Regional Transit Coordination Councils
Coordination between transportation providers and service agencies has been a goal and strategy to fill transportation gaps, provide more service with the same or fewer resources, streamline access to transportation and provide customers more options of where and when to travel.
Goal for Regional Transportation Coordination Councils
The state agencies would provide support for creating a statewide framework of 8-10 Regional Transportation Coordination Councils throughout Minnesota in order to break down transportation barriers and offer a seamless system of transportation services. The Regional Transportation Coordination Councils would be responsible for coordinating transportation services through a network of existing public, private and non-profit transportation providers.
Regional Transportation Coordination Councils will be developed in Greater Minnesota after consultation with stakeholders through a webinar and regional stakeholder meetings. Development of a structure for coordination in the seven-county Metropolitan Area will be guided by feedback received through the Twin Cities stakeholder meeting.
Potential Tasks of the Regional Transportation Coordination Councils
• Lead activities to and advance coordination throughout region.
• Exercise the authority to make change based on a formal governing framework.
• Employ dedicated staff to implement change.
• Provide technical assistance to facilitate human service program vehicle sharing.
• Establish transportation provider performance standards for service, vehicles, and personnel.
• Actively participate in and/or lead the FTA required local transportation coordination plan process.
• Utilize a cost accounting system to accurately reflect the full costs of providing transportation services.
• Share quality assurance data and uniform reporting among stakeholders.
• Develop or promote existing van pool or rideshare services.
• Oversee volunteer driver programs or coordination of volunteer programs.
• Establish or promote existing travel training programs.
• Provide feedback to the Minnesota Council on Transportation Access as to what is working and where state level assistance may be needed.
Regional Transportation Coordination Council Benefits
• Increase efficiencies that may be achieved through more grouping of individuals traveling to the same destination or reduced duplication of services and/or vehicles.
• Enhanced access to social and health services, education and employment.
• Improved use of resources: For example, if the same services can be provided with fewer vehicles, then funds spent on insurance and capital is reduced. Other resources that could be shared include staff training, computer software, or call center staff.
• Coordination and collaboration can result in providing transportation in ways that contribute to livable communities and a vital economy.
