february 2006

The following actions were taken during the RTA’s Board of Directors monthly meeting on Thursday, February 23, 2006:

RTA to Introduce More Affordable Bus Passes

Board members authorized a new fare structure designed to make bus travel more affordable. Beginning this spring, RTA’s fare structure will for the fi rst time include a seven-day pass that costs $12. The new pass gives passengers a less-expensive alternative to RTA’s monthly pass, which costs $43. Customers can purchase the new passes aboard RTA buses, as well as at various pass outlets across the county, through the mail or on RTA’s Web site www.RiversideTransit.com. The passes will be offered as part of a three-month pilot program.

Agency to Undergo Major Operational Analysis

RTA’s Board of Directors awarded a contract to IBI Group for a Comprehensive Operational Analysis of the Agency’s transit operations. The nine-month analysis will examine in detail the Agency’s bus network ---- from scheduling to bus stop locations to route alignments ---- in an effort to measure performance and effi ciency. The last such study was completed in 1998. The Agency’s fi xed-route and paratransit services will be examined to determine RTA’s ability to meet future transportation needs. The analysis could prompt Agency offi cials to consider changes to its current routes and schedules to improve service.

Child Seats to Debut on Dial-A-Ride Vehicles

In the interest of public safety, RTA Board Members recommended that all Dial-ARide vehicles require the use of seat belts and child safety restraints. Under the new policy, the Agency will provide booster seats and convertible car seats upon request to customers traveling with a small child. RTA expects to implement the policy by May 1, 2006, following a marketing campaign to allow suffi cient time to advise clients of this change in policy.

Board Honors Flickinger for Five Years of Service

Bonnie Flickinger, who recently completed fi ve years of service on the RTA Board of Directors, was honored by Chairman Jeff Fox who presented the Moreno Valley Mayor with a plaque honoring her service to the Agency. Flickinger fi rst joined the board in 1999 as an alternate. Since then, she has served on various board committees and has been a strong advocate of public transit. During her tenure on the RTA board, Flickinger has helped the Agency reach signifi cant milestones such as purchasing new and more effi cient fareboxes, launching the Agency’s most expansive service change in its history and introducing CommuterLink buses to riders with wireless Internet and satellite television.

The next board meeting will be held on Thursday, March 23 at 2 p.m. For more information, contact: Bradley Weaver, Communications Specialist (951) 565-5172 bweaver@riversidetransit.com