and members, and discuss future agenda items.

The committee discussed updates on Caltrans projects, advancements in regional intelligent transportation systems architecture, and a dashboard project for the Ventura County bus stop inventory and assessment. Members reviewed the Active Transportation Program Cycle 8 application process and requirements. Furthermore, the committee received information regarding the SCAG Connect SoCal local data exchange process and newly adopted programming procedures for federal funding, including guidance on project scopes, delivery performance, and obligation management.

The committee discussed updates on the TAP2RIDE regional farecap planning and the allocation request for the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program regarding the Ventura County Free Fare program. Additionally, they reviewed consultant support for ADA policy revisions, the transition of the College Ride Program to tap cards and mobile applications, and received a monthly update on the ADA Certification Services Program.

This document outlines the Ventura County Short-Range Transit Plan for 2025-2034, providing a comprehensive assessment of public transportation programs. It identifies transit needs, evaluates system alignment, and recommends service improvement strategies over the next decade. Key priorities include strengthening and enhancing the overall transit network through specific route modifications, adding new services, and extending operating hours to maximize rider flexibility. The plan incorporates public input and aims to attract new riders by expanding availability and improving system coordination and marketing across local and regional services.