Title
Approval of Resolution Authorizing an Interlocal Agreement with Intercity Transit for Transit Signal Priority
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the resolution authorizing the Interlocal Agreement with Intercity Transit for operation and maintenance of Transit Signal Priority, and authorize the City Manager to sign.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve entering into an Interlocal Agreement with Intercity Transit for operation and maintenance of Transit Signal Priority and authorize the City Manager to sign the agreement.
Staff Contact:
Randy Wesselman, Transportation Engineering and Planning Manager, Public Works, 360.753.8477
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item.
Background and Analysis:
The City of Olympia and Intercity Transit (IT) received a grant to improve travel times of buses through certain corridors. This project, known as the Smart Corridors Project, is a regional project which also involves the Cities of Lacey and Tumwater, Thurston County, and the Washington State Department of Transportation. The City used the grant to upgrade traffic signal equipment and software to provide operation of “Transit Signal Priority.” Intercity Transit used their portion of the grant to purchase equipment and software that will allow IT buses to request City traffic signals hold a green light until they pass through the intersection. This helps IT buses stay on schedule and also improves air quality by reducing bus idle time. The agreement describes the Transit Signal Priority system, and how the City and IT staff will work together to operate and maintain it.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The new Transit Signal Priority system will allow slight adjustments to traffic signal timing. People taking transit will notice more reliable travel times and less waiting. The signal timing adjustments will have a minimal effect on people driving through a corridor.
Options:
1. Approve the resolution authorizing the Interlocal Agreement with Intercity Transit for operation and maintenance of Transit Signal Priority, and authorize the City Manager to sign. People taking transit will experience more reliable travel times and less waiting.
2. Amend the Interlocal Agreement with Intercity Transit for Traffic Signal Priority to address Council concerns. Authorize the City Manager to sign the Interlocal Agreement after making the changes.
Financial Impact:
Intercity Transit will pay for any work to install or modify Transit Signal Priority equipment. City staff will verify operation of Transit Signal Priority equipment as part of normal traffic signal operation and maintenance.
Attachments:
Resolution
Interlocal Agreement