MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA

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MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA

LOSSAN RAIL CORRIDOR AGENCY

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

The Committee/TAC may take action on any item appearing on this agenda.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009 (NOTE: DATE CHANGE) 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Board Conference Room, 3rd Floor LA Metro

Los Angeles, CA

Staff Contact: Linda Culp, SANDAG (619) 699-6957 lcu@sandag.org

AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

•

LOSSAN CORRIDORWIDE STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT UPDATE AND INITIAL SERVICE VISION

•

LOSSAN CORRIDOR EARLY ACTION PROJECTS

•

FY 2010 LOSSAN OVERALL WORK PLAN

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LOSSAN RAIL CORRIDOR AGENCY TAC MEETING

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

ITEM # ACTION

1. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

2. PUBLIC COMMENT/COMMUNICATIONS

Speakers are limited to three minutes each.

+3. APPROVAL OF THE DECEMBER 2, 2008, MEETING MINUTES APPROVE

The minutes from the TAC’s last meeting are attached.

+4. FY 2010 LOSSAN OVERALL WORK PROGRAM (Linda Culp, SANDAG) RECOMMEND

TAC members will discuss the LOSSAN overall work program for FY 2010, including member assessments, and consider a recommendation for the Board of Directors at its February 11, 2009, meeting.

+5. LOSSAN CORRIDORWIDE STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT UPDATE AND INITIAL SERVICE VISION (Darrell Johnson, OCTA)

DISCUSSION

OCTA has contracted with Wilbur Smith Associates to conduct the LOSSAN Corridorwide Strategic Assessment. The project partners are Caltrans, Metro, OCTA, SCRRA, NCTD, and SANDAG. To date, surveys have been completed onboard Los Angeles to San Diego Amtrak, COASTER, and Metrolink trains, and telephone surveys of non-riders in the entire corridor. The project partners discussed the initial service vision for the corridor at their January 21, 2009, meeting.

OCTA plans to introduce placeholder legislation this session to allow an agency to assume operations in the corridor.

+6. LOSSAN CORRIDOR EARLY ACTION PROJECTS (Linda Culp, SANDAG) RECOMMEND

TAC members are asked to review the list of capital projects that are ready to go to construction over the next 6-18 months in preparation for upcoming funding opportunities at both the state and federal levels and to recommend the list for Board of Directors approval at its February 11, 2009, meeting.

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ITEM # ACTION +7. OCTA AND CALTRANS LOSSAN CORRIDOR QUICK IMPROVEMENTS

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN (Linda Culp, SANDAG)

DISCUSSION

In July 2008, the OCTA Board of Directors finalized a study of 21 proposed quick improvements for the corridor ranging from better customer information at stations and on the Web to integrated fares and transfer policies. TAC members have been working on many of these and will report on their progress at the meeting. Agenda item 8 is an update on one of the 21 improvements.

8. UPDATE ON 511 EFFORTS FOR LOS ANGELES COUNTY (Anne Karna, Metro) INFORMATION

LA Metro is nearing completion of a 511 transportation information system, including passenger rail information for Los Angeles County. Metro will provide the TAC with a status report. This was one of the 21 quick improvements identified for the corridor.

9. UPDATE OF STATEWIDE RAIL PROCUREMENT AND OTHER STATE MATTERS (Lea Simpson, Caltrans)

DISCUSSION

Caltrans is preparing to issue a Request for Proposals for new rail equipment by June 30, 2009, a process that normally takes three to four years, using Proposition 1B funds. Additional equipment is being refurbished in order to add capacity to the system ahead of new equipment. Caltrans also will provide an update on the funding status of corridor projects and state budget as it relates to the intercity rail program.

10. UPDATE ON STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS AND RECENT STATE RAIL BOARD CHAIRS/VICE CHAIRS MEETING (Linda Culp, SANDAG;

Pete Rodgers, SLOCOG)

DISCUSSION

Staff will provide an update on recent joint agency efforts between LOSSAN, the Capitol Corridor, San Joaquin Valley Rail Committee, and Coast Rail Coordinating Council, including recent legislative visits in Sacramento, and the major items from the December 12, 2008, chairs and vice chairs meeting.

+11. CORRIDOR TRENDS (Jonathan Hutchison, Amtrak) DISCUSSION

The latest ridership, revenue, and on-time performance statistics will be discussed at the meeting.

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ITEM # ACTION

+12. FY 2010 CALTRANS PLANNING GRANT REQUESTS (Danny Veeh, SANDAG) DISCUSSION

Caltrans is currently inviting applications for FY 2010 transportation planning grants. There is $9.25 million in state and federal discretionary planning funds available statewide in FY 2009-10. The group will discuss LOSSAN projects that qualify for grants and decide whether to move forward with a grant submission.

+13. REVIEW FEBRUARY 11, 2009, DRAFT BOARD OF DIRECTORS AGENDA (Linda Culp, SANDAG)

REVIEW AND COMMENT

The TAC will review the draft agenda for the Board of Directors February 11, 2009, meeting.

14. TAC MEMBER UPDATES INFORMATION

15. NEXT MEETING APPROVE

The next TAC meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, 2009, at Metro in Los Angeles. Because of the need to coordinate with the findings from the LOSSAN Corridorwide Strategic Assessment, staff requests this meeting be moved to Wednesday, March 25, 2009.

+ next to an item indicates an attachment

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Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

January 28, 2009 AGENDA ITEM NO.:

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Action Requested: APPROVE

DECEMBER 2, 2008, MEETING MINUTES File Number 4000106

The LOSSAN Technical Advisory Committees (TAC) met for a meeting on December 2, 2008, in Los Angeles. In attendance were:

Jennifer Bergener, OCTA Patricia Chen, Metro Joanna Capelle, Metrolink Jay Fuhrman, Metro Darrell Johnson, OCTA Aileen Kennedy, Caltrans Steve McDowell, Amtrak Jessica Meaney, SCAG Michael Powers, SBCAG

Jack Rich, Amtrak

Rebecca Sanchez, Caltrans Roger Sanchez, Caltrans Ron Scolaro, OCTA Lea Simpson, Caltrans Joe Valdez, Caltrans Danny Veeh, SANDAG Jack Wilson, Amtrak Joe Yannuzzi, Amtrak

Via Telephone:

Linda Culp, SANDAG

Jonathan Hutchison, Amtrak Pete Rodgers, SLOCOG Mary Travis, VCTC Paul Dyson, RailPAC Rob Dayton, City of Santa Barbara

The major items discussed during the meeting are summarized as follows:

PUBLIC COMMENT

Paul Dyson (RailPAC) discussed the fact that fare box revenue is a dependable source of operating funds. He is asking the Committee to do everything it can to expedite the corridorwide strategic plan, particularly regarding improving connections at Metrolink stations.

APPROVAL OF THE OCTOBER 16, 2008, MEETING SUMMARY The minutes were approved with no changes.

OCTA AND CALTRANS LOSSAN QUICK IMPROVEMENTS IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

Linda Culp (SANDAG) discussed the corridor quick improvements implementation plan. The TAC provided updates on the progress on the implementation of each of the recommended quick improvements. A section has been added to the quick improvements table to reflect the next steps.

Darrell Johnson (OCTA) stated that the Metrolink Google trip planner went live; however, there are still a few kinks to work out. Jay Fuhrman (Metro) stated that Metro’s 511 system will go live in summer 2009. Metro will provide a presentation at the next LOSSAN TAC meeting. Mr. Fuhrman also discussed the Union Station central information booth quick improvement task and mentioned

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that staff will conduct a walking tour with Amtrak staff later in the month. Ms. Culp asked that TAC members continue to work on their particular items and report back at the next meeting.

LOSSAN CORRIDORWIDE STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT UPDATE

Mr. Johnson provided a status report and started by saying that surveys onboard Amtrak, Metrolink, and COASTER trains have been completed. The survey had 52 questions with an 80 percent response rate. The results will be shared with the TAC along with the final report. The upcoming telephone survey is divided into five different subregions: San Diego; two subregions in Orange County, Los Angeles; and one subregion for Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties.

Residents within ten miles of the rail corridor will be surveyed. In mid-December the draft report will be completed, which will include what was learned from onboard and telephone surveys. The modeling work will not be completed until the service alternatives have been identified by the project partners. Caltrans Division of Rail has indicated that some of the institutional issues should be developed early in the process.

UPDATE OF STATEWIDE RAIL PROCUREMENT AND OTHER STATE MATTERS

Lea Simpson (Caltrans) discussed that Caltrans is pursuing purchasing and refurbishing old rail equipment from New Jersey Transit to meet the immediate need for equipment. Once the sale is complete, it will take between 12-15 months before the cars will be in service. Caltrans is developing an integration plan on the most appropriate use for the equipment. Joanna Capelle (Metrolink) stated that the additional Metrolink cars will be used behind the locomotive for extra seating only, and they will not be used for boarding.

Ms. Simpson also discussed that a portion of Proposition 1A bond funds are set aside for intercity rail projects. Each of the three state corridors will receive $47.5 million by formula, with another

$47.5 million available for the California Transportation Commission (CTC) to allocate. Caltrans Division of Rail is recommending to the CTC to split the discretionary $47.5 million evenly among the corridors, which would result in approximately $60 million available for the Surfliner corridor.

Caltrans is also developing a “Ready For List” list of projects that are 12-18 months away from construction. This list could be used to select projects for Proposition 1A, Proposition 1B, or Economic Stimulus consideration. Ms. Culp requested that the LOSSAN TAC review and comment on the list as soon as possible.

CORRIDOR TRENDS

Jonathan Hutchison (Amtrak) discussed the September corridor trends. The drop in ridership after many months of increases is primarily the result of a softening economy. On the Surfliner, ridership has increased over the last year by less than 2 percent, while revenue has been slightly less than last year’s total. On-time Performance (OTP) was 79.2 percent for the entire corridor (82.1 percent North; 91.1 percent South).

Mr. Hutchison announced that Alex Kummant has resigned as the CEO of Amtrak. Joe Boardman is now interim CEO for one year while the Board of Directors conducts a search for a permanent CEO.

Amtrak is currently being funded through a Continuing Resolution, with the FY 08 appropriation of

$1.325 billion. The Continuing Resolution is in affect until March 6, 2009.

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7 LOSSAN CORRIDOR EARLY ACTION PROJECTS

Ms. Culp discussed the need for a LOSSAN corridor early action projects list. This list would be used to identify top projects for funding coming from Proposition 1A, the economic stimulus package, and the federal rail capital matching program. TAC members discussed a number of potential criteria for the list to help rank projects. Each of the LOSSAN member agencies were asked to submit their own lists to staff to compile for discussion at the January TAC meeting. Mr. Johnson stated that we add the Department of Transportation’s formula for construction as one of the criteria. Michael Powers (SBCAG) stated that the list made for the LOSSAN Board from a few years ago should be resurrected. Mr. Powers also added that we should include all of the STIP projects that have been delayed.

UPCOMING CHAIRS AND VICE CHAIRS MEETINGS

The second annual statewide intercity rail corridor Chairs/Vice Chairs meeting will take place on December 12, 2008, in Oakland. Pete Rodgers, SLOCOG, discussed the agenda, including a discussion on joint priorities and strategies, an intercity rail day at the capital, and the need for California representation on the Amtrak Board of Directors.

TAC MEMBER UPDATES

Metro announced that Measure R passed. Three percent of the $1.2 billion tax measure will be allocated for Metrolink, which is roughly $21 million per year.

Mr. Johnson announced that OCTA has finally acquired property at the Fullerton Station for a new parking structure. Darrell also stated that the construction has gone out for bid on the Service Expansion Plan for Metrolink, with bids due next week.

NEXT MEETING

The next LOSSAN TAC meeting is scheduled for January 20, 2009 (subsequently rescheduled for January 28, 2009), at the LA Metro Building. The next LOSSAN Board meeting is scheduled for February 11, 2009.

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TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

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Action Requested: RECOMMEND

FY 2010 LOSSAN OVERALL WORK PROGRAM File Number 4000106

FY 2009 Accomplishments

FY 2009 saw an increase in the level of joint activity with the other three state-supported rail boards, including statewide meetings and other events. The first California Intercity Rail Day was organized and held in Sacramento. An informational video was developed by the four rail agencies and presented to various groups and member agencies. LOSSAN’s first federal legislative visit was held in March 2008 in Washington, DC.

FY 2010 Work Program

The FY 2010 Draft LOSSAN Work Program will continue to include three main areas:

LOSSAN Administration and Support

For the past several years, administrative support for LOSSAN has been provided by SANDAG. Since 2004, voting member agencies have assisted by providing funds directly to SANDAG. In FY 2009, the budget for LOSSAN activities was approved by the Board of Directors at $61,000 and includes staff resources, conference calls, agenda preparation, staff and Board member travel, and advocacy.

In each of the last five years, the LOSSAN Board of Directors has approved the Technical Advisory Committee’s (TAC) recommendation to support this funding structure with the understanding that the structure would be revisited annually. Since FY 2007, this funding structure has been based on the number of votes on the Board. Staff recommends this structure continue in FY 2010 at the FY 2009 levels (Table 1).

The TAC is asked to discuss and consider a recommendation to the LOSSAN Board of Directors at its February 11, 2009, meeting.

LOSSAN Advocacy and Joint Agency Coordination

Past efforts on the state and federal side to advocate for increased passenger rail funding have been successful (e.g., Assembly Joint Resolution 18, Joint Rail Boards of Directors meetings, and

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Intercity Rail Day), and in particular, the work in coordination with the other intercity rail corridors should be highlighted. The Board has indicated its desire for these activities to continue in FY 2010.

Corridorwide Service Integration Planning

Staff has participated in both the quick improvements study and the strategic assessment for better integration of the corridor’s rail services. While the initial study is scheduled for completion in FY 2009, it is anticipated that work will continue in this area in FY 2010.

Other Activities

TAC members are asked to discuss other possible activities to be included in the work program for FY 2010.

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Table 1

LOSSAN MEMBER ASSESSMENTS – HISTORICAL (FY06-FY09) AND PROPOSED FOR FY 2010

Voting

Member Votes

on Board FY06 FY07 FY08 FY09 FY2010 PROPOSED Notes:

SLOCOG 1 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $6,000 $6,000

SBCAG 1 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $6,000 $6,000

VCTC 1 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $6,000 $6,000

Metro 2 $2,000 $8,000 $8,000 $10,000 $10,000 $2,000 inkind in FY10

OCTA 2 $5,000 $10,000 $10,000 $12,000 $12,000

Caltrans Rail 1 $5,000 $8,000 $8,000 $9,600 $9,600

SANDAG NCTD MTS

2 $15,000 $10,000 $10,000 $12,000 $12,000 Inkind

Total From Voting Members: $42,000 $51,000 $51,000 $61,000 $61,000

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TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

January 28, 2009

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

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Action Requested: DISCUSSION

LOSSAN CORRIDORWIDE STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT

UPDATE AND INITIAL SERVICE VISION File Number 4000106

Introduction

Last year, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), in cooperation with Caltrans, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), North County Transit District (NCTD), San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA), and the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency contracted with Wilbur Smith Associates to conduct a comprehensive strategic assessment for coordination and improvement of commuter and intercity rail services between Los Angeles and San Diego. The study also will consider the freight capacity needs between Los Angeles and San Diego and the impact and feasibility of proposed changes north and east of Los Angeles.

Table 1 outlines the major study tasks. To date, onboard and telephone surveys in the corridor have been completed; the corridor’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis has been developed; and an initial service vision has been reviewed by the Project Partners.

Consultant staff will present these findings at the TAC meeting.

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12 Table 1

LOSSAN CORRIDORWIDE STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT – MAJOR TASKS Task 1 – Project Management and Administration

General Project Staffing, Work Schedule and Coordination Task 2 – Data Collection

Review of previous studies, plans, and programming documents; funding structure for corridor services and ownership; conduct market analysis, traveler information, baseline operations and modeling report; and complete Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) Analysis.

Task 3 – Alternatives and Planning

Assessment of opportunities to improve, expand, integrate, and coordinate passenger service;

opportunities to improve connections between services; opportunities to reduce travel time;

customer service improvements; and analysis of impacts of service improvements.

Task 4 – Capital and Operations and Maintenance Costs

Develop order of magnitude capital cost estimates for the infrastructure and services necessary to implement service options developed in Task 3; preparation of conceptual operations and maintenance costs.

Task 5 – Organizational and Institutional Structure

Identify and evaluate options for public sector organization and management structures needed to more effectively deliver rail passenger service along the entire LOSSAN corridor; identify options for state administration compared to local or regional; identify and assess institutional opportunities for expanded or additional coordination between rail services; identify constraints.

Task 6 – Option Summary, Evaluation, and Ten-Year Phasing Plan

Summarize options to support service goals for enhancement, improvement, integration and/or changes in management structures; propose evaluation criteria to be applied to each option in summary comparative matrix; interim report for review and comment; develop 10-year phasing plan including steps necessary for implementation of the preferred options.

Project partners will be required to develop a consensus on the final recommendations, final draft and final reports.

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TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

13 January 28, 2009

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

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Action Requested: RECOMMEND

LOSSAN CORRIDOR EARLY ACTION PROJECTS File Number 4000106

Despite current economic conditions, new funding opportunities for rail projects are expected over the next few months at both the state and federal levels. At the state level, Proposition 1A specifies

$950 million for urban feeder rail services. The Pacific Surfliner corridor is guaranteed a minimum of

$47.5 million.

At the federal level, HR 2095, passed and signed in October 2008, includes both a federal rail capital program and a congested rail corridors program. The LOSSAN corridor would be eligible for these funds. The House released its version of a second economic stimulus package, including $800 million for Amtrak capital projects and $300 million for intercity rail projects. The Senate has indicated its willingness to include higher levels but to date, no legislation has been introduced.

At its December 2, 2008, meeting, the TAC discussed using the following criteria to compile a list of projects that could be ready to go over the short-term:

• Project description

• County

• Benefit (e.g., capacity, reliability, safety, customer focus)

• Ready to Go (6 months, 12 months, 18 months)

• Total Cost

• Available funding and sources

• Funding shortfall

Staff has compiled a draft list of short-term projects for the TAC’s discussion and possible recommendation to the Board of Directors at its February 11, 2009, meeting (Table 1). Sources for this table include the draft economic stimulus list compiled by the Caltrans Division of Rail, State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), the LOSSAN Corridorwide Strategic Business Plan (2007), and individual member agencies.

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Table 1

LOSSAN CORRIDOR EARLY ACTION PROJECTS

D R A F T

Project County Benefit Ready

To Go

Total Cost ($M)

Available Funds ($M)*

Request ($M)

Funding Shortfall ($M)

Source(s)

Track and Signal Upgrades All Capacity 2009 $30.0 $30.0 Econ Stim

LOSSAN Quick Improvements All Enhancements 2009 $2.0 $2.0

Quick Improvements Study

Positive Train Control All Safety 2009 $9.9 $310.0

Econ Stim, Member Agencies

Rehabilitation of Track, Signal,

Structure All Safety 2009 $30.0 Econ Stim

LA-Fullerton Triple Track Los Angeles Capacity 2009 $70.0 Econ Stim, STIP

LAUS Station Track Los Angeles Capacity 2009 $21.8 $35.1 Econ Stim

CP Raymer to CP Bernson

Double Track Los Angeles Capacity 2011 $47.0 $47.0 LOSSAN SBP

Van Nuys North Platform Los Angeles Capacity 2011 $26.0 $26.0 LOSSAN SBP

LA Run Thru Tracks Los Angeles Capacity 2012+ LOSSAN SBP

LAUS Passenger Ramps Los Angeles Capacity 2011 LOSSAN SBP

LA-Fullerton Grade

Separations Los Angeles Safety STIP

Signal Relocation Los Angeles Safety 2009 $2.3 $6.4 Econ Stim

Fullerton Parking Structure Orange Capacity 2009 $41.0 $41.0 OCTA

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Table 1

D R A F T

To Go

Total Cost ($M)

Request ($M)

Source(s)

Placentia Avenue Orange Safety 2009 $57.0 $57.0 OCTA

Laguna Niguel to San Juan Capistrano Track

Improvements Orange Safety 2009 $48.0 $48.0 OCTA

San Clemente Pedestrian

Crossings Orange Safety 2009 $2.0 $2.0 OCTA

CP Cardiff to CP Craven

Double Track San Diego Capacity 2012 $43.6 $4.4 STIP

San Luis Rey River Bridge and

Second Track San Diego Capacity 2012 $57.5 $3.0 STIP

Poinsettia Station Thru-Track San Diego Capacity 2010 $8.0 $8.0 Econ Stim

Oceanside Stub Track San Diego Capacity 2010 $9.0 $9.0 Econ Stim

False Bay Crossover San Diego Capacity 2009 $2.5 $2.5 Econ Stim

Santa Margarita Bridge Replacement and Second

Track San Diego Capacity 2009 $40.0 $16.2

Econ Stim, STIP, Prop 1B

San Dieguito Bridge Replacement and Second

Track San Diego Capacity 2012 $71.5 $<1 STIP

Del Mar Fairgrounds Platform San Diego Capacity 2012 SANDAG

CP Carl to CP Farr Double

Track San Diego Capacity 2012 $24.5 Amtrak funds?

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Table 1

D R A F T

To Go

Total Cost ($M)

Request ($M)

Source(s)

CP San Onofre to CP Pulgas

Double Track San Diego Capacity 2012 $48.6 $30.0 Prop 1B

Sorrento-Miramar Phase II Curve Realignment and

Double Track San Diego Capacity 2012+ $98.7 STIP

San Mateo Creek Bridge San Diego Rehab 2009 $12.0 $12.0 Econ Stim

Railroad Crosstie Renewal San Diego Rehab 2009 $2.0 $2.0 Econ Stim

Del Mar Bluffs Stabilization

III San Diego Safety 2011 $4.6 STIP

Sorrento-Miramar Alignment San Diego Safety 2009 $2.0 $2.0 Econ Stim

Encinitas Pedestrian Crossings San Diego Safety 2009 $19.0 $19.0

Timber Crosstie Replacement San Luis Obispo Rehab 2009 $2.5 $2.5 Econ Stim

Track Upgrades San Luis Obispo Rehab 2011 $50.0 $50.0 LOSSAN SBP

Waldorf Siding Santa Barbara Capacity 2009 $15.0 $15.0 Econ Stim, LOSSAN SBP

Tangair Siding Santa Barbara Capacity 2009 $22.0 $22.0 Econ Stim, LOSSAN SBP

Ortega Siding Santa Barbara Capacity 2011 $30.0 $30.0 Econ Stim, LOSSAN SBP

Narlon, Honda, Concepcion

Island CTC Santa Barbara Capacity 2011 $30.0 $30.0 Econ Stim, LOSSAN SBP

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17 Table 1

D R A F T

To Go

Total Cost ($M)

Request ($M)

Source(s)

Capitan Siding Santa Barbara Capacity 2011 $10.0 $10.0 Econ Stim, LOSSAN SBP

Simi to Strathern Double Track Ventura Capacity 2010 $37.0 $37.0 Econ Stim, LOSSAN SBP

Leesdale Siding Extension Ventura Capacity 2010 $15.0 $15.0 Econ Stim, LOSSAN SBP

SCRRA Upgrades Ventura Safety $19.8 STIP

SCRRA Ventura Sealed

Corridor Ventura Safety $8.0 STIP

Projects in bold were included on the previous LOSSAN immediate projects list (2006).

* Some of these state funds are currently on hold.

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Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

18 January 28, 2009

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

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ORANGE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (OCTA) AND CALTRANS LOSSAN CORRIDOR QUICK

IMPROVEMENTS IMPLEMENTATION PLAN File Number 4000106

Introduction

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), in partnership with the California Department of Transportation, Division of Rail, contracted with Wilbur Smith Associates to conduct a study to explore opportunities to improve rail service and develop near-term improvements as the first step towards a comprehensive, integrated rail passenger network within the LOSSAN rail corridor. The OCTA Board of Directors finalized the study in July 2008.

The final report lists 21 concepts with recommended actions, as well as priorities for implementation within a year. The LOSSAN Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) categorized these recommendations based on three main criteria: (1) level needed for action, (2) level of funding, and (3) relative time frame (Table 1).

TAC members have volunteered to coordinate work on one or more of these improvements. Table 1 also shows progress notes to date. TAC members are asked to provide additional updates at the meeting.

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Table 1

SELECTED EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR QUICK IMPROVEMENTS AND STATUS Required Level Relative Cost Relative Timetable

Report

# Improvement Staff Agency Board

Special Task

Force Low Med Hi Short Mid Long TAC Agency Customer Information

1 Consolidated LOSSAN

Corridor Timetable X X X SANDAG

Progress Notes:

8/08: Need to discuss maintenance issues.

10/08: SANDAG did not receive funds for a grant application submitted to Caltrans or potential funds for the research tasks from FTA’s Transit Cooperative Research Program.

12/08: A placeholder was included in SANDAG’s Economic Stimulus list for implementation of this and other corridor quick improvements.

1 On-line Trip Planner X X X OCTA

Progress Notes:

8/08: Assess Google Transit Capabilities for corridor (OCTA bus services already available; Metrolink is investigating;

SANDAG to check relative to Regional 511 System)

Need to discuss maintenance issues/updates; need to develop budget.

10/08: OCTA provided status report at TAC meeting

5 Electronic Passenger

Information System (EPIS) X X X TAC Progress Notes:

8/08: Since May, staff has conducted monthly conference calls (LOSSAN, Metrolink, Amtrak, Caltrans, SLOCOG) to discuss implementation and integration issues.

Need to check implementation at COASTER stations.

1/09: Staff continues to coordinate, Amtrak currently investigating TWITTER text messaging for Amtrak train status;

potential for state funds for integration work at joint stations to be on hold.

6 Amtrak Distribution of Metrolink Information at

Joint Stations X X X Amtrak

Progress Notes:

8/08: Formal arrangement between operators/agencies needed in order to provide integrated information.

Further discussion needed in terms of level of info and maintenance.

7 On-Train Information X X X Amtrak

Progress Notes:

8/08: Need to define what level of information is needed and how frequent to provide.

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Table 1

Report

Special Task

Force Low Med Hi Short Mid Long TAC Agency 8 Orange County Station

Signage X X X OCTA/

Caltrans Progress Notes:

8/08: Additional signage has been installed showing which track to use, other information.

9 San Diego County Station

Signage X X

(OTC) X X

SANDAG/

NCTD/

8/08: Staff level can discuss merits of static v. real-time message sign. (considered to be a short-term improvement before EPIS)

Discuss combining trailblazing program (“Train” signs approaching station instead of individual Metrolink, Amtrak) Oceanside Transit Center (OTC) may warrant special task force

10 Central Information Booth at Los Angeles Union

Station X X X Metro

Progress Notes:

8/08: Assess possibility of provided same information at each of the three locations, not just at a central booth.

Need formal information sharing agreement at each location.

12/08: Metro and Amtrak staff conducted walk-thru at station.

17 Freeway Changeable Message Signs Used to Promote Train Travel

X X X Caltrans

Progress Notes:

8/08: Check how this is working in the Bay Area.

11/08: Rail staff inquired with Caltrans operations and needs some additional details from the TAC in terms of the type of messages, etc, before proceeding.

19 511 Information X X X Metro/

SANDAG Progress Notes:

8/08: Investigate Google trip planner. (Same as #1 above) 1/09: Metro staff to provide update at TAC meeting.

Rail Operations:

2 Rail Connections X X X SA

Progress Notes:

8/08: Review in Strategic Assessment, including market research (current and future markets).

Access relative to Rail2Rail program.

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Table 1

Report

Special Task

Force Low Med Hi Short Mid Long TAC Agency 4 Additional Orange County

Midday Service X X X X SA

Progress Notes:

8/08: Consider an exercise with a "blank canvas" rail corridor - how would services be designed from scratch?

12/08: SA will develop a service vision for review by the TAC and Board of Directors.

12 Mutual Aid Agreement X X X Tbd

Progress Notes:

8/08: Need to identify components of a formal agreement (currently, the only formal agreement is between NCTD and SCRRA); Consider including in Rail2Rail agreement

20 Minimize Dwell Times X X X Amtrak

Progress Notes:

8/08: Amtrak is currently assessing recovering times.

Another solution might be to continue the station ambassador program to assist passengers and an informational campaign regarding how to handle baggage.

Connecting Transit / Ticketing

3 Joint Ticketing X X X Tbd

Progress Notes:

8/08: Additional technical details and costing should be analyzed.

11 Impact of Schedule

Changes on Local Transit X X X SANDAG

Progress Notes:

8/08: Rail infrastructure drives headways; bus schedules are timed.

Consider a further analysis of bus-rail connections in the corridor.

14 Free Transfers X X X Tbd

Progress Notes:

8/08: Need further analysis on budget impacts.

15 Better Airport Connections X X X X SANDAG Progress Notes:

8/08: Use San Diego work as potential pilot for a larger application.

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22 Table 1

Report

Special Task

Force Low Med Hi Short Mid Long TAC Agency 16 Amtrak Bus and Metrolink

Coordination X Amtrak/

8/08: Caltrans and Amtrak will discuss this further.

13 Joint Marketing X X X Amtrak

Progress Notes:

8/08: TAC recommends regular quarterly meetings between corridor agencies marketing staff.

10/08: Amtrak does not have staff support for additional quarterly meetings at this time.

18 WiFi at Stations X X X SLOCOG

Progress Notes:

8/08: Assess one system between operators.

12/08: SLOCOG has contacted Capitol Corridor, whose research has raised questions regarding technical details and whether or not advertising as a revenue source is workable.

CCJPA also investigating on-board WiFi and we will follow that effort for the Surfliners.

SA = LOSSAN Corridorwide Strategic Assessment (underway).

Tbd – to be determined/longer-term strategy needed.

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Date January 20, 2009 ^From Jonathan Hutchison

To LOSSAN Board Members ^Department Government Affairs

Subject Amtrak Update

cc

The following is an update on issues related to the Pacific Surfliner and Coast Starlight, along with general information about Amtrak.

Pacific Surfliner Performance

October Pacific Surfliner ridership was 211, 768 (-3.2%), and revenue was $3,677,653 (+3.1%).

Endpoint OTP was 81.4% (91.1%N; 82.2%S). November ridership was 228,224 (+0.8%);

revenue was $4,147,517 (-2.7%). Monthly endpoint OTP was 82.0% (90.2%N; 80.1%S).

December ridership was 195,887 (-8.1%); revenue was $3,551,818 (-5.3%). Endpoint OTP for the month was 78.2% (93.5%N; 86.8%S).

Coast Starlight Performance

In October, the Coast Starlight carried 32,738 passengers (+22.8%), and passenger revenue for the month was $2,760,324 (+25.4%). November’s ridership was 35,122 (+15.5%), and revenue was $2,674,405 (+8.4%). Finally, December ridership on the route was 38,653 (+20.0%); revenue was $3,226,269 (+13.9%).

Endpoint OTP for the Oct-Dec period was 54.8%, 51.7%, and 58.1%, respectively.

Economic Stimulus and Amtrak

There has been considerable attention given to President Obama’s intention to invest in infrastructure as part of a larger strategy to stabilize the economy and stimulate job creation. It’s likely intercity rail will benefit from this approach, although it’s impossible to quantify the infusion at this time. Amtrak recently testified that it had $410M in “immediate capital needs,”

and ~$7.2B in necessary capital requirements over the next three fiscal years. The United States Conference of Mayors has identified $1.09B in intercity-rail related investments, and the States

NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER CORPORATION

530 Water Street 5^th Floor, Oakland, CA 94607 Tel. 510.238.2671 Fax. 510.238.4397 (ATS: 764)

Message

Agenda Item #11, LOSSAN, January 28, 2009

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Page 2

for Passenger Rail Coalition has called for a $1.612B investment in the mode’s shorter term capital needs.

The House version of the stimulus bill contains $800M for Amtrak capital expenditures and an additional $300M for state capital investment. By comparison, the bill contains $30B for bridges and highways, $8.9B for public transit, and $3B for aviation. It hoped the Senate’s version of the bill will contain more robust rail funding.

Amtrak Governance

On November 15, Alex Kummant resigned as Amtrak’s President and Chief Executive Officer.

Later that month on November 25, Amtrak’s Board of Directors appointed Joe Boardman as President and CEO. Mr. Boardman was formally the Administrator for the Federal Railroad Administration, and served on the Amtrak Board of Directors as the representative for former DOT Secretary Mary Peters. Mr. Boardman will serve as President and CEO for a one-year period, during which time the Board will conduct a search for a permanent appointment. It’s expected that Mr. Boardman will be considered for the permanent position.

Finally, on December 19, then President-Elect Obama nominated Rep. Ray LaHood (IL-R) to become Secretary of the Department of Transportation.

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TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

12

FY 2010 CALTRANS PLANNING GRANT REQUESTS File Number 4000106

Each year the Caltrans Division of Transportation Planning offers grants for transportation planning projects throughout the state. There is an estimated $9.25 million in state and federal discretionary planning funds available in FY 2010. LOSSAN can apply for grants as a sub-recipient using one of the LOSSAN member agencies as a pass-through agency. Last year LOSSAN applied for two grants, Integrated Transit Timetables and Customer Information at Rail Stations and Rail Planning 101, both of which were not awarded. The Caltrans planning grants offer a great opportunity to help fund some of the projects that were identified in the LOSSAN Quick Improvements Study as well as the Strategic Assessment.

The LOSSAN TAC will be asked to propose and discuss ideas for grant applications. Attached is a Grant Summary Chart that outlines the general goals and requirements for each grant program (Attachment 1). Additional information about Caltrans planning grants can be found on the Caltrans Web site at http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/tpp/grants.html.

Attachment: 1. Grant Summary Chart

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Transportation Planning Grant Summary Chart G

RANT

F

UND

S

OURCE

P

URPOSE

W

HO

M

AY

A

PPLY

L

OCAL

M

ATCH

Environmental Justice:

Context- Sensitive Planning

State Highway Account Budget

$3 million Grant Cap

$250,000

Promote community involvement in planning to improve mobility, access, and safety while

promoting economic opportunity, equity, environmental protection, and affordable housing for low-income, minority, and Native American

communities.

The following may apply directly or as a sub-recipient:

• Metropolitan Planning Organizations and Regional Transportation Planning Agencies

• Cities and Counties

• Transit Agencies

• Native American Tribal Governments The following may apply only as a sub-recipient:

• Universities and Community Colleges

• Community-Based Organizations

• Non-Profit Organizations (501.C.3)

•

Public Entities**

10% of the grant amount requested (in non-State and non-federal funds).

Up to half of the 10%

match can be in- kind*. Refer to sample match calculation on Page 14.

Community- Based Transportation

Planning

State Highway Account Budget

$3 million Grant Cap

$300,000

Fund coordinated transportation and land use planning that promotes public engagement, livable communities, and a sustainable

transportation system which includes mobility, access, and safety.

The following may apply directly or as a sub-recipient:

• Native American Tribal Governments The following may apply only as a sub-recipient:

•

Public Entities**

20% of the grant amount requested (in non-State and non-federal funds).

Up to half of the 20%

match can be in- kind*. Refer to sample match calculation on Page 24.

Partnership Planning

FHWA***

State Planning and Research, Part 1 Budget Federal funds

$1,000,000 Grant Cap

$300,000

Fund transportation planning studies of multi-regional and statewide

significance in partnership with Caltrans.

The following may only apply as an applicant:

The following may apply only as a sub-recipient:

• Native American Tribal Governments

• Public Entities**

20% of grant amount requested (in non-federal funds or an in-kind*

contribution). The entire minimum 20%

local match may be in the form of an in- kind contribution.

Additional local funds above the minimum local match are desired.

Refer to sample match calculation on Page 37.

Attachment 1

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G

RANT

F

UND

S

OURCE

P

URPOSE

W

HO

M

AY

A

PPLY

L

OCAL

M

ATCH

Statewide Transit Planning

Studies

FTA***

Section 5304 Budget Federal funds

$1,400,000 Grant Cap

$300,000

Fund studies on transit issues having statewide or multi-regional significance to assist in reducing congestion.

11.47% of the grant amount requested (in non-federal funds or an in-kind*

contribution). The entire minimum 11.47% local match may be in the form of an in-kind

contribution.

Transit Technical

Planning Assistance

FTA***

Section 5304 Budget Federal funds

$700,000 Grant Cap

$100,000

Fund public

transportation planning studies in rural or small urban areas of

California (transit service area with population of 100,000 or less).

11.47% of the grant amount requested (in non-federal funds or an in-kind*

contribution). The entire minimum 11.47% local match may be in the form of an in-kind

contribution.

Transit Professional Development

FTA***

Section 5304 Budget Federal funds

$150,000 Grant Cap

$50,000

Fund student internship opportunities in transit planning at public transit agencies.

•

Public Entities**

11.47% of the grant amount requested (in non-federal funds or an in-kind*

contribution). The entire minimum 11.47% local match may be in the form of an in-kind

contribution.

* In-kind contribution can include a documented, quantified amount of equipment, supplies, or other tangible resources, space, or staff time.

** Public entity includes the State, the Regents of the University of California, a county, city, district, public authority, public agency, and any other political subdivision or public corporation in the State. (Government Code Section 811.2)

***FHWA is the Federal Highway Administration. FTA is the Federal Transit Administration.

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TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

13

Action Requested: REVIEW AND COMMENT

REVIEW FEBRUARY 11, 2009, DRAFT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS AGENDA File Number 4000106

TAC members will review the draft agenda for the Board of Directors February 11, 2009, meeting (Attachment 1).

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LOSSAN RAIL CORRIDOR AGENCY JOINT POWERS BOARD

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

29

ITEM # TAC

RECOMMENDATION 1. CHAIR’S REPORT

Welcome and Introductions

2. PUBLIC COMMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS

Speakers are limited to three minutes each.

3. NOVEMBER 12, 2008, MEETING MINUTES APPROVE

4. OCTA AND CALTRANS LOSSAN CORRIDOR QUICK IMPROVEMENTS IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

DISCUSSION

5. LOSSAN CORRIDORWIDE STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT UPDATE AND INITIAL SERVICE VISION BOARD WORKSHOP

DISCUSSION

6. LOSSAN CORRIDOR EARLY ACTION PROJECTS APPROVE

7. UPDATE ON STATE ITEMS: STATE BUDGET, LOSSAN CORRIDOR PROJECTS, JOINT AGENCY EFFORTS

DISCUSSION/POSSIBLE ACTION

8. STATUS OF FEDERAL LEGISLATION DISCUSSION/POSSIBLE ACTION

9. CORRIDOR TRENDS DISCUSSION

10. FY 2010 LOSSAN OVERALL WORK PLAN APPROVE

11. BOARD MEMBER UPDATES INFORMATION

12. NEXT MEETING APPROVE