Title VI Program Limited English Proficiency Plan · Circular 4702.1B. en Franklin Transit’s...

2016 – 2019

Title VI Program &

Limited English Proficiency Plan

Adopted by the BFT Board of Directors May 12th, 2016

General Manager: Gloria Boyce

Interim Administrative Services: Kevin Hebdon

Interim Operations Manager: Katherine Ostrom

Maintenance, Facilities & Special Projects: Jerry Otto

Interim Human Resources Manager: Christine DeVere

Planning & Service Development Manager Tony Kalmbach

Marketing & Customer Service Manager Christy Watts

Rideshare Manager Terry DeJuan

Ben Franklin Transit

1000 Columbia Park Trail

Richland WA, 99352

(509) 734-5100

BFT operates its programs without regard to race, color and national origin. To receive

additional information on BFT’s discrimination obligations including our complaint

procedures please contact us at (509) 734-5107.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 3

TITLE VI PROGRAM ................................................................................................................ 4

I. POLICY STATEMENT AND AUTHORITIES ..................................................................................... 4

II. ORGANIZATION AND GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................................................... 4

III. PROGRAM AREA RESPONSIBILITIES .......................................................................................... 5

i. Data Collection ........................................................................................................ 5

ii. Title VI Program ...................................................................................................... 5

iii. Service and Fare Change Analysis ........................................................................... 5

iv. Capital Projects ....................................................................................................... 7

v. Information Dissemination ..................................................................................... 7

vi. Requirements to Provide Assistance to Sub-recipients & Monitor Compliance ..... 7

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROCESS, COMMENTS & COMPLAINTS .............................................. 8

I. POLICY STATEMENT AND PURPOSE .......................................................................................... 8

II. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROCESSES .......................................................................................... 8

III. GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT PROCEDURES ............................................................................... 9

IV. PROTECTION FROM RETRIBUTION ......................................................................................... 10

V. TITLE VI COMPLIANT PROCEDURE ......................................................................................... 10

2013-2016 REVIEW .............................................................................................................. 12

I. GENERAL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 12

II. TRANSIT PROVIDER SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................... 12

i. Demographic Maps and Chart .............................................................................. 12

ii. Service Standards and Policies .............................................................................. 14

iii. Assessment of Compliance by Grantees ............................................................... 18

iv. Other Areas of Consideration ................................................................................ 19

FARE CHANGES .................................................................................................................... 19

I. FARE CHANGES IMPLEMENTED ............................................................................................. 19

SERVICE CHANGES ............................................................................................................... 20

I. MAJOR SERVICE CHANGES IMPLEMENTED .............................................................................. 20

LEVEL OF SERVICE ................................................................................................................ 20

I. QUALITY OF SERVICE .......................................................................................................... 20

II. PROGRAM OF PROJECTS ...................................................................................................... 21

ATTACHMENT A Limited English Proficiency Plan ................................................................. 27

ATTACHMENT B Title VI Complaint Procedures .................................................................... 39

ATTACHMENT C Title VI Assistance Forms ............................................................................ 41

1 Ben Franklin Transit

ATTACHMENT D List of Transit-Related Title VI Investigations, Complaints, and Lawsuits ................................................................................................................... 47

ATTACHMENT E Table Depicting Minority Representation on Committees and Councils ....... 48

ATTACHMENT F Service Standards ....................................................................................... 53

ATTACHMENT G Service Policies .......................................................................................... 55

ATTACHMENT H Fixed Route Facilities Distribution .............................................................. 61

ATTACHMENT I Demographic Profile and Travel Patterns..................................................... 62

ATTACHMENT J Requirement to Monitor Transit Service ..................................................... 68

ATTACHMENT K Major Service Change, Disproportionate Burden and Disparate Impact Policies ..................................................................................................................... 81

ATTACHMENT L Board of Director Approvals ....................................................................... 83

ATTACHMENT M Fleet Summary ......................................................................................... 87

TABLES

Table 1 - 2014 Rider Satisfaction Survey Racial Breakdown ....................................................................... 13 Table 2 – 2014 Population Percentages by Race for Benton and Franklin County .................................... 13 Table 3 – 2014 Population Percentages by Income for Benton and Franklin County (U.S. Census) .......... 14 Table 4 - Load Factor Standard by Bus Type ............................................................................................... 14 Table 5 - Weekday Performance Quarterly Breakdown ............................................................................. 15 Table 6 - Population within 0.5 Miles of Fixed Route Services ................................................................... 16 Table 7 - Transit Center Amenities.............................................................................................................. 16 Table 8 – Park & Ride Amenities ................................................................................................................. 17 Table 9 – Amenities by City ......................................................................................................................... 17 Table 10 – Program of Projects Timeline .................................................................................................... 22

MAPS

Map A - BFT PTBA ....................................................................................................................................... 23 Map B - BFT Service 1/2 Mile Buffer ........................................................................................................... 24 Map C - BFT Prosser Service 1/2 Mile Buffer .............................................................................................. 25 Map D - Finley Taxi Feeder Pick-Up Locations ............................................................................................ 26


INTRODUCTION

BFT has prepared this Title VI Program to demonstrate compliance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, in accordance with the requirements of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Circular 4702.1B. Ben Franklin Transit’s (BFT’s) commitment to meeting the requirements of Title VI and Environmental Justice guidance is reflected in the agency’s planning, public involvement processes, decision-making, and general way of conducting business. Additionally, BFT operates its programs and services in compliance with Executive Order 2898, "Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low Income Populations", Executive Order 13166, "Improving Access to Service for Persons with Limited English Proficiency" and the Federal Department of Transportation’s (DOT's) guidance to recipients pursuant to both Executive Orders. BFT is a Public Transportation Benefit Area (PTBA) established and operated in accordance with Chapter 36.57A of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). BFT is a municipal corporation, which provides public transportation services in a 616 square mile area located in Benton and Franklin Counties. The area includes all of the cities of Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, West Richland, Benton City, Prosser and certain unincorporated areas of Benton and Franklin County. The PTBA contains a population of approximately 246,149 in 2014 (Washington State Financial Management, Forecasting and Research Division). BFT was formed May 11, 1981, when the voters in the service area voted to levy a 0.3% sales tax to support public transit with a 64% majority. The Dial-A-Ride system was started January 1, 1982 by contract with the Benton Franklin Developmental Center, and BFT assumed the operation of the Dial-A-Ride system January 1, 1985. The Vanpool service was initiated in September 1982 under a contract with the Benton-Franklin Council of Governments (BFCOG), and BFT assumed Vanpool operations on January 1, 1984. On November 4, 1997 the voters of Benton City and Prosser elected to be annexed to the Benton Franklin PTBA (BFT), with a 62% majority. Service was contracted with the City of Prosser for the communities of Prosser and Benton City using their Prosser Rural Transit system. In January 1999, BFT assumed the Prosser and Benton City operations. On May 15, 2001 a sales tax proposition of 0.6% was voted on. On March 12, 2002 the voters of Benton and Franklin Counties approved the sales tax proposition of 0.3%. On April 26, 2005 the voters of Finley elected to be annexed to BFT. BFT’s operation is accounted for under a single enterprise fund, which uses the same accrual accounting method as private enterprise. BFT has no sub-recipients and does not pass FTA funds through to sub-recipients.


TITLE VI PROGRAM

BFT’s mission, as adopted by the Board of Directors in 2006, is to provide exceptional and cost-effective transportation services that consistently exceed customer expectations while promoting the principles and practices of livable communities and sustainable development. A key component of BFT’s mission is to strive for diversity. Diversity is the appreciation and respect for different characteristics of individuals and groups that make them unique and able to offer different perspectives, skills and talents. BFT management and staff bolster our mission statement in regards to diversity by recognizing the differences in others for the betterment of the organization, accepting that a diversity of opinion is welcomed and encouraged by the organization, ensuring that BFT seeks opinion from all segments of staff, customer base, and community as well as taking proactive measures to recruit, hire, and promote a diverse workforce. The updated 2016 Title VI Program outlines how BFT will meet its mission while ensuring that programs and services operate without discrimination, and that marginalized populations receive the level of quality service that is expected.

I. Policy Statement and Authorities

BFT operates its programs and services without regard to race, color, or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other applicable laws. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 states: "No person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance." BFT is committed to complying with the requirements of Title VI in all of its federally-funded programs and activities, and will monitor its activities for compliance with all guidelines, including analysis and reporting requirements.

II. Organization and General Responsibilities

BFT’s General Manager is authorized to ensure compliance with the provisions of BFT’s policy of nondiscrimination and the law. Grants, programs, activities compliance and Title VI coordination will be performed under the authority of the General Manager. Staff will be responsible to monitor compliance efforts, perform environmental justice analysis for major service and fare changes, prepare analyses, maintain demographic databases, provide information to Limited English Proficient (LEP) populations, and keep the public engaged. Staff will also be responsible to follow the Title VI complaint procedure when such a complaint is received, including maintaining a log of complaints and investigating complaints that may arise. Investigation may require consultation and coordination with other agencies.


III. Program Area Responsibilities

i. Data Collection

BFT will gather and analyze data on race, national origin, language spoken, gender, and economic status of participants in and beneficiaries of transit service and programs. This includes census and traffic analysis zone data as well as available BFT survey data.

ii. Title VI Program

Every three years, BFT prepares a review of its compliance with the Title VI requirements as outlined in FTA Circular 4702.1B. This document will outline BFT’s Title VI program as well as reviewing activities over the three-year period, demonstrating compliance with FTA requirements. This analysis will be submitted to FTA within established timeframes. BFT notifies the public of Title VI protections using the following notice text:

BFT operates its programs and service without regard to race, color, or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other applicable laws. Persons who feel they have been subjected to discrimination because of race, color, or national origin may file a complaint with BFT. A complaint must be filed in writing within 180 days of knowledge regarding a possible discriminatory act. Complaints should be addressed to BFT, Title VI Program, 1000 Columbia Park Trail Richland, WA 99352. For more information or to receive information in another language, please call 509-735-5100. The notice is published at the BFT Administrative Offices, on the BFT website, in print publications on-board buses, and at Passenger Service Offices. It can be translated on the website and through translation services via the Passenger Service phone line at Three Rivers Customer Service Center or through Google Translator.

iii. Service and Fare Change Analysis

a) Overview

According to the stipulations outlined in FTA Circular 4702.1B §4, Chap.4-10, BFT will prepare a Title VI/ Environmental Justice equity analysis, where applicable, of all major service and fare changes using current FTA guidance. This documentation will be submitted to FTA as well as kept on file at BFT. The analysis will evaluate the proposed changes and their impacts on minority and low income populations within the BFT service area, including discussion of outreach and public involvement strategies and activities used to involve and inform minority, low income, and limited English speaking populations throughout the decision-making process. Service Change and Fare Change equity analysis will be conducted when said changes exceed the quantitative threshold outlined in in BFT’s Disproportionate Burden and Discriminatory Impact Policy.


b) Major Service Change, Disproportionate Burden and Discriminatory Impact Policies

The requirement for this policy comes from FTA Circular 4702.1B, "Title VI Requirements and Guidelines for Federal Transit Administration Recipients" which became effective October 1, 2012. The Circular requires any FTA recipient that operates 50 or more fixed route vehicles in peak service and serving a population of 200,000 or greater to evaluate any fare change and any major service change at the planning and programming stages to determine whether those changes have a discriminatory impact and or disproportionate impact. BFT has more than 50 vehicles in fixed routed service and we are serving an area that exceeds 200,000 in population. Therefore the following policy will be followed:

BFT Major Service Change Policy

A major service change is defined as any change in service on any individual route that would add or eliminate more than 20% of the route revenue miles or twenty percent of the route revenue hours. All major service changes will be subject to an equity analysis which includes an analysis of adverse effects. An adverse effect is defined as a geographical or time-based reduction in service which includes but is not limited to: span of service changes, frequency changes, route segment elimination, re-routing, or route elimination.

BFT Disproportionate Burden Policy

The purpose of this policy is to establish a threshold which identifies when the adverse effects of a major service change or any fare change disproportionately affects low-income populations. If the impact of a major service change proposal or any fare change proposal requires a low-income population to receive benefits 20% less or to bear adverse effects 20% more than those benefits or adverse effects received or borne by the non-minority population, that impact will be considered a disproportionate burden. Disproportionate burden on routes with either span of service changes and/or frequency changes will be determined by analyzing all routes with such changes together. Disproportionate burden on routes with segment elimination, re-routing, or route elimination will be determined on a route by route basis.

BFT Disparate Impact Policy

The purpose of this policy is to establish a threshold which identifies when adverse effects of a major service change or any fare change disproportionately affects members of a group identified by race, color, or national origin. If the impact of a major service change proposal or any fare change proposal requires a minority population to receive benefits 20% less or to bear adverse effects 20% more than those benefits or adverse effects received or borne by the non-minority population, that impact will be considered a disparate impact. If BFT finds a potential disparate impact or disproportionate burden, the agency will take steps to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts, and then reanalyze the modified service plan to determine whether the impacts were removed. If BFT chooses not to alter the proposed changes, the agency may implement


the service or fare change if there is substantial legitimate justification for the change AND the agency can show that there are no alternatives that would have less of an impact on the minority population and would still accomplish the agency’s legitimate program goals.

iv. Capital Projects

BFT will consult with the FTA to ensure that the appropriate level of environmental analysis for proposed capital projects is consistent with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). When a categorical exclusion, environmental assessment, or environmental impact statement must be prepared, BFT will ensure that environmental justice analyses are integrated, consistent with Section IV-8 of FTA Circular 4702.1B. Additionally, as projects are developed, an inclusive public outreach and involvement program will be implemented to ensure the public has early and continuous opportunities to be involved in the process. As stated above, BFT’s capital projects are ensured to be compliant with NEPA and SEPA requirements. Once the FTA has developed guidance on facility sighting, BFT will adhere to said guidance to ensure the proper measures are taken to mitigate any negative impacts or burdens that future capital projects will have on the low-income and minority populations within BFT’s PTBA.

v. Information Dissemination

BFT will continue to develop and implement inclusive, effective public outreach and information strategies that involve the public (including low-income and minority populations) in transit service, fare, and facility siting decisions. BFT’s Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Process outlines guidance for outreach strategies to reach populations with limited English skills. BFT’s LEP Implementation Plan and Four Factor Analysis is included in Attachment A. BFT has committed itself to making all staff associated with the organization aware of Title VI requirements and best practices. Also, BFT puts emphasis on making certain that vehicle operators are adequately trained in the components of Title VI and, most importantly, in dealing with LEP customers. Additionally, BFT's Board of Directors is addressed frequently during the Title VI update process, receiving information from its Title VI officer about the Title VI requirements and BFT’s policy regarding compliance. These are a few of the ways BFT disseminates Title VI information to the public and through every level of the organization hierarchy, from operator to the Board of Directors.

vi. Requirements to Provide Assistance to Sub-recipients & Monitor Compliance

At this time, BFT has no sub recipients and does not pass FTA funds through to any sub recipients.


PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROCESS, COMMENTS & COMPLAINTS

I. Policy Statement and Purpose

It is the policy of BFT to encourage broad comment and input, including complaints, on proposed Program of Projects, Service Changes, Fare Changes and various policies. Title VI requires setting thresholds for this public comment process. The Disproportionate Burden and or Discriminatory Impact Policies are included in this document as they state required public input and BFT’s intention to resolve any concern regarding service and fare changes in the system. In addition, BFT encourages broad comment on policies that may impact its customers and frequently carries out surveys, public forums and open houses in addition to this formal process. The Customer Comment Records document concerns or compliments received from the public; this process is included below.

II. Public Involvement Processes

Changes requiring a public process will include changes defined in the BFT Title VI policies. Additional policies may be taken through a Public Input Process at the discretion of the General Manager. Public involvement will be undertaken for the following, including but not limited to:

A major service change is defined as any change in service on any individual route that would add or eliminate more than 20% of the route revenue miles or 20% of the route revenue hours. All major service changes will be subject to an equity analysis which includes an analysis of adverse effects.

A service change leading to an adverse effect is defined as a geographical or time-based reduction in service which includes but is not limited to: span of service changes, frequency changes, route segment elimination, re-routing, or route elimination.

A service change that could lead to a disproportionate burden occurring when the low-income population adversely affected by a fare or service change is 20% more than the average low-income population of BFT’s service area.

A disparate impact occurs when the minority population adversely affected by a fare or service change is 20% more than the average minority population of BFT’s service area.

Program of Projects (POP) as included in the Transit Development Plan (TDP), Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as well as any Environmental Justice (EJ) Analysis.

Fare changes.

Procedures: In order to ensure the maximum opportunity for public input and involvement in the decision process regarding major service changes and fare increases, BFT adheres to the following procedures:

Provide at least a 30 day advance notice of public hearings regarding major service changes or fare increases in Spanish and English.


Customers, the public and the community will be informed of the proposed change, comment process and public hearings by way of: newspaper display ads, multimedia news releases, onboard fliers, postings at BFT offices and the BFT website. All media are in both Spanish and English.

Proposals for major service changes and fare increases will be submitted to the BFT Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) for discussion, review and comment. The CAC is a group of citizens that includes representatives of the disabled, low income, educational institutes, major employers and LEP portions of our customer base.

All input and comment including minutes of public hearings, recommendations of the CAC and BFT staff recommendations shall be provided to the BFT Board of Directors prior to any decision regarding changes to any program of projects, major service, fare and other policies. Interpreters are present at all public hearings to translate information and take comments.

III. General Public Comment Procedures

The BFT Customer Comment Policy has been established to ensure that customers of all modes of the system, including bus, paratransit, vanpool and contracted services have an easy and accessible way to provide feedback to the agency. BFT is open to hearing any customer feedback including complaints, comments, suggestions, or concerns. BFT receives public comment by:

Postage-free Customer Comment Cards: Available on BFT and contractor vehicles and at Pass Outlets in Spanish and English (Attachment B).

U.S. Mail: 1000 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA 99352.

Telephone: Riders can contact the BFT Customer Service Department (735-5100) or use established public comment lines when available.

E-mail: Riders can contact BFT by e-mail at [email protected].

Language Line: For riders who speak a language other than English, BFT will utilize the services of Language Line Solutions℠ to facilitate calls. BFT emphasizes bi-lingual staffing to assure communications with LEP customers.

In-person: At the Three Rivers Customer Service Center (7109 W. Okanogan Place, Kennewick, WA 99336), or Administration Building (1000 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA 99352).

Website: Riders can offer feedback on the BFT website, www.bft.org by going to the "Contact Us" link. Google Translate is linked to our site and assists communication with LEP customers.

Feedback Review Process: All feedback from customers is valued. Anyone who submits a comment, complaint, or service suggestion to BFT and requests a response will receive an initial response within fifteen (15) working days provided they give legible contact information. Complaints are recorded and investigated by staff. Suggestions and improvements for the system are made to address complaints if possible. Appropriate actions are taken to address complaints regarding staff, equipment or processes.


mailto:[email protected]

http://www.bft.org/

Information about Policy: Information about the Customer Comment Policy, including how to submit a complaint, is made available to riders in our schedule book, on our website, at all sales outlets and on our vehicles. Reporting: Staff will compile an annual summary of customer comments for the Board and employees for use in reviewing and evaluating service. Tracking: BFT will maintain a tracking system for all feedback from customers.

IV. Protection from Retribution

Customers of BFT shall be able to submit complaints, feedback or participate in the public involvement process without fear of retribution from the agency. If a customer feels like they are being treated unfairly in response to the feedback that they provided, they should contact the BFT Office of the General Manager. BFT will appropriately discipline any employee or contractor that retaliates against a customer.

V. Title VI Compliant Procedure

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin in programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance. BFT is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of its transit services on the basis of race, color, or national origin, as protected by Title VI in FTA Circular 4702.1.B. To this end BFT has a complaint process in place. The following statement is posted on our website, in our Customer Service Center and is included in our schedule book in Spanish and English. "BFT operates its programs without regard to race, color and national origin. To receive additional information on BFT’s discrimination obligations, including our complaint procedures, please contact us at (509) 734-5107." Filing a Title VI Complaint: Persons may file a signed, written complaint no later than 180 days from the date of the alleged discrimination. They are advised that a complaint should include the following information:

Name, mailing address, and how to contact the complainant (i.e., telephone number, email address, etc.).

How, when, where and why they believe they were discriminated against, including the location, names and contact information of any witnesses.

Other information that they deem significant.


The complaint may be filed in writing or by contacting BFT at the following address or phone numbers:

Ben Franklin Transit Title VI Coordinator 1000 Columbia Park Trail Richland, WA 99352-4851 By phone: 509-734-5107 By Facsimile: 509-735-4392

BFT encourages all complainants to submit complaints in writing, preferably via certified mail through the U.S. Postal Service, and/or ensure that all written correspondence can be tracked easily. For complaints originally submitted by facsimile, an original, signed copy of the complaint must be mailed to the Title VI Coordinator as soon as possible, but no later than 180 days from knowledge of possible discrimination. Verbal complainants will be advised to follow this procedure, and the Title VI Coordinator will arrange accommodations for any disability, language concern or other issue as needed. Complaint after submitted to BFT: All complaints alleging discrimination based on income, race, color or national origin in a service or benefit provided by BFT will be directly addressed by BFT. BFT shall also provide appropriate assistance to complainants, including those persons with disabilities, or who are limited in their ability to communicate in English. Additionally, BFT shall make every effort to address all complaints in an expeditious and thorough manner. In instances where additional information is needed for investigation of the complaint, BFT will appropriately contact the complainant, in writing unless otherwise requested. Please note that in responding to any requests for additional information, a complainant’s failure to provide the requested information may result in the administrative closure of the complaint. Once sufficient information for investigating the complaint is received by BFT, BFT will prepare a draft written response subject to review by the transit’s attorney. If appropriate, the BFT attorney may administratively close the complaint. In this case, BFT will notify the complainant of the action as soon as possible. Notification of outcome of a complaint: BFT will send a final written response to the complainant and advise the complainant of his or her right to:

1) Appeal within 7 calendar days of receipt of the final written decision from BFT, and/or

2) File a complaint externally with the U.S. DOT and/or the FTA.

BFT will make every effort to respond to Title VI complaints within 5 working days of receipt of such complaints, if not sooner. In addition to the complaint process described above, a complainant may file a Title VI complaint with the following offices:

Office of Civil Rights Federal Transit Administration Office of Civil Rights

Federal Transit Administration Attention: Title VI Program Coordinator

915 Second Avenue, St 3142 East Building, 5th Floor – TCR

Seattle, WA 98174 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE

Phone: 206 220 4462 Fax: 206-220-7959 Washington DC 20590


2013-2016 REVIEW

The following is a review of Title VI activities and impacts for May 2013 through June 2016.

I. General Reporting Requirements

Lawsuits or Complaints Alleging Discrimination

There were no complaints made against BFT alleging discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin regarding service or other transit benefits during this reporting period. BFT has not been the subject of a Title VI lawsuit.

Construction Projects

BFT has no construction projects currently under way. However, since the last Title VI Program submission in 2013, BFT has made several improvements to the Tulip Lane Park and Ride. Improvements included constructing a parking lot and adding new bus shelters. Projects from 2013-2016

Tulip Lane Park and Ride Improvements

Planned Construction Projects for 2016-2020

Transit Center rehabilitation and amenity updates

Security improvements

Bus Shelter additions and improvements

Retrofit walkway for ADA compatibility

Construction of additional Park and Rides

Operations facilities upgrades

II. Transit Provider Specific Requirements

i. Demographic Maps and Chart

Maps presenting the information required for this review are included in Attachment I. The base map shows census tracts by number, major streets/highways, major activity centers, minority population percentage, and transit routes. Maps highlighting those census tracts with minority or low income populations greater than the service area average are also included. BFT’s 2014 Rider Satisfaction Survey found that on average, 37.5% of BFT riders surveyed self-identified as a minority.


Table 1 - 2014 Rider Satisfaction Survey Racial Breakdown

Race of Survey Respondents Percentage

Caucasian/White 55.3%

Hispanic/Latino (of any race) 22.3%

African-American 6.3%

American Indian or Alaska Native 3.1%

Asian 3.0%

Some other race 2.3%

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 0.5%

Minority Respondents 44.7%

Additionally, 79% of riders use our service 4 to 7 days a week. The top three trip purposes were 24% traveling to work, 30% traveling to school, and 22% traveling for personal business. Riders reported that 74% had transferred to another BFT bus within the past two hours, 83% reported not having access to an automobile, 62% make less than $20,000 a year and 28% speak a second language other than English at home. The following data was utilized in creating the demographic maps for BFT Service area. The information on race and income demographics was obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau’s website.

Table 2 – 2014 Population Percentages by Race for Benton and Franklin County

Pop. Percentage by Race (U.S. Census) Benton County

Franklin County

Black persons 1.6% 2.8%

American Indian & Alaska Native persons 1.3% 1.4%

Asian persons 3.0% 2.1%

Native Hawaiian & Other Pacific Islander persons 0.2% 0.4%

Persons reporting two or more races 2.9% 2.4%

Persons of Hispanic or Latino Origin 20.4% 51.9%

White persons not Hispanic 72.3% 42.1%

Minority Population 27.7% 57.9%


Table 3 – 2014 Population Percentages by Income for Benton and Franklin County (U.S. Census)

Pop. Percentage by Income (U.S. Census) Benton County Franklin County Total

Total Households 66,625 24,207 90,832

Less than $10,000 5% 6% 5%

$10,000 to $14,999 4% 5% 5%

$15,000 to $24,999 10% 11% 10%

$25,000 to $34,999 9% 9% 9%

$35,000 to $49,999 13% 13% 13%

$50,000 to $74,999 18% 22% 19%

$75,000 to $99,999 14% 16% 14%

$100,000 to $149,999 16% 12% 15%

$150,000 to $199,999 6% 4% 5%

$200,000 or more 5% 2% 4%

Median family income (dollars) $ 60,589 $ 56,719 $ 59,557*

Mean family income (dollars) $ 77,597 $ 65,800 $ 74,453*

*Weighted average of Benton and Franklin County

ii. Service Standards and Policies

Service Standards were initially adopted by the Board of Directors in 1982 with revisions thereafter (fares, routes, etc.) to guide service planning decisions. Service Standards and Policies were reviewed and revised, sent out for Public Hearing on March 12, 2013, adopted by the Board on March 14, 2013, and implemented as of April 1, 2013. BFT continues to adhere to the Service Standards and Policies adopted in 2013.

a) Vehicle Load

BFT has adopted a maximum load factor standard for its fixed route services.

Table 4 - Load Factor Standard by Bus Type

Vehicle Type

Capacity Seated Standing Total Max Load Factor

30' Bus 31 31 7 38 1.25

35' Bus 38 38 9 47 1.25

40' Bus 44 44 11 55 1.25


Currently, all fixed routes operate below this standard except for routes on school runs where 30% or more may be standing. Where certain trips experience consistent standees beyond the load factor standard, BFT adds buses to address the excess demand in the form of overflow Tripper Routes. BFT staff has determined that there is no need to develop a vehicle load standard for its Demand Response services due to the fact that the majority of DAR trips are dispatched to serve a single customer.

b) Vehicle Headway

Currently BFT headways are adjusted based on ridership demand and market potential, as determined by load factors, productivity and development growth. Current vehicle headways are 30 to 60 minutes. Headways on routes that travel through multiple cities are 60 to 120 minutes due to the larger distances routes are traveling to capture the total service area. There have been no adjustments to BFT’s fixed route headways since the last Title VI program update.

c) On-Time Performance for Each Mode

On-time performance varies by mode. Currently Fixed Route operates between 0 and 5 minutes before a Fixed Route bus is considered late. Demand Response operates between 0 and 15 minutes before a Demand Response Para-Transit vehicle is considered to be late. Performance for the peak routes showed that 49% of routes observed arrived early to their terminuses, 44% arrived at the scheduled time, and 6% arrived late. Routes pulled out no later than one minute past scheduled time. Routes arriving early pull at the scheduled leave time to ensure customers are able to complete their transfers.

Table 5 - Weekday Performance Quarterly Breakdown

13-Jul 13-Oct 14-Jan 14-Apr 14-Jul 14-Nov 15-Jan 15-Apr 15-Jul 15-Dec

Late 5% 7% 9% 11% 0% 2% 8% 8% 5% 8%

On-Time 39% 45% 53% 52% 29% 53% 44% 51% 36% 41%

Early 56% 47% 39% 38% 71% 45% 47% 41% 59% 51%

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%

100%

Pe

rce

nta

ge

of

Mo

nit

ore

d A

rriv

als

Weekday On-Time Performance2013-2015


d) Service Availability for Each Mode

BFT distributes bus service so that the majority of all residents within the service area are within a 1/2 mile walk of bus service. Para-Transit service operates on an eligibility basis throughout the entire PTBA, at a regular rate when the origin and destination are within 3/4 of a mile of the service boundary, and at a premium rate when the origin or destination is beyond 3/4 of a mile from the service boundary.

Table 6 - Population within 0.5 Miles of Fixed Route Services

Name % Total

Population 2015

Change in Population

2000 to 2010

% Change in Population

2000 to 2010

Change in Population

2010 to 2015

% Change in Pop. 2010

to 2015

Pop. within 1/2 Mile 204,180 46,266 31.80% 12,415 6.47%

*Provided by Washington State Office of Financial Management, SAEP

e) Distribution of Transit Amenities

Transit amenities, including facilities, are located where existing or projected demand supports the investment. Each major Transit Center has an equitable distribution of amenities. Given the different modes of service, safety and operational issues, and ridership levels, amenities such as benches, shelters, and lighting, are placed by need. To facilitate inter-modal mobility, BFT buses are equipped with bike racks capable of transporting two to three bikes. BFT also provides bike racks or lockers at the facilities listed in Table 7 below. Maps presented in Attachment H show the distribution of fixed transit facilities within BFT’s service area. The following tables provide further detail regarding amenities at BFT transit centers and park and ride facilities.

Table 7 - Transit Center Amenities

Transit Center Passenger Services

Security Public Restroom

Bicycle Locker/ Rack

Three Rivers Transit Center Yes Yes Yes Yes

Ed Frost Transit Center No No No Yes

Knight St Transit Center No No No Yes

22nd Street Transit Center No No No Yes

Columbia Park Trail MOA Yes Yes Yes Yes

West Richland Transit Center No No No Yes

Dayton Transfer Point No No No Yes

Stacy Avenue Transit Center No No No Yes


Table 8 – Park & Ride Amenities

Park & Ride Location Lot Capacity Shelter

Public Restroom Bicycle Storage

Ed Frost Transit Center Kennewick 96 Yes No Yes

Tulip Lane Park & Ride Richland 139 Yes No Yes

22nd Ave Transit Center

Pasco 50 Yes No No

Knight Street Transit Center

Richland 50 Yes No No

Stacy Avenue Transit Center

Prosser 28 Yes No Yes

Benton City Park and Ride

Benton City 25 Yes No No

SR 224 & Flattop Park West Richland

145 Yes No No

Richland Wye Park & Ride

Richland 250 No No No

TRAC Park and Ride Pasco 172 No No No

Stevens Dr. & Spengler Richland 686 No No No

BFT has 969 posted stops, 134 flag stops, 985 shelters and an estimated 170 benches throughout its system. BFT has one solar powered bus stop and two solar powered shelters. Transit centers provide lighting for safety and illumination of schedule information.

Table 9 – Amenities by City

City Total Stops Posted Stops Flag Stops Shelters

Kennewick 388 371 17 29

Pasco 314 261 53 20

Richland 319 273 46 27

West Richland 43 42 1 2

Prosser 11 6 5 1

Benton City 28 16 12 4

PTBA Total 1103 969 134 85


f) Transit Access

BFT fixed route service averages one stop every 1/4 mile, and offers flag stops for customers as long as safety standards are met. Furthermore, through comments and suggestions BFT works diligently to meet stop location demand as requested by the public. For service planning and evaluation purposes, BFT assumes that the distance customers will travel to access local urban fixed route service is 1/2 mile.

g) Transit Security

BFT ensures a safe and reliable transit experience for passengers by providing fleet and facility security measures such as digital video cameras, automated vehicle locators, contract security personnel, and on-site police presence. Passenger education campaigns have also been successful and will continue to ensure safety and security. Additional security measures will be considered as needs arise and funding is available.

h) Vehicle Assignment

Vehicles will be assigned to routes based on ridership capacity and anticipated need for capacity. Same size vehicles are used interchangeably when daily route assignments are made. Thus, all new and aging vehicles circulate equitably in poorer and richer neighborhoods alike. The BFT fleet summary is set forth in Attachment M.

iii. Assessment of Compliance by Grantees

BFT prepares a Title VI analysis for fare and major service changes using the analysis guidance provided by the FTA. Additionally, BFT will continue to annually evaluate service as outlined in Title VI using the following process:

Measure all census tracts for percentage of minority population.

Establish the minority percentages for the total service area.

Determine which individual census tracts have minority populations equal to or greater than the total minority percentage for the service areas.

Identify all census tracts associated with each BFT route.

Identify and designate individual routes as minority or non-minority.

Establish system-wide averages for service, vehicles, and amenity distribution.

Inventory service and amenities by route (both minority and nonminority). Evaluate individual routes to assess any disproportionate impacts for any route for any category of evaluated criteria.

Document any corrective action based upon analysis.


iv. Other Areas of Consideration

a) Changes in Service and Fare Features

BFT defines a major service change as one that "affects at least 20% of a route’s daily service hour allotment or geographic coverage". For major service changes and all fare changes, BFT prepares and submits an equity analysis to FTA with Title VI documents every three years. Upon review, it has been determined that BFT has made no changes to its fare and has not implemented any service changes that would require a service equity or fare equity analysis.

FARE CHANGES

According to the requirements of Chapter 4-10 of the Title VI Circular (FTA C 4702.1B) BFT relies heavily on the public involvement process to evaluate affordability of a proposed fare change and determine what, if any, changes need to be made to the proposal. BFT publishes information about proposed fare changes on-board buses, through rider newsletters, on its web site, at Passenger Service Offices, through mailings, at public meetings, and in news releases covered by the local media. Information regarding the fare change is made available for language translation via the BFT telephone translation service and the BFT website by utilizing Google Translator. BFT conducts a minimum of two public meetings per change to solicit input from various rider groups who would potentially be affected by fare increases. BFT uses a variety of methods to involve the community in decisions about transit service. Goals of public outreach efforts include: building relationships through community involvement, education regarding transit issues/options, and soliciting valuable input. BFT’s CAC, made up of members representing a variety of constituencies, is an integral part of community engagement and feedback on service and fare proposals as well as other issues. BFT occasionally conducts a Community Report Card phone survey to check community understanding and perceptions of BFT. This information is useful in helping to target areas where there is potential for improvement in service and community awareness. The BFT Rider Satisfaction Survey is used to identify effective strategies to reach different rider segments as well as to monitor rider perceptions of service performance. The Limited English Proficiency Plan outlines strategies for engaging and informing those with limited English skills. In addition to engaging the general public, BFT seeks to engage and include minority, low income, and LEP populations in public outreach activities. This is especially important when the proposed changes impact service in these communities. BFT provides rider information in English and Spanish. Rider information is also available on BFT’s website and can be translated into multiple languages utilizing Google Translate. Notice of Beneficiaries of Protection under Title VI is available in BFT schedule books in both English and Spanish. BFT’s Customer Service office also utilizes a phone-accessible translation service in order to provide assistance to passengers that speak languages that our customer service representatives are not proficient in. More information on BFT’s commitment to providing assistance to our LEP passengers can be found in our Limited English Proficiency Plan in Attachment A.

I. Fare Changes Implemented

BFT has not implemented any fare changes since the 2013 Title VI update.


SERVICE CHANGES

BFT used a variety of strategies to disseminate information regarding proposed service changes to protected groups. When a service change is proposed, rider alerts and posters are distributed on all buses within the fleet detailing the changes being made. In the event of a proposed service change, BFT will host several open houses and distributed information via its website as well as utilize advertising and local media to inform the public. Detailed information is distributed to social service agencies (including those focused on LEP outreach). BFT solicits comments in person, by e-mail, by U.S. mail, and by phone. Print schedules and online trip planning are made available in advance to help riders prepare. Information regarding service changes is also made available for language translation via the BFT telephone translation service and via its website through Google translator. In order to disseminate information regarding a proposed service change, rider alerts are posted on the BFT website and released through the email distribution system, and notices are posted on-board buses. In the event of a service change or fare change, BFT holds an open house and public hearing for the proposed service changes prior to implementation.

I. Major Service Changes Implemented

Major Service Changes are defined as route adjustments that would add or eliminate more than 20% of the route revenue miles or 20% of the route revenue hours. BFT’s Major Service Change Policy would mandate that if service changes were to result in a 20% change in route revenue miles or revenue hours, a service equity analysis would be conducted. As of May 2016, BFT is conducting a Comprehensive Service Plan Study that looks to improve services across all modes. It has not yet been determined what changes will be made to the current program of services BFT provides, but the intended outcome is a more efficient, convenient, and viable means of transportation for the communities it serves. All changes implemented in relation to the Comprehensive Service Plan Study will be subject to BFT’s Major Service Change Policy and will require an equity analysis if changes exceed mandated thresholds.

LEVEL OF SERVICE

Attachment I contains the level of service analysis for each census tract in BFT’s service area. All routes comply with service standards as discussed previously. Currently BFT’s PTBA contains a population of approximately 246,149 according to the Washington State Financial Management, Forecasting and Research Division; out of this number BFT Serves an estimated 82.9% or 204,180 people. The remaining 17.1% have partial access through taxi feeder services.

I. Quality of Service

Utilizing the U.S. census demographic data, combining Benton & Franklin County, 87.9% of minorities in BFT’s service area are located inside the Benton-Franklin County urban growth boundary (UGB). According to demographic maps, BFT’s routes service all but 18.9% of the population within the PTBA.


Overall, the highest levels of BFT service are provided in Pasco and Kennewick, where minority populations comprise a greater percentage of the total population. Many major activity and employment centers for Benton and Franklin Counties are located within the PTBA, as are the population and employment densities necessary to support high levels of transit service. BFT currently provides service to or near most major activity centers. BFT will pursue funding options necessary to implement the service and facility improvements included in BFT’s Transit Development Plan (TDP) adopted in July 2015. The public engagement process has driven much of the decision processes for these major milestones, as BFT continues to improve mobility options for all its current and future passengers.

1) Facilities are in need of repair. Paving at transit centers is slated for replacement using FTA grant funding. Security will be enhanced again with 5307 FTA funding. Additionally, buildings will be painted, carpets replaced, and other repairs completed with local funds as they are available.

2) Replace vehicles and modernize the existing Bus, Paratransit and Vanpool Fleets. BFT is currently running a majority of vehicles in all fleets that exceed the expected life span per FTA recommendations. This results in excess maintenance costs, increased breakdowns and call outs, and unreliability of schedule.

a. Using 5307 FTA funding vehicles are being ordered.

b. Staff will be analyzing rebuilds of current equipment depending upon the reliability of rebuilds.

c. Various fueling sources that have proven track records will be integrated into fleets.

The following table indicates the planned improvements and maintenance for the coming 6 years. Changes are dependent upon funding remaining stable in relationship with costs. Expenditures and Revenues must match as BFT maintains a minimum 3 month reserve and plans conservatively to assure a healthy financial picture.

II. Program of Projects

The following is a summary of the projects planned for BFT over the next six years. More specific information is included in the TDP and the Ben Franklin Council of Government’s 2015-2020 Regional Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Both of these documents were taken through the established Public Involvement process and are equitably distributed throughout the service area. BFT maintains an inventory of all bus shelters and benches, including their condition so they can be regularly rehabilitated, improved, and/or replaced following the facilities schedule.


Table 10 – Program of Projects Timeline

2016 Preservation / Improvements

Services System analysis and Amenities analysis

Facilities Maintain, improve, upgrade and expand per service level demands all bus stops, transit centers, park and rides and administration campuses.

Vehicles Replace or rebuild existing vehicles, up to 6 transit buses, 12 paratransit vehicles, 5 non-revenue support vehicles, 25 vans and 29 growth vans.


Services Assess and modify services as necessary; Increase taxi feeder and add fixed routes as demand warrants.


Vehicles Replace or rebuild existing vehicles, up to 6 transit buses, 15 paratransit vehicles, 5 non-revenue support vehicles and 25 vans.




Vehicles Replace or rebuild existing vehicles, up to 6 transit buses, 12 paratransit vehicles, 25 vans and 29 growth vehicles.


Services Assess and modify services as necessary; Increase taxi feeder and add fixed route as demand warrants.


Vehicles Replace or rebuild existing vehicles, up to 6 transit buses, 15 paratransit vehicles and 45 vans.



Facilities Maintain, improve, upgrade and expand per service level demands all bus stops, transit centers, park and rides and administration campuses including but not limited to paving and security.

Vehicles Replace or rebuild existing vehicles, up to 6 transit buses, 12 paratransit vehicles, 5 non-revenue support vehicles, 45 vans and 29 growth vehicles.


Map A - BFT PTBA


Map B - BFT Service 1/2 Mile Buffer


Map C - BFT Prosser Service 1/2 Mile Buffer


Map D - Finley Taxi Feeder Pick-Up Locations


ATTACHMENT A Limited English Proficiency Plan

The following Title VI information is posted inside all of our Transit Guides which is located on buses, Transit Centers and in more detail at our website.

BFT Limited English Proficiency Four-Factor Analysis and Implementation Plan

BFT has conducted a Four-Factor Analysis to meet requirements under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which seeks to improve access to services for persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Executive Order 13166, "Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency", directs federal financial recipients to take reasonable steps to ensure meaningful access to their programs and activities by LEP persons. Four Factor Analysis

Factor #1: The Number and Proportion of LEP Persons Served

BFT provides important transit services to the public through its fixed route, paratransit, and rideshare programs and is committed to reducing language barriers by implementing consistent standards of language assistance across its service area. BFT recognizes that our community is diversified and because of this has seized the initiative by implementing tools to reduce barriers which cause LEP persons to be underserved. To determine the extent of the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) population existing in the communities served by BFT, U.S. Census data for Benton and Franklin Counties are included. BFT's service area does not include the total of these two counties but does include major populated portions of each including; Pasco, Richland, Kennewick, West Richland, Prosser, Benton City and rural portions of each county. Data to determine numbers and proportions of LEP populations within BFT’s service was gathered from the U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 – 2014 American Community Survey. BFT serves primarily English speaking individuals; however, a strong presence exists of Spanish speaking individuals, 14.6% of Benton County and 44.7% of Franklin County.

BFT operates its programs without regard to race, color, and national origin. To receive additional info on BFT’s discrimination obligations, including our complaint procedures, please contact us at (509) 734-5119.

Ben Franklin Transit opera sus programas sin distinción de color raza y origen nacional. Para recibir información adicional sobre las obligaciones de discriminación, incluidos los procedimientos de queja, por favor comuníquese con nosotros al (509) 734-5119.


Table-1 Language Spoken at Home ‐ Benton County

Demographic Subject

Benton County, Washington

Total Percent of specified language speakers

Speak English "very well"

Speak English less than "very well"

Estimate Margin of

Error Estimate

Margin of Error

Estimate Margin of Error

Population 5 years and over 168,667 +/-44 91.7% +/-0.7 8.3% +/-0.7

Speak only English 80.9% +/-0.8 (X) (X) (X) (X)

Speak a language other than English 19.1% +/-0.8 56.4% +/-2.8 43.6% +/-2.8

Spanish or Spanish Creole 14.6% +/-0.7 53.8% +/-3.5 46.2% +/-3.5

Other Indo-European languages 2.0% +/-0.3 71.4% +/-7.3 28.6% +/-7.3

Asian and Pacific Island languages 2.0% +/-0.3 53.8% +/-7.0 46.2% +/-7.0

Other languages 0.5% +/-0.2 83.9% +/-12.5 16.1% +/-12.5

SPEAK A LANGUAGE OTHER THAN ENGLISH

Spanish or Spanish Creole 24,617 +/-1,129 53.8% +/-3.5 46.2% +/-3.5

5-17 years 7,258 +/-648 50.9% +/-6.2 49.1% +/-6.2

18-64 years 16,380 +/-677 55.1% +/-3.8 44.9% +/-3.8

65 years and over 979 +/-150 53.0% +/-11.0 47.0% +/-11.0 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010-2014 5-Years American Community Survey

Table-2 Language Spoken at Home ‐ Franklin County

Demographic Subject

Franklin County, Washington

Total Percent of specified language speakers

Speak English "very well"

Speak English less than "very well"

Estimate Margin of Error Estimate Margin of Error Estimate Margin of

Error

Population 5 years and over 75,767 +/-111 74.3% +/-1.5 25.7% +/-1.5

Speak only English 52.2% +/-1.3 (X) (X) (X) (X)

Speak a language other than English 47.8% +/-1.3 46.2% +/-3.1 53.8% +/-3.1

Spanish or Spanish Creole 44.7% +/-1.1 46.0% +/-3.2 54.0% +/-3.2

Other Indo-European languages 1.3% +/-0.5 61.8% +/-17.0 38.2% +/-17.0

Asian and Pacific Island languages 1.4% +/-0.4 43.0% +/-11.3 57.0% +/-11.3

Other languages 0.5% +/-0.4 38.3% +/-31.7 61.7% +/-31.7

SPEAK A LANGUAGE OTHER THAN ENGLISH

Spanish or Spanish Creole 33,860 +/-844 46.0% +/-3.2 54.0% +/-3.2

5-17 years 10,519 +/-501 54.8% +/-5.9 45.2% +/-5.9

18-64 years 22,189 +/-499 42.9% +/-3.4 57.1% +/-3.4

65 years and over 1,152 +/-82 25.1% +/-11.8 74.9% +/-11.8 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010-2014 5-Years American Community Survey


Table‐3 Language Spoken at Home Breakdown for Benton & Franklin County

B16001: Language Spoken at Home by Ability to Speak English for the Population 5 Years and Over

Benton County, Washington Franklin County, Washington

Estimate Margin of Error Estimate Margin of Error

Total: 168667 +/-44 75767 +/-111

Speak only English 136468 +/-1,327 39527 +/-968

Spanish or Spanish Creole: 24617 +/-1,129 33860 +/-844

Speak English "very well" 13236 +/-834 15571 +/-1,210

Speak English less than "very well" 11381 +/-1,179 18289 +/-1,068

French (incl. Patois, Cajun): 414 +/-180 67 +/-58

Speak English "very well" 347 +/-176 67 +/-58

Speak English less than "very well" 67 +/-49 0 +/-28

French Creole: 0 +/-28 31 +/-53



Italian: 57 +/-49 0 +/-28



Portuguese or Portuguese Creole: 77 +/-77 17 +/-27



German: 575 +/-141 106 +/-59



Yiddish: 13 +/-23 0 +/-28



Other West Germanic languages: 11 +/-15 15 +/-17



Scandinavian languages: 38 +/-38 6 +/-10



Greek: 63 +/-61 26 +/-51



Russian: 666 +/-296 325 +/-241



Polish: 68 +/-53 0 +/-28






Serbo-Croatian: 567 +/-286 28 +/-44



Other Slavic languages: 346 +/-186 161 +/-119



Armenian: 0 +/-28 30 +/-45



Persian: 17 +/-22 0 +/-28



Gujarati: 0 +/-28 45 +/-68



Hindi: 72 +/-68 11 +/-17



Urdu: 45 +/-65 0 +/-28



Other Indic languages: 267 +/-200 87 +/-142



Other Indo-European languages: 91 +/-86 13 +/-18



Chinese: 903 +/-286 49 +/-55



Japanese: 178 +/-116 17 +/-16



Korean: 74 +/-76 24 +/-27



Mon-Khmer, Cambodian: 0 +/-28 35 +/-51






Hmong: 0 +/-28 0 +/-28



Thai: 72 +/-49 30 +/-45



Laotian: 250 +/-158 457 +/-268



Vietnamese: 694 +/-274 211 +/-135



Other Asian languages: 407 +/-258 77 +/-101



Tagalog: 700 +/-332 118 +/-119



Other Pacific Island languages: 104 +/-51 18 +/-20



Navajo: 0 +/-28 0 +/-28



Other Native North American languages: 98 +/-71 87 +/-108



Hungarian: 71 +/-69 0 +/-28



Arabic: 360 +/-224 96 +/-159



Hebrew: 0 +/-28 15 +/-25



African languages: 213 +/-250 178 +/-236






Other and unspecified languages: 71 +/-54 0 +/-28



Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010-2014 5-Years American Community Survey

Factor # 2: The Frequency with Which LEP Individuals Come Into Contact with the Service

BFT’s jurisdiction covers two broad areas: Benton County which is largely English speaking and Franklin County which has a large Spanish speaking population. BFT provides services that are used by LEP Persons, including Fixed-Route bus service, Dial-A-Ride service, Demand Response, and Vanpools. LEP persons also access information about BFT services through customer service, fare purchase locations, our Transit System Guide, and the BFT website. BFT conducts outreach in the community about our programs, services, and any proposed changes to those services through public hearings. BFT believes in disseminating any and all information through multiple means. We utilize our website, transfer centers, community centers, staff, and multiple televisions, radio and other media outlets to inform our LEP populations of the services and assistance available. Customer service reps that speak Spanish translate in person or over the phone. Records indicate that from January 2013 to December 2015 Customer Service Representatives translated approximately 350 calls. In addition to our Spanish speaking staff, BFT provides a language line service. Working in coordination with Language Line Solutions℠ BFT was able to assist LEP who spoke languages such as such as Russian, Mandarin, Arabic, Somali and Vietnamese. Data from BFT’s 2014 Ridership surveys indicated 1,385 customers speak the following percentages of languages:

Table-3 2014 Ridership Survey Languages Spoken at Home

Language English Spanish Other Russian Chinese Vietnamese

Percentage 74% 22% 3% 0% 0% 0%

Total 1019 310 40 6 5 5

Factor #3: The Nature and Importance of the Services, Programs, and Activities

According to BFTs 2014 ridership surveys, riders reported utilizing our services to access personal business, travel to home, school or college, medical appointments, and shopping. While results did not state a specific nature, it did give us one very critical piece of information; that 83% of our riders do not have access to vehicles which is a major indicator of how important our services are.


Factor #4: Resources Available to Recipients and the Cost

BFT’s current in-house language capabilities are Spanish and English. Staff in multiple departments can translate and converse in Spanish.

Table-4 Spanish Speaking Staff

Department Staff Spanish Speaking Percentage of Staff

Vanpool 5 3 60%

Demand Response 15 5 33%

Customer Service 6 4 67%

Total 26 12 46%

Staff has agreed to serve as interpreters as needed to assist persons with Limited English Proficiency anytime LEP persons would need assistance with our programs, services, and activities. BFT also recognizes the need to have language services in other languages besides Spanish and has implemented language line services using Language Line Solutions℠ to address that need. Additionally, BFT has an outreach program where Spanish-speaking customers are taught how to ride the bus through seminars and one-on-one assistance. BFT has a number of publications in both English and Spanish, and an approximate budget of; $17,500 per year to print route schedules in English and in Spanish, with an additional $500 per year to produce Spanish language flyers for special events and public notices.


Table-5 Language Line Solutions℠ Statistic from January 2013 to December 2015

Month/Year Mandarin Russian Somali Spanish Vietnamese Others* Calls Minutes Cost

January ‘13 14 1 15 67.8 $ 66.43

February ‘13 0 $ 114.78

March ‘13 2 33 35 169.7 $ 166.31

April ‘13 1 27 1 1 30 144.4 $ 141.54

May ‘13 41 41 175.6 $ 172.10

June ‘13 1 33 34 230.3 $ 225.70

July ‘13 1 1 6.1 $ 5.98

August ‘13 2 2 12.2 $ 11.96

September ‘13 8 2 10 53.7 $ 52.61

October ‘13 5 5 15.4 $ 15.09

December ‘13 1 1 11.2 $ 10.98

January ‘14 0 $ 4.80

February ‘14 0 $ -

March ‘14 2 3 5 22.4 $ 21.94

April ‘14 11 11 61.5 $ 60.29

May ‘14 1 9 3 13 58.6 $ 57.43

June ‘14 2 2 8.0 $ 7.84

July ‘14 6 6 32.4 $ 31.73

August ‘14 1 2 3 19.4 $ 19.01

September ‘14 1 2 3 35.2 $ 34.49

October ‘14 5 5 52.9 $ 51.84

November ‘14 14 14 56.3 $ 55.16

December ‘14 1 6 7 25.8 $ 25.28

January ‘15 4 4 8 44.8 $ 43.90

February ‘15 2 2 1 5 11.0 $ 10.79

March ‘15 2 2 4 96.8 $ 94.86

April ‘15 1 2 6 2 11 90.9 $ 89.08

May ‘15 6 6 53.6 $ 52.52

June ‘15 2 3 1 6 49.7 $ 48.70

July ‘15 6 2 8 80.0 $ 78.39

August ‘15 2 1 6 9 50.1 $ 49.09

September ‘15 1 3 4 19.9 $ 17.54

October ‘15 1 4 5 58.6 $ 57.42

November ‘15 12 12 73.9 $ 72.43

December ‘15 1 1 22 24 107.7 $ 105.57

Totals 3 25 26 282 4 5 345 1995.9 $ 2,073.58

*Included French, German, Tagalog and Akan


Implementation Plan

Research from BFT’s four-factor analysis indicates that Spanish speaking LEP persons are the largest group within BFT’s service area. Persons within the LEP population represent 44.7% and 14.6% of all LEP’s in Franklin and Benton County respectively (ACS 2010-14). While other LEP persons are within our service area, no other language has a population of speakers that exceeds the 5% threshold detailed in Executive Order 13166. Task #1: Language Assistance Services

BFT has sufficient methods in place to ensure LEP persons have access to BFT services. Table 6 lists BFT’s language assistance services, locations, and any recommended actions or responsibilities identified through the four factor analysis and when they will be corrected.

Table-6 Language Assistance Services

Item Where Available Recommended Action Timeline

Language Line Services LEP person calls in to Customer Service where a representative contacts Language Line Solutions℠ and requests the language needed.

Continue using the Language Line Solutions℠ and tracking of call usage.

Ongoing

Translated Media Releases

BFT has always ensured dissemination of information through multiple media outlets: Tri-City Herald, Tu Decides, LaVoz, Prosser Record Bulletin, KNDU, KEPR, KVEN, FOX KONA, Radio LaMaquina Muscal, Radio La Campesia, El Zorra, and KZHR.

Continue ensuring that media releases are translated and disseminated accordingly to LEP persons.

Ongoing

"Travel Training" Training for LEP persons

BFT Travel Trainers provide training on a regular basis and have a full time Spanish speaking employee to ensure that large portion of Spanish speaking LEP persons are being served.

Continue these services, and ensure that staff levels allow the travel training program to have a Spanish speaking employee.

Ongoing

Interpreter at public hearings

BFT provides interpreters at all public hearings to promote attendance and engagement by Spanish speaking LEP persons.

Continue interpreter services.

Ongoing


Item Where Available Recommended Action Timeline

Transit System Guide BFT makes available a detailed schedule book providing maps, schedules, fares and information about other available services, along with Title VI information located on the first page of the book. The detailed guide is in both English and Spanish and is available on all buses and in customer service locations.

BFT continues to print and update schedule books to ensure information is readily available to the public.

Ongoing

Passenger Surveys in Spanish

BFT conducts ridership surveys every 5 years.

Continue conducting surveys

Ongoing

Comment/Compliment Cards

Comment/Compliment cards are located on all BFT buses and at transit centers.

BFT makes customer comment/compliment cards available in Spanish at any location the English version is available

Ongoing

Translated Agency Website

BFT’s website can be translated to 65 different languages via Google Translate

Continue utilizing Google Translate on updated versions of website.

Ongoing

Language Line Information Flyer

BFT fixed route buses Distribute flyers that give LEP individuals information about BFTs language line services

by Q2 2016

Social Media BFT has recently begun developing methodology and procedures for maintaining social media accounts.

Continue work to get these services up and running and ensure that translations are available to the LEP population.

N/A

Using bilingual staff to interpret as needed

BFT has several Spanish speaking representatives in each department that LEP persons would come into contact with:

Vanpool - 2 out of 5 staff

Dial-A-Ride Reservationists and Schedulers - 2 out of 10 staff

Customer Service - 3 out of 6 staff

Ensure that all staff know that bilingual staff is available to ensure that LEP persons are being assisted.

Ongoing


Task #2: Providing Notice about Language Assistance to LEP Persons

BFT employs a variety of methods to communicate with customers and the public. These include printed schedule information, signs inside vehicles, transit centers and park and rides, the customer service Language Line, customer service outlets, headquarters reception, website, Facebook and Twitter, news releases, advertising, community meetings and presentations, and flyers through multiple media outlets. In 2016, BFT implemented the use of Language Line flyers which are placed on all fixed route services. The Language Line flyers contain easily recognized symbols and the phone number of BFTs Language Line translation services. The flyers are meant to be given by of coach operators to any individual that appears to be in need of assistance but a language barrier exists. Task #3: Providing Notice of Available Language Services

Staff understands the value of assisting the community and is trained on how to direct individuals to language line, bilingual staff, or to the BFT website which translates content to over 81 different languages. Furthermore, anytime public feedback is needed for a major service change or fare change, BFT utilizes the following methods to communicate with the public: ads in the Tri‐City Herald; a story on KNDU and/or KEPR local news channels; letters sent to vanpool drivers; information displayed on BFT’s website; flyers on all fixed route buses; taxi flyers; an email to all Human Service providers; mailers to schools and agencies such as DSHS and Meals on Wheels; flyers on Dial‐A‐Ride buses; flyers posted in shelters at Transit Centers; news releases to all media outlets in Spanish and English; and a public hearing. Task #4: Employee Training

BFT trains staff to help minimize barriers when working with individuals that have difficulty speaking English. Training includes a video that helps staff to better understand how to interact with individuals that have limited English proficiency and techniques on how to direct individuals where to find the information they need to locate assistance further so they can access BFT services. Additionally staff is given a Spanish handbook that has simple phrases to help staff in their day to day interaction with the public.

What language assistance BFT offers

Spanish Speaking Staff Available for Translating

How to handle a complaint

Providing Notice of Available Language Service to LEP Persons

Task #5: Monitoring and Updating the LEP Plan

The DOT LEP Guidance suggests that agencies conduct internal monitoring of their system to determine whether language assistance measures and staff training programs are working. BFT will continue to work with multilingual staff, community members, and the LEP population to determine if employees are responding appropriately to requests made with limited English or in a language other than English. BFT will consider implementation of this guidance using available resources such as bilingual staff and ridership surveys.


Evaluation may result in expansion of language assistance measures that are effective, or the modification or elimination of measures which are not effective. If BFT expands or reduces service in areas with high concentrations of LEP persons, the agency will examine methods to best provide language assistance measures to those areas. The Implementation Plan will be conducted every three years and will include the following:

Determination of any changes in the LEP population or areas served by BFT;

Annual number of documented LEP person contacts encountered, where possible;

Annual use of interpretive language services;

How the needs of LEP persons have been addressed;

Determination if the need for services has changed;

Determination if interpretative services have been effective and sufficient to meet the needs;

Determination if complaints have been received concerning BFT’s failure to meet the needs of LEP.


ATTACHMENT B Title VI Complaint Procedures

What is Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964?

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin in programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance. BFT is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of its transit services on the basis of race, color, or national origin, as protected by Title VI in FTA Circular 4702.1.B. To this end BFT has a complaint process in place. The following statement is posted on our website, in our Customer Service Center and is included in our schedule book in Spanish and English. "BFT operates its programs without regard to race, color and national origin. To receive additional info on BFT’s discrimination obligations, including our complaint procedures, please contact us at (509) 734-5107." How to file a Title VI Complaint?

People may file a signed, written complaint thirty (30) days from the date of alleged discrimination. They are advised that a complaint should include the following information:

Your name, mailing address, and how to contact you (i.e., telephone number, email address, etc.)

How, when, where and why you believe you were discriminated against. Include the location, names and contact information of any witnesses.

Other information that you deem significant The complaint may be filed in writing with BFT at the following address:

Ben Franklin Transit Title VI Coordinator 1000 Columbia Park Trail Richland, WA 99352-4851 By phone: 509-734-5107 By Facsimile: 509-735-4392

NOTE: BFT encourages all complainants to certify all mail that is sent through the U.S. Postal Service and/or ensure that all written correspondence can be tracked easily. For complaints originally submitted by facsimile, an original, signed copy of the complaint must be mailed to the Title VI Coordinator as soon as possible, but no later than 30 days from the alleged date of discrimination.


What happens to a complaint after it is submitted to BFT?

All complaints alleging discrimination based on race, color or national origin in a service or benefit provided by BFT will be directly addressed by BFT. BFT shall also provide appropriate assistance to complainants, including those persons with disabilities, or who are limited in their ability to communicate in English. Additionally, BFT shall make every effort to address all complaints in an expeditious and thorough manner. In instances where additional information is needed for investigation of the complaint, BFT will contact the complainant in writing. Please note that in responding to any requests for additional information, a complainant’s failure to provide the requested information may result in the administrative closure of the complaint. Once sufficient information for investigating the complaint is received by BFT, BFT will prepare a draft written response subject to review by the transit’s attorney. If appropriate, the BFT attorney may administratively close the complaint. In this case, BFT will notify the complainant of the action as soon as possible. How will people be notified of the outcome of their complaint?

BFT will send a final written response to the complainant and advise the complainant of his or her right to: 1) appeal within 7 calendar days of receipt of the final written decision from BFT, and/or 2) file a complaint externally with the U.S. DOT and/or the FTA. BFT will make every effort to respond to Title VI complaints within 60 working days of receipt of such complaints, if not sooner. In addition to the complaint process described above, a complainant may file a Title VI complaint with the following offices:

Office of Civil Rights Federal Transit Administration Office of Civil Rights

Federal Transit Administration Attention: Title VI Program Coordinator

915 Second Avenue, St 3142 East Building, 5th Floor – TCR

Seattle, WA 98174 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE

Phone: 206 220 4462 Fax: 206-220-7959 Washington DC 20590


ATTACHMENT C Title VI Assistance Forms

TITLE VI COMPLAINT FORM English


TITLE VI COMPLAINT FORM Spanish


CUSTOMER FEEDBACK FORMS English

Spanish


LANGUAGE ASSITANCE LINE HANDOUT


ATTACHMENT D List of Transit-Related Title VI Investigations, Complaints, and Lawsuits

Date Summary Status Action Taken

Complaint 11/20/2014

Complaint about disproportionate

and disparate service in high

income and low minority areas

could be considered Title VI

complaint.

Closed

Service Development Manager and Title

VI Officer reached out over the phone to

the customer to address concerns. The

service in question is a tripper service

that is open to the public and similar

services happen in other areas of the Tri-

Cities. It is my understanding that the

service has been in place since BFT’s

creation.

Complaint 9/10/2015

A complaint was made by a BFT

customer September 10, 2015.

He stated that he had tried to

board a bus on September 2, 2015

at a Parochial school in Richland.

He alleges he was denied

boarding. He spoke with staff at

BFT. He brought the complaint

to the attention of BFT

management. He was referred to

BFT’s attorney.

Closed

A telephone conversation occurred

between the complainant and BFT’s

attorney about the matter. The customer

was advised about how this type of a

situation would be handled in the future.

He indicated that that was OK. He also

indicated that he was moving and was

probably not going to be in the Tri-City

area much longer. The file was closed.


ATTACHMENT E Table Depicting Minority Representation on Committees and Councils

BFT has two transit-related, non-elected advisory councils: the Citizens Advisory Council and the Dial-A-Ride Advisory Council. The Dial-A-Ride Advisory Council meets quarterly and the Citizens Advisory Council meets monthly.

Body Caucasian Latino African

American Asian

American Native

American

Native Hawaiian &

Pacific Islander

Reporting two or more

Races

Population 63% 30% 2% 3% 1% 0.3% 3%

Citizens Advisory Council

100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%

Dial-A-Ride Advisory Council

100% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%

Total = 12 CAC Members As of May 1, 2016, there is no minority representation on our Citizens Advisory Council or Dial-A-Ride Advisory Council. It should be noted that both groups actively recruit and continue to reach out to community groups (such as Broche Orchards) to find additional diverse individuals to represent CAC and help provide experience and ideas to better BFT services. CAC keeps applications and information in both English and Spanish on BFT’s website about the need for additional members and encourages participation. Examples of these documents can be found on subsequent pages.


The CAC meets monthly on the 2nd Monday in the BFT Administration Building Board Room at 1000 Columbia Park Trail as follows:

6:00 p.m. Jan/Mar/Apr/Jun/July/Sept/Oct/Dec

6:30 p.m. Feb/May/Aug/Nov

The CAC advocates for public transit and serves as a resource to the

Ben Franklin Transit General Manager & to the Board of Directors

The CAC’s focus is to improve quality of service for transit riders,

to offer suggestions and give feedback.

CAC’s Accomplishments…

Provides value to BFT as sounding board for BFT proposals such as budget, route/service changes and fare changes

Makes recommendations to Staff to improve Fixed Route efficiency

Holds yearly BFT Board/CAC Roundtable to get to know Board members

Dial-A-Ride Subcommittee meets quarterly to review proposals and contribute ideas for DAR efficiency

What You Can Do for the CAC…

Provide input on proposed budget, route & service changes and fare changes

Become informed on local, state & national transit legislative issues

Become knowledgeable of how local sales tax revenues affect transit operations

Get to know BFT Staff and Board members

Learn how BFT compares to other transits across the nation

If you would like to be an advocate for transit,

PLEASE APPLY TODAY.

Fill out and return application on back of flyer to Customer

Service.

Application is also available on bft.org, or by calling 734-5126.

Ben Franklin Transit’s Citizens Advisory Committee

seeking new members Note: Interest areas listed below need representation

City of Pasco (do you live in Pasco?)

City of Richland (do you live in Richland?)

City of Prosser (do you live in Prosser?)

City of Benton City (do you live in Benton City?)

BFT Disabled Fixed-Route Bus User

Educational Community or Parent Organization

Ethnic Community Organization

Financial Community

Major Employer

Medical Community Staff

Private for-profit senior/disabled provider

Student, High School—Pasco, Kenn, Finley, BCity

Student, Post-Secondary


Comité Consultivo de Ciudadanos (CAC) de Ben Franklin Transit

busca nuevos miembros Note: Las áreas de interés que se listan necesitan representación Ciudad de Pasco (¿vive en Pasco?)

Ciudad de Richland (¿vive en Richland?)

Ciudad de Prosser (¿vive en Prosser?)

Ciudad de Benton City (¿vive en Benton City?)

Usador discapacitado de Autobús de Ruta-Fija de BFT

Comunidad Educativa u Organización de Padres

Organización de Comunidad Étnica

Comunidad de Financias

Gran Empleador

Personal de la Comunidad Medica

Proveedor de edad avanzada/ discapacitadas privado con fines de

lucro

Estudiante, Preparatoria—Pasco, Kennewick, Finley, Benton City

Estudiante, Educación Superior

Las reuniones del CAC se realizan el segundo lunes de cada mes en la Sala de Juntas en el Edificio Administrativo en 1000 Columbia Park Trail como sigue:

6:00 pm Ene/Mzo/Abr/Jun/Jul/Sept/Oct/Dic 6:30pm Feb/May/Ago/Nov

El CAC defiende el transporte público y sirve como un recurso para el Gerente

General y a la Junta Administrativa de Ben Franklin Transit.

El foco del CAC es mejorar la calidad del servicio para los usuarios de los

autobuses, para ofrecer sugerencias y hacer observaciones.

Los logros del CAC…

Proporciona valor a BFT como audiencia para las propuestas de BFT así como presupuestos, cambios de ruta/ servicio y cambios en las tarifas

Hace recomendaciones al personal para mejorar la eficiencia de Ruta Fija

Sostiene deliberaciones anuales entre la Junta Administrativa y el CAC para conocer los miembros de la Junta.

El Subcomité de Dial-A-Ride se reúne trimestralmente para revisar las propuestas y contribuir ideas para el ahorro de DAR.

Lo que puede hacer para el CAC…

Proporcionar información sobre el proyecto de presupuesto, rutas y cambios al servicio y cambios a las tarifas

Infórmese sobre las cuestiones legislativas de transito locales, estatales y nacionales

Adquirir conocimientos de como los ingresos por impuestos de ventas locales afectan a las operaciones del transito

Conocer el Personal de BFT y los miembros de la Junta

Aprenda como BFT compara con otros tránsitos de todo el país.

Si usted le gustaría ser un defensor de los autobuses,

POR FAVOR APLIQUE A HOY.

Llene y entregue la aplicación de tras del folleto a la Oficina de

Servicio al Cliente.

Aplicaciones también serán disponibles en www.bft.org, o

llamando al 734-5126.


http://www.bft.org/

Ben Franklin Transit 1000 Columbia Park Trail Richland, WA 99352-4851 www.bft.org 509-735-4131 Fax (509)735-1800

A P P L I C A T I O N for Citizens Advisory Committee

I. NAME ________________________ ADDRESS ________________________

EMAIL_________________________ CITY/ZIP ________________________

Phone: Day: ________Wk: _________ Cell: _________ FAX ___________

II. CURRENT OCCUPATION/ EMPLOYER _______________________________

III. REPRESENTATIVE INTEREST From the attached list, please indicate which municipal group/agency/or area

of community focus you are qualified to represent—You may list more than one:

1.__________________________________________________

2.__________________________________________________

IV. Do YOU currently use BFT services? __ Yes __ No

Which mode do you use? (Check all that apply)

__Regular transit __Dial-A-Ride __Vanpool __Taxi-Feeder __Night Service Check how often: __ Frequent (+2 times/wk) __ Sometimes (1-4 times/mo) __ Rarely (1-12 times/year)

V. What is your purpose in applying to be a member of the CAC? VI. What can you contribute to this committee?

Signature______________________________________Date_______________________

The Citizens Advisory Committee serves strictly as volunteers in an advisory capacity to the BFT Board and General Manager. CAC Meetings are held the 2nd Monday of the month in the Admin Bldg

Board Room at 1000 Columbia Park Trail on the following schedule and visitors are welcome to attend: 6:30pm Feb/May/Aug/Nov

6:00pm Dec/Jan/Mar/Apr/Jun/July/Sept/Oct.


http://www.bft.org/

APLICACIÓN PARA

COMITÉ CONSULTIVO DE

CIUDADANOS (CAC)

Ben Franklin Transit 1000 Columbia Park Trail Richland, WA 99352-4851 www.bft.org 509-735-4131 Fax (509)735-1800

I. NOMBRE_______________________ DOMICILIO________________________

EMAIL_________________________ CIUDAD/CODIGO________________________

Teléfono: Día: __________ Trabajo: ___________ Cel: ___________ FAX __________

IV. OCUPACION/ EMPLEADOR PRESENTE ______________________________

V. INTERÉS REPRESENTANTE En la lista adjunta, por favor indique que grupo municipal/ agencia/ o área de

enfoque en la comunidad que este calificado para representar—Se puede listar más de

uno:

1.__________________________________________________

2.__________________________________________________

IV. ¿Utiliza actualmente los servicios de BFT? __ Sí __ No

¿Cuál modo utiliza? (Marque todos los que apliquen) __Autobús Regular __Dial-A-Ride __Vanpool __Taxi-Feeder __Servicio Nocturno Marque la frecuencia: __ Frecuente (+2 veces/semana) __ A Veces (1-4 veces/mes) __ Raramente (1-12 veces/año)

V. ¿Cuál es su propósito en la aplicación para ser miembro del CAC? VI. ¿Qué puede contribuir a este comité? Firma ______________________________________ Fecha_______________________

El Comité Consultivo de Ciudadanos sirve estrictamente como voluntarios a titulo consultivo a la Junta Directiva y Gerente General de BFT. Las reuniones del CAC se realizan el segundo lunes de cada mes en la Sala de Juntas en el

Edificio Administrativo en 1000 Columbia Park Trail en el siguiente calendario y los visitantes están invitados a asistir: 6:30pm Feb/May/Ago/Nov

6:00pm Dic/Ene/Mzo/Abr/Jun/Jul/Sept/Oct


http://www.bft.org/

ATTACHMENT F Service Standards

Overview

The following document describes series of system wide service standards that fulfill the service standard requirements in FTA Title VI. Title VI requires all fixed route transit providers to develop quantitative standards for all fixed route modes of operation for the indicators listed below. The following is what is required taken directly from Title VI Circular FTA C 4702.1B.

Objective

Monitor Vehicle Load metrics for each mode and methods to ensure compliance

Monitor Vehicle Headway metrics for each mode and methods to ensure compliance

Monitor On-Time Performance metrics for each mode and methods to ensure compliance

Monitor Service Availability for each mode and methods to ensure compliance

Monitor distribution of Transit Amenities for each mode and methods to ensure compliance

Monitor Vehicle Assignment for each mode and methods to ensure compliance

Opportunity

To better serve our community

Standards in which to make cohesive decisions on services

Ensure compliance of Title VI

VEHICLE LOAD FOR EACH MODE

BFT has adopted a Load Standard of 1.25 for all loads during the peak operating period and should not exceed the vehicles achievable capacities, of 38 passengers for a 30’ bus, 47 passengers for a 35’ bus, and 55 passengers for a 40’ bus.

Vehicle Type

Capacity Seated Standing Total Max Load

Factor

30' Bus 31 31 7 38 1.25

35' Bus 38 38 9 47 1.25

40' Bus 44 44 11 55 1.25


VEHICLE HEADWAY FOR EACH MODE

Currently BFT route headways are adjusted based on ridership demand and market potential, using load factors, productivity, and development growth to inform the planning process. Current vehicle headways are 30 to 60 minutes. Headways on routes that travel through multiple cities are 60 to 120 minutes due to the larger distances routes are traveling to capture the total service area.

ON-TIME PERFORMANCE FOR EACH MODE

On-time performance varies from mode to mode. Currently Fixed Route operates between 0 and 5 minutes before a Fixed Route bus is considered late. Demand Response operates between 0 and 15 minutes before a Demand Response Para-Transit vehicle is considered to be late.

SERVICE AVAILABILITY FOR EACH MODE

BFT’s Service Availability Standard is measured based on the population living within a ½ mile walking distance. BFT’s Public Transit Benefit Area’s population is approximately 246,149. BFT serves an estimated 82%, or 204,180 (82%) people within ½ walking distance from fixed route services. The other 18% has partial access via taxi feeder services. This methodology is used for conducting service and fare equity analysis Para-Transit services the same area including an additional 3/4 mile from the service boundary.


ATTACHMENT G Service Policies

VEHICLE ASSIGNMENT FOR EACH MODE

Vehicles will be assigned to routes based on ridership capacity and anticipated need for capacity. Same size vehicles are used interchangeably when daily route assignments are made. Thus, newer vehicles circulate in poorer and richer neighborhoods alike. Vanpool vehicles are assigned to groups based on the size of their group.

DISTRIBUTION OF TRANSIT AMENITIES FOR EACH MODE

The investment and equitable distribution of transit amenities by Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) is predicated on several factors. The main factor taken into consideration is ridership demand, which is driven by existing and projected development in the communities BFT serves. BFT’s service area contains a multitude of jurisdictions, including 6 cities spread across 2 counties. Each jurisdiction has differing development patterns and standards. Considering the lack of consistent development adjacent to BFT fixed routes, policies that dictate transit amenity distribution often can’t be applied uniformly across BFT’s service area. With that said, it is BFT’s obligation to ensure that there is an equitable distribution of transit amenities to the best of the agency’s ability. This obligation is fulfilled through BFT’s adherence to the service policies described herein that dictate amenity distribution, along with the Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index point-system.

I. Transit Amenity Distribution Policies

When possible, BFT’s Transit Amenity Distribution Policies are referenced to encourage equitable distribution of transit amenities. Given the nature of BFT’s service area, situations may arise where equitable distribution of amenities is hindered due to lack of the appropriate infrastructure to provide accessible service. It may also be the case that the jurisdictions, home-owners, business owners or property owners do not allow the installation of the necessary infrastructure needed to provide accessible service.


Transit amenity distribution is in part dictated by the policies defined below:

Table 11. Transit Amenity Distribution Policies

Service Policy Distributions Policy Stipulations

System-Wide Transit Amenities Transit amenity distribution is based on stop usage in terms of weekday boardings and proximity to ridership anchors, with variances to this policy based on what local jurisdictions will allow. Ridership anchors include schools, hospitals, employment centers, shopping centers, downtown cores and point of interests that attract high pedestrian traffic.

Placement of Bus Stops BFT’s Bus Stop Guidelines provide more detail on amenities and are based on WSDOT’s Bus Stop Guidelines. Bus Stops are placed based on several factors. Distance from other bus stops and surrounding locations factor as to where bus stops are placed. Another important factor is whether there is existing infrastructure along the route that could accommodate a bus stop, such as 5’ x 8’ concrete pads to provide ADA access and/or existing light or signage poles erected by the local jurisdiction.

Signage at Bus Stop The majority of BFT bus stops have a sign indicating the routes that serve that specific location. There are various “flag stops” (stops without signage) in rural or low-traffic areas of our PTBA.

Benches at Bus Stop Benches are located at or considered for stops that:

Receive an above average weekday boarding count.

Serve as a transfer point between one or more of BFT’s fixed routes.

Are located adjacent to facilities that are frequented by riders with limited mobility.

Have adequate space and existing infrastructure that allow for bench installation.

Are in a location where the governing jurisdiction approves the installation of bench(s).

In a location where there is low frequency of fixed route services and passengers may be required to wait for longer than normal durations.


Table 11. Transit Amenity Distribution Policies

Service Policy Distributions Policy Stipulations

Shelters and Kiosks at Bus Stops Shelters and kiosks are located at or considered for stops that:

Receive average weekday boarding counts that far exceed the system average.

Serve as a transfer point between one or more of BFT’s fixed routes.

Are located adjacent to facilities that are frequented by riders with limited mobility.

Service Information at Bus Stops Schedules are located at Transit Centers and on signage for bus stops that are defined as time-points within BFT’s fixed route schedules.

Bicycle Facilities/Infrastructure Bicycle facilities are currently located at two BFT transit centers, Knight Street and Huntington Transit Centers. The need for bicycle infrastructure will be addressed in the 2017 On-Board survey to determine if future installation of bicycle racks and storage are necessary.

All BFT fixed route buses are equipped with a bike racks located on the front of the bus. The rack can accommodate 2 to 3 bikes depending on which rack design is mounted on the vehicle. Future distribution of bicycle amenities will be determined by perceived need for such facilities and the proximity of transit centers and stops to “bike-friendly” infrastructure.

Flag Stops Flag stops are provided at locations along routes that serve areas of low density and/or locations that may be too close to existing stops to necessitate the installation of signage. Flag stops are implemented based on requests and observed demand.

II. Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index

It is BFT’s intention to use the agency’s limited resources to distribute and improve amenities at locations based on an order of priority. Prioritization of transit amenities distribution is determined by a point system used to gauge the necessity and projected utilization of potential transit amenities. BFT refers to this point system as the Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index. The Index is applied to the distribution of posted stops, shelters, benches, and waste receptacles. The Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index is applied on a monthly basis during BFT’s Service Enhancement Committee meeting. This analysis is meant to determine if transit amenity proposals and requests are viable and fit the criteria necessary to ensure that transit amenities are accessible and distributed equitably. All proposals and requests fielded during the past month are assessed by the


Service Enhancement Committee and a Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index Scorecard is completed to document the assessment. The total points allotted during the assessment determine if a bus stop or amenity request is fulfilled.

i. Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index Criteria

The following table details the Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index system and the criteria that are taken in to account when determining transit amenity distribution and enhancement:

Table 12. Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index

Points Awarded Bus Stop Evaluation Criteria

0 to 10 points Ridership & Transfer Criteria:

Location is a Transit center, transfer point, and/or a location that generates high boarding counts.

0 to 5 points Activity Criteria:

Location is in close proximity to an area of medium- to high-density commercial and residential development. High density, in this case, would include downtown cores, multi-unit residential dwellings, high-rise office buildings, shopping centers, sports arenas, high schools, and colleges.

0 to 3 points ADA Criteria:

Locations in close proximity to facilities that specifically cater to or house individuals that are elderly and/or have physical or mental disabilities (e.g., senior centers, retirement homes, hospitals, medical offices).

0 to 3 points Spatial Distribution Criteria:

Requested stop is in a location that is over 0.5 miles from existing bus stops and/or is located near a Park & Ride facility.

0 to 2 points Temporal Criteria:

Stops at which customers must wait more than 30 minutes between buses.

0 to 2 points Requisition Criteria:

Members of the public, customer service staff, bus operator, or other outside source requested the amenity(s) or new stop placement.


Table 12. Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index

Points Awarded Bus Stop Evaluation Criteria

0 to 2 points Development Outlook Criteria:

Location that has been designated for future middle-to-high density growth and/or for the construction of multi-unit residential dwellings, high-rise office buildings, shopping centers, sports arenas, high schools, and/or colleges.

ii. Bus Stop Viability & Enhancement Index Classifications

Classification 1: High Capacity Transit Stops and Transfer Centers (15 to 20 Points)

This classification is given to transfer centers where 4 or more routes converge and transit stops which generate a high volume of ridership. Potential stops that accumulate 15 or more transit Improvement points fall within this classification. Requirements:

Bus pull-off lane (where applicable)

Bus stop sign(s)

Shelter(s)

Bench(s)

Garbage can(s)

Lighting in accordance with jurisdictional code

Schedule(s)

Route maps and service information

ADA Infrastructure: o Areas for passenger-loading pad. o The shelter should provide a 5-foot diameter turning space for patrons utilizing a

wheelchair. Classification 2: Medium Capacity Transit Stops (10 to 15 points)

This classification is given to transit stops which provide service to or have the potential to generate a medium volume of ridership. Potential stops that accumulate 10 or more transit Improvement points fall within this classification. Requirements:

Bus pull-off lane (where applicable)

Bus stop sign(s)

Shelter(s)

Bench(s)

Garbage can(s)

Lighting in accordance with jurisdictional code

Schedule(s) if identified as time point


ADA Infrastructure: o Areas for passenger-loading pad. o The shelter should provide a 5-foot diameter turning space for patrons utilizing a

wheelchair. Classification 3: Average Capacity Transit Stops (6 to 10 points)

This classification is given to transit stops which provide service to or have the potential to generate an average to low volume of ridership. Potential stops that accumulate 6 or more transit Improvement points fall within this classification. Requirements:

Bus stop sign(s)

Schedue(s) if identified as time point ADA Infrastructure:

o Areas for passenger-loading pad. o The shelter should provide a 5-foot diameter turning space for patrons utilizing a

wheelchair. Classification 4: Urban/Suburban Low Capacity Transit Stops (3 to 6 points)

This classification is given to transit stops which provide service to or have the potential to generate a low volume of ridership. Potential stops that accumulate less than 6 transit Improvement points fall within this classification. Requirements:

Schedule(s) if identified as time point

Bus stop sign(s) Classification 5: Rural Low Capacity Transit Stops (Less than 3 points)

Flag stops are located in areas that are rural in nature and/or where no infrastructure exists to place a stop. Flag Stops are also placed in locations as temporary stops if requested by members of the public. The use of Flag Stops is vital to BFT due to the low density and rural characteristics of much of the service area.

Table 13. Stop Classifications Matrix

Class Posted Stops Benches Garbage Shelters

Class 1 X X X X

Class 2 X X X

Class 3 X X

Class 4 X

Class 5


ATTACHMENT H Fixed Route Facilities Distribution


ATTACHMENT I Demographic Profile and Travel Patterns

According to the Washington State Office of Financial Management, Forecasting and Research Division, BFT’s PTBA includes 246,149 people. Currently BFT serves an estimated 82.9% or 204,180 people within a 1/2 mile walking distance from fixed route services; the remaining 17.1% have partial access through taxi feeder services. Utilizing demographic maps, Census data, and ridership surveys, travel patterns indicated that 79% of all ridership utilizes BFT services 4 to 6 days a week. In addition to this information BFT ridership is very dependent upon this service as 83% of riders have no access to any type of automobile. Data indicates that riders utilize transit services for multiple reasons, but the highest numbers indicate school followed by personal business. The primary minority population for Benton and Franklin County is the Hispanic population. Overall, the highest levels of BFT service are provided in Pasco and Kennewick, where minority populations comprise a greater percentage of the total population. According to Census and demographic data, currently 87.9% of the minority population has immediate access to transit services and falls within the 1/2 mile service area. The remaining 12.1% minority population outside the 1/2 mile service area has limited access to taxi feeder services. According to ridership data, numbers indicate that 62% of rider’s income is less than $20,000 a year. Based upon the Census data Benton and Franklin county persons below poverty level is 15.6% and median income for Benton and Franklin County is $60,587 and $56,719 respectively. Comparing the following data, BFT’s primary ridership is well below half the median income level. Demographic maps show that service level encompasses low income riders and that a large majority is well inside the 1/2 mile boundary. Overall, the low income groups in Benton and Franklin Counties is very small, considering 83.5% of the entire community is above the poverty level. The table below indicates minority and non-minority population percentages within the 1/2 mile boundary and the percentage that is outside the boundary.

Households Within 1/2 mile More than 1/2 Mile

Minority 87.9% 12.1%

Non-Minority 63.8% 36.2%

System 82.9% 17.1%


Minority Population Esitmate 1/2 Mile Buffer


PTBA Minority Population Estimate


Hispanic Origin Demographic Map


Black Population Demographic Map


Low-Income Demographic Map


ATTACHMENT J Requirement to Monitor Transit Service

Standard #1: Load Factor Monitoring

The following data, tables, and maps are provided as examples of how BFT assesses performance standards and policies involving groups identified by race, color, or national origin. Vehicles are assigned to routes based on ridership capacity and anticipated need for capacity. Same size vehicles are used interchangeably when daily route assignments are made. Thus, newer vehicles circulate in poorer and richer neighborhoods alike. Furthermore, due to an aging fleet BFT has to take maintenance and repairs into bus designation. The following data is captured during one weekday for the entire fleet as part of BFT’s quarterly Load Factor Analysis. Data was compiled and averages were used during AM peak times, 7:30 am to 9:30 am, Midday times; 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and PM peak times; 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm to calculate results. Times vary +/- 15 minutes as each run can have different arrival and end times. Table 1 shows passenger capacities for each of the bus sizes, times that data was captured, how many riders during the time period, and BFT’s current load factor standard.

Table 1: Load Factor Analysis by Vehicle Type

Vehicle Type

Time Capacity Seated Standing Total Load

Standard Max Load

Factor

30' Bus AM Peak 31 12 0 12 0.4 1.25

30' Bus Midday 31 13 0 13 0.4 1.25

30' Bus PM Peak 31 16 0 16 0.5 1.25

35' Bus AM Peak 38 15 0 15 0.4 1.25

35' Bus Midday 38 16 0 16 0.4 1.25

35' Bus PM Peak 38 17 0 17 0.4 1.25

40' Bus AM Peak 44 20 0 20 0.5 1.25

40' Bus Midday 44 22 0 22 0.5 1.25

40' Bus PM Peak 44 24 0 24 0.5 1.25

As suggested in the sample section of Circular 4702.1B BFT has included a more sensitive set of analysis by including load standards by individual route which is shown below in Table 2. Shaded cells represent routes serving areas with minority populations above the service area average.


Table 2: Load Factor Analysis by Route

Route Time Capacity Seated Standing Total Load

Standard Max Load

Factor

23 AM Peak 38 16 0 16 0.42 1.25

23 PM Peak 38 19 0 19 0.50 1.25

23 Midday 38 18 0 18 0.47 1.25

25 AM Peak 38 15 0 15 0.39 1.25

25 PM Peak 38 11 0 11 0.29 1.25

25 Midday 38 9 0 9 0.24 1.25

26 AM Peak 37 8 0 8 0.22 1.25

26 PM Peak 37 13 0 13 0.35 1.25

26 Midday 37 15 0 15 0.41 1.25

39 AM Peak 23 14 0 14 0.61 1.25

39H PM Peak 23 10 0 10 0.43 1.25

39H Midday 23 13 0 13 0.57 1.25

39K AM Peak 23 9 0 9 0.39 1.25

39K PM Peak 23 10 0 10 0.43 1.25

39K Midday 23 10 0 10 0.43 1.25

41 AM Peak 37 4 0 4 0.11 1.25

41 PM Peak 37 8 0 8 0.22 1.25

41 Midday 37 10 0 10 0.27 1.25

42 AM Peak 37 10 0 10 0.27 1.25

42 PM Peak 37 12 0 12 0.32 1.25

42 Midday 37 13 0 13 0.35 1.25

47 AM Peak 38 3 0 3 0.08 1.25

47 PM Peak 38 6 0 6 0.16 1.25

47 Midday 38 11 0 11 0.29 1.25

48 AM Peak 23 5 0 5 0.22 1.25

48 PM Peak 23 6 0 6 0.26 1.25

48 Midday 23 10 0 10 0.43 1.25

50 AM Peak 23 6 0 6 0.26 1.25

50 PM Peak 23 8 0 8 0.35 1.25

50 Midday 23 8 0 8 0.35 1.25

60 AM Peak 37 7 0 7 0.19 1.25

60 PM Peak 37 8 0 8 0.22 1.25

60 Midday 37 9 0 9 0.24 1.25

62 AM Peak 37 10 0 10 0.27 1.25

62 PM Peak 37 16 0 16 0.43 1.25

62 Midday 37 12 0 12 0.32 1.25

64 AM Peak 38 6 0 6 0.16 1.25


Route Time Capacity Seated Standing Total Load

Standard Max Load

Factor

64 PM Peak 38 12 0 12 0.32 1.25

64 Midday 38 5 0 5 0.13 1.25

65 AM Peak 37 11 0 11 0.30 1.25

65 PM Peak 37 10 0 10 0.27 1.25

65 Midday 37 5 0 5 0.14 1.25

66 AM Peak 37 6 0 6 0.16 1.25

66 PM Peak 37 4 0 4 0.11 1.25

66 Midday 37 8 0 8 0.22 1.25

67 AM Peak 37 5 0 5 0.14 1.25

67 PM Peak 37 7 0 7 0.19 1.25

67 Midday 37 12 0 12 0.32 1.25

110 AM Peak 23 4 0 4 0.17 1.25

110 PM Peak 23 5 0 5 0.22 1.25

110 Midday 23 5 0 5 0.22 1.25

120 AM Peak 37 26 0 26 0.70 1.25

120 PM Peak 37 29 0 29 0.78 1.25

120 Midday 37 35 0 35 0.95 1.25

160 AM Peak 37 17 0 17 0.46 1.25

160 PM Peak 37 30 0 30 0.81 1.25

160 Midday 37 20 0 20 0.54 1.25

170 AM Peak 37 14 0 14 0.38 1.25

170 PM Peak 37 8 0 8 0.22 1.25

170 Midday 37 9 0 9 0.24 1.25

225 AM Peak 37 14 0 14 0.38 1.25

225 PM Peak 37 14 0 14 0.38 1.25

225 Midday 37 13 0 13 0.35 1.25

815 AM Peak 38 0 0 0 0.00 1.25

815 PM Peak 38 0 0 0 0.00 1.25

815 Midday 38 0 0 0 0.00 1.25

Based upon the 2010 U.S Census data by block group, the following shaded routes have the highest percentage of minority populations served compared to the median percentage of populations within the agency service area.


Table 3: Load Factor Analysis by Minority Routes

Route Minority Population

Percentage by Route *

AM Peak Midday PM Peak

Load Avg Load Load Avg Load Load Avg Load

23 13% 0.81 19 0.81 19 0.68 17

25 9% 0.49 12 0.56 12 0.45 10

26 15% 0.43 15 0.37 14 0.35 14

39H 11% 0.41 10 0.50 12 0.44 11

39K 10% 0.33 8 0.49 12 0.47 11

41 26% 0.25 7 0.33 11 0.33 9

42 36% 0.32 11 0.50 16 0.51 17

47 18% 0.30 7 0.40 9 0.49 12

48 21% 0.36 9 0.46 11 0.44 11

50 12% 0.23 5 0.52 11 0.51 12

60 81% 0.26 9 0.27 10 0.22 8

62 80% 0.46 11 0.56 15 0.57 16

64 92% 0.25 8 0.34 12 0.20 8

65 92% 0.38 11 0.47 15 0.31 11

66 33% 0.29 9 0.28 9 0.27 10

67 42% 0.30 9 0.30 10 0.37 14

110 12% 0.20 5 0.33 7 0.25 6

120 22% 0.74 29 0.88 34 1.02 40

160 43% 0.68 24 0.92 33 1.00 37

170 18% 0.29 11 0.29 11 0.28 11

225 46% 0.52 17 0.50 17 0.57 19

815 29% 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.02 1

System Average 0.38 11 0.46 14 0.44 14

* System Average 32% of ridership comes from minorities

None of the routes exceeded the vehicle load standard put into place by BFT during morning, midday or afternoon times.

Standard #2: Vehicle Headway Monitoring

The following data presented in Table 1 and Table 2 is the average headway broken up by AM peak, PM peak, and Midday periods. Routes have been identified as minority routes based on their proximity to minority populations and concentration of said populations. 2010 U.S Census Block Group data was used to quantify minority populations.


Table 1: Weekday Headway by Route

Weekday Minority

% Service Begins

AM Midday PM Service Ends Operating

Hours

23 13% 6:15 AM 34 31 33 6:08 PM 11.8

25 9% 6:15 AM 28 30 30 6:05 PM 11.8

26 15% 6:15 AM 24 29 25 6:31 PM 12.3

39 Hills 11% 6:15 AM 41 42 42 6:05 PM 11.8

39 Keene 10% 6:00 AM 43 47 45 6:35 PM 12.6

41 26% 6:00 AM 26 33 28 6:20 PM 12.3

42 36% 6:00 AM 25 28 26 6:16 PM 12.3

47 18% 6:00 AM 26 30 26 6:18 PM 12.3

48 21% 6:00 AM 26 30 29 6:18 PM 12.3

50 12% 6:30 AM 26 27 27 6:17 PM 11.5

60 81% 6:00 AM 29 30 30 6:25 PM 12.4

62 80% 6:00 AM 29 30 37 6:25 PM 12.4

64 92% 6:00 AM 33 35 34 6:25 PM 12.4

65 92% 6:00 AM 24 25 27 6:20 PM 12.3

66 33% 5:45 AM 26 29 28 6:42 PM 13.0

67 42% 6:00 AM 29 30 28 6:43 PM 12.7

110 12% 6:00 AM 27 28 32 6:22 PM 12.4

120 22% 5:58 AM 27 30 25 6:28 PM 12.5

160 43% 6:00 AM 26 30 27 6:30 PM 12.5

170 18% 5:37 AM 70 120 114 6:52 PM 13.5

225 46% 6:00 AM 26 28 27 6:28 PM 12.5

815 29% 9:00 AM

Minority Route 10 5:45 AM 28 30 30 6:43 PM 13

Non-Minority Route

12 5:37 AM 33 39 37 6:52 PM 13.5

Total System 22 5:37 AM 31 35 34 6:52 PM 13.5

Weekday data gathered shows that on average minority lines during AM, PM, and Midday times were all lower, meaning that more frequent service was provided than on non-minority routes. Service span was higher on non-minority routes, but only by a small margin of 16 minutes. Frequent service lines show that there are more non-minority lines (13) than minority lines (8), but this is not due to inadequate coverage of the service area shown by our demographic maps, but the fact that a large portion of our minority population lives in such a confined area of our service area instead of spread out throughout the system.


Table 2: Saturday Headway by Route

Saturday Service Begins

AM Peak Headway Minutes

Midday Headway Minutes

PM Peak Headway Minutes

Service Ends

Operating Hours

25 8:23 AM 33 33 33 6:05 PM 9.7

27 8:15 AM 24 27 27 6:32 PM 10.3

39 Hills 8:15 AM 40 42 42 6:05 PM 9.8

39 Keene 8:00 AM 45 47 47 6:35 PM 10.6

41 8:30 AM 27 33 27 6:20 PM 9.9

42 8:00 AM 26 27 22 6:15 PM 10.3

47 8:30 AM 26 30 30 6:18 PM 9.8

48 8:30 AM 26 30 30 6:18 AM 9.8

50 9:00 AM 27 30 30 6:17 PM 9.3

60 8:00 AM 29 30 30 6:25 PM 10.4

62 8:00 AM 29 30 30 6:25 PM 10.4

64 8:00 AM 28 30 30 6:20 PM 10.3

65 8:00 AM 28 30 30 6:20 PM 10.3

67 8:00 AM 28 30 25 6:25 PM 10.4

120 7:58 AM 24 30 26 6:41 PM 10.7

160 8:00 AM 23 20 25 6:30 PM 10.5

170 9:15 AM 153 153 7:08 PM 9.9

225 8:00 AM 26 30 28 6:30 PM 10.5

Minority Route 9 8:00 AM 28 30 28 6:25 PM 10.4

Non-Minority Route

10 7:58 AM 41 32 43 7:08 PM 11.2

Total System 18 7:58 AM 36 31 37 7:08 PM 11.2

Saturday data gathered shows that on average minority lines during AM, PM, and Midday times were all lower, meaning that more frequent service was provided than on non-minority lines. Service span was higher on non-minority lines, but only by a margin of 43 minutes. While this gap seems large, the route which runs until 7:08 pm is due to the distance in which it travels as shown by the headways of over two and half hours. Frequent service lines show that there are more non-minority lines (11) than minority lines (7), but this is not due to inadequate coverage of the service area shown by our demographic maps, but the fact that a large portion of our minority population lives in such a confined area of our service area instead of spread out throughout the system. Routes are adjusted for Saturday service to increase efficiency and ensure that it follows the trend of the ridership. While the non-minority lines were reduced by 2 lines, minority lines were only reduced by 1.


Table 3: Headways for Weekday Minority & Non-Minority Lines

Table 4: Headways for Saturday Minority & Non-Minority Lines

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

Min

ute

s

Frequency of Service

Saturday Headway

Minority

Non-Minority

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

Min

ute

s

Frequency of Service

Weekday Headway

Minority

Non-Minority


Standard #3: On-Time Performance Monitoring

BFT conducts On-Time Performance monitoring of the routes on a quarterly basis. On-Time Performance monitoring is conducted during AM peaks and PM peaks at the Richland’s Knight Street Transit Center, Pasco’s 22nd Ave Transit Center, west Kennewick’s 3 Rivers Transit Center, and east Kennewick’s Dayton Transfer Point. The assessment is conducted by multiple staff members who observe and monitor a total of 54 different scheduled arrival times. Performance for the peak routes showed that 49% of routes observed arrived early, 44% arrived at the scheduled time, and 6% arrived late. Routes pulled out no later than one minute past scheduled time. No matter how early routes arrive, none of the routes will pull before their scheduled leave time to ensure customers are able to complete their transfers. The tables below are examples of On-Time Performance metrics collected at BFTs 4 main transit centers:

Table 1: Weekday On-Time Performance 2013-2015 Average

Standard #4: Service Availability Monitoring

Based upon the Census data for 2010, Benton & Franklin Counties combined has a total population of 253,340. Boundary maps indicate there are 205,446 people inside BFT’s service area indicating that 81% of all riders are within walking distance of stops or stations. Since the highest levels of BFT service is provided in Pasco and Kennewick which comprises a greater percentage of the total minority population.

Households Within 1/2 mile More than 1/2 Mile

Minority 87.9% 12.1%

Non-Minority 63.8% 36.2%

System 82.9% 17.1%

Census Data 2010 Benton & Franklin County Combined

Early On-Time Late

Percentage 49% 44% 6%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%


BFT PTBA 1/2 Mile from Routes


BFT Prosser Service 1/2 Mile Buffer


Standard #5: Vehicle Assignment Monitoring

Vehicles will be assigned to routes based on ridership capacity and anticipated need for capacity. Same size vehicles are used interchangeably when daily route assignments are made. Thus, newer vehicles circulate in low-income and more affluent neighborhoods alike. Table 1 shows the average year and age of our entire fleet, while Table 2 is a random sample of the average year of bus serving Pasco, Richland, West Kennewick and East Kennewick. Due to a large service area, BFT buses will travel through most the Tri-Cities without serving just one specific location, limiting the chance for any type of impact based upon race, color, national origin, or income level.

Table 1: Age by Service Vehicle

Make Length Fuel Year Range of Vehicle Numbers

Qty

Gilligs 35 ft. Diesel 1995 269, 271-272 3

Gilligs 40 ft. Diesel 1995 277 1

Gilligs 40 ft. Diesel 1999 284-304 18

Opus 30 ft. Diesel 2003 501-506 5

Opus 30 ft. Diesel 2004 507-509 3






Gilligs 40 ft. Electric 2013 E1 1



Average Date of Purchase

2006 Average Age

of Buses 10 yrs Average Date of Purchase 2006


Table 2: Age by Route & City

Pasco Kennewick Richland

Route Bus Year Route Bus Year Route Bus Year

60 314 2014 42 263 2009 23 246 2005

62 315 2014 47 263 2009 25 509 2004

64 318 2014 48 507 2004 26 262 2009

65 317 2014 48 503 2003 225 318 2014

66 259 2009 50 254 2007 120E 311 2013

67 310 2013 110 257 2007 120W 308 2013

120 306 2013 120E 306 2013 39H 255 2007

160 325 2015 120W 308 2013

225 318 2014 160E 324 2015

160W 325 2015

39H 247 2005

Averages: 2013 2009 2009

Standard #6: Transit Amenities Monitoring

BFT has two staff members that update and monitor an amenities database with all of our transit information listed below in Table 3. Both staff members also work with facility maintenance and the community on adding stops by request from riders unless there is a conflict with a business, resident, or the city stops are added.


Table 3: Amenities by Route

Route Posted Stops

Flag Stops Shelters Benches Kiosks Garbage

Cans

23 37 8 5 12 8 5

25 31 7 1 5 4 5

26 45 11 8 10 8 11

27 29 3 4 8 6 7

39 H 43 12 12 4 6 8

39 K 15 1 0 2 0 0

41 67 5 1 4 2 6

42 53 0 5 3 3 10

47 51 1 4 6 5 9

48 50 2 2 6 1 7

50 22 1 3 1 1 7

60 26 10 3 3 2 11

62 26 2 5 8 2 11

64 23 0 1 3 1 1

65 18 1 1 4 1 4

66 20 4 0 2 5 1

67 53 17 1 6 4 7

110 47 4 5 2 7 8

120 95 19 16 23 11 37

160 87 4 9 12 9 22

170 34 16 7 8 5 7

225 55 9 4 10 6 9

815 7 0 4 6 0 0


ATTACHMENT K Major Service Change, Disproportionate Burden and Disparate Impact Policies

The requirement for this policy comes from FTA Circular 4702.1B, "Title VI Requirements and Guidelines for Federal Transit Administration Recipients" which became effective October 1, 2012. The Circular requires any FTA recipient that operates 50 or more fixed route vehicles in peak service and serving a population of 200,000 or greater to evaluate any fare change and any major service change at the planning and programming stages to determine whether those changes have a discriminatory impact and or Disproportionate Impact. BFT has more than 50 vehicles in fixed routed service and we are serving an area that exceeds 200,000 in population. Therefore the following policy will be followed:

BFT Major Service Change Policy

A major service change is defined as any change in service on any individual route that would add or eliminate more than 20% of the route revenue miles or twenty percent of the route revenue hours. All major service changes will be subject to an equity analysis which includes an analysis of adverse effects. An adverse effect is defined as a geographical or time‐based reduction in service which includes but is not limited to: span of service changes, frequency changes, route segment elimination, re‐routing, or route elimination.

BFT Disproportionate Burden Policy

The purpose of this policy is to establish a threshold which identifies when the adverse effects of a major service change or any fare change disproportionately affects low‐income populations. If the impact of a major service change proposal or any fare change proposal requires a low‐income population to receive benefits 20% less or to bear adverse effects 20% more than those benefits or adverse effects received or borne by the non‐minority population, that impact will be considered a disproportionate burden. Disproportionate burden on routes with either span of service changes and/or frequency changes will be determined by analyzing all routes with such changes together. Disproportionate burden on routes with segment elimination, re‐routing, or route elimination will be determined on a route by route basis.

BFT Disparate Impact Policy

The purpose of this policy is to establish a threshold which identifies when adverse effects of a major service change or any fare change disproportionately affects members of a group identified by race, color, or national origin. If the impact of a major service change proposal or any fare change proposal requires a minority population to receive benefits 20% less or to bear adverse effects 20% more than those benefits or adverse effects received or borne by the non‐minority population, that impact will be considered a disparate impact.


If BFT finds a potential disparate impact or disproportionate burden, the agency will take steps to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts then reanalyze the modified service plan to determine whether the impacts were removed. If BFT chooses not to alter the proposed changes, the agency may implement the service or fare change if there is substantial legitimate justification for the change AND the agency can show that there are no alternatives that would have less of an impact on the minority population and would still accomplish the agency’s legitimate program goals.


ATTACHMENT L Board of Director Approvals

Approval Date

Ben Franklin Transit’s Board of Directors approved the Title VI program on 5/12/16 during the monthly Board meeting via BFT Resolution 32-2016.


Public Outreach & Engagement

PUBLIC HEARING TITLE VI PROGRAM & LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY PLAN

Tuesday, April 12th/ Wednesday, April 13th 2016 - 11:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

Three Rivers Transit Center 7109 West Okanogan Pl, Kennewick, WA

Staff: Kevin Sliger, Transit Planner; Tony Kalmbach, Service Development Manager; Michaela Dimas, Scribe/Translator Kevin Sliger, Planner, convened the first of 4 Title VI Program & Limited English Proficiency Plan Public Hearings at 11:00 a.m. and adjourned the hearing at 11:20 a.m. due to the fact that there was no one in attendance. A subsequent hearing was held at 5 p.m. later that night and two more were held at the same times the next day, April 13th. None of the public hearings had attendees and all were convened on-time and adjourned at the 20 minute mark. Kevin Sliger prepared a PowerPoint presentation detailing Ben Franklin Transit’s updates to the agency’s Title VI Program and Limited English Proficiency Plan. The presentation included information on the background of Title VI and what sections of the documents had been updated. An overview of BFT’s Title VI policies and system wide service standards, which were adopted in 2013 and not revised during the update, were also included in the presentation. Copies of the 2016-2019 Title VI Program & Limited English Proficiency Plan draft and BFT’s Title VI Complaint Procedures were made available for attendees. Public Notices for the Title VI Program and Limited English Proficiency Plan Public Hearing were posted in the Tri-City Herald and flyers were made available at all BFT locations and on all BFT vehicles. Information about the Title VI Program and Limited English Proficiency Plan and corresponding Public Hearings was disseminated in accordance with Ben Franklin Transit’s Public Participation Plan, a plan adopted in 2013 specifically designed to promote inclusive public participation. As stated above, there were no attendees present at the public hearings and only one comment was submitted during the 30-day Public Comment Period. The comment submitted was a reminder from a member of the public that they had submitted a comment in 2015. The complaint in question is detailed in ATTACHMENT D - List of Transit-Related Title VI Investigations, Complaints, and Lawsuits.


ATTACHMENT M Fleet Summary

BFT’s current fleet as of 12/31/2015

Table 1: Operations Fleet Summary

Make Length Fuel Year Range of Vehicle numbers.

Qty

Gilligs 35 ft. Diesel 1995 269, 271-272 3

Gilligs 40 ft. Diesel 1995 277 1


Opus 30 ft. Diesel 2003 501-506 5

Opus 30 ft. Diesel 2004 507-509 3






Gilligs 40 ft. Electric 2013 E1 1



Table 2: Vanpool Fleet Summary

Make Total Passengers Fuel Year Range of Vehicle Numbers Qty Notes

Dodge 12 Gas 1997 8917 1

Chevy 12 Gas 1999 8903 and 8909 2

Dodge 12 Gas 1999 8918 1

Dodge 12 Gas 2000 8919, 8920 2

Dodge 12 Gas 2002 8921, 8922 2

Ford 15 Gas 2003 8220-8247 13

Chevy 15 Gas 2004 8254-8288 34

Dodge 7 Gas 2005 8249-8253, 8900, 8908 6

Ford 15 Gas 2005 8291-8296 6 W/C Lift

Ford 5 Gas 2005 8297, 8298 2 W/C Lift


Make Total Passengers Fuel Year Range of Vehicle Numbers Qty Notes

Ford 12 Gas 2006 8907, 8910 2

Ford 15 Gas 2006 8299-8323 22

Dodge 7 Gas 2006 8493 1

Ford 7 Gas 2007 8324-8327 3

Chevy 7 Gas 2007 8329-8338 9

Chevy 15 Gas 2007 8339-8364 22

Chevy 12 Gas 2008 8380-8469 24

Chevy 15 Gas 2008 8375-8476 75

Chevy 12 Gas 2009 8477-8484 and 8526-8538 16

Toyota 7 Gas 2009 8485-8489 5

Dodge 7 Gas 2010 8496-8510 15

Chevy 12 Gas 2010 8511-8530 20

Ford 19 Gas 2010 8495 1 W/C Lift

Chevy 15 Gas 2013 8496 1

Dodge 7 Gas 2013 8539-8553 15

Chevy 12 Gas 2014 8556-8570 15

Chevy 15 Gas 2014 8571-8590 20

Dodge 30 Gas 2014 8591-8620 30

Table 3: Dial-A-Ride Fleet Summary

Number Year Model Fuel Capacity W/C Stations

7885 2003 Ford E450 Aerotech 240 6/3 Gas 15 - -


2067 2005 Ford E450 Aerotech 240 - 16/2 Gas 18a/0wc 16a/1wc 14a/2wc





























2090 2007 Ford E450 Aerotech 240 - 16/2 Diesel 16a/1wc - -

























2095 2014 Ford E450 Aerotech 240 11/3 Gas - - -






































BFT Vehicle Procurement Timeline 2013-to Date

May 2013

Purchased 1 electric Low Floor 40’ bus from Gillig Purchased 16 Dodge Grand Caravans for Vanpool from Barry Chrysler Dodge June 2013

Purchased 4 Low Floor 40’ buses from Gillig December 2013

Purchased 4 Low Floor 40’ buses from Gillig July 2014

Purchased 14 Chevy Express van for Vanpool from McCurley Integrity Purchased 210Dodge Grand Caravans for Vanpool from Dwayne Lanes August 2014

Purchased 2 Low Floor 40’ buses from Gillig Purchased 21 Chevy Express van for Vanpool from McCurley Integrity Purchased 20 Dodge Grand Caravans for Vanpool from Dwayne Lanes September 2014

Purchased 4 El Dorado Aerotech 220/240 DAR Vehicles from Schetky Northwest Sales


October 2014

Purchased 13 El Dorado Aerotech 220 DAR Vehicles from Schetky Northwest Sales November 2014

Purchased 11 El Dorado Aerotech 220 /240 DAR Vehicles from Schetky Northwest Sales December 2014

Purchased 10 El Dorado Aerotech 220/240 DAR Vehicles from Schetky Northwest Sales January 2015

Purchased 4 Low Floor 40’ buses from Gillig Purchased 5 El Dorado Aerotech 240 DAR Vehicles from Schetky Northwest Sales September 2015

Purchased 5 Low Floor 40’ buses from Gillig October 2015

Purchased 2 Low Floor 40’ buses from Gillig


Title VI Program Limited English Proficiency Plan · Circular 4702.1B. en Franklin Transit’s...

Documents

Transcript of Title VI Program Limited English Proficiency Plan · Circular 4702.1B. en Franklin Transit’s...