HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/04/2024 07.I. Resolution adopting Yakima Transits Transit Development Plan for 2024-2029 and Annual Report for 2023 i4
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BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
AGENDA STATEMENT
Item No. 7.1.
For Meeting of: November 4, 2024
ITEM TITLE: Resolution adopting Yakima Transits Transit Development Plan for
2024-2029 and Annual Report for 2023
SUBMITTED BY: Scott Schafer, Public Works Director
* Jim Hogenson, Acting Transit Manager
SUMMARY EXPLANATION:
Yakima Transit is required under RCW 35.58.2795 to prepare a Six-Year Transit Development Plan for
the current calendar year and the ensuing five years annually. The annual plan is mandated to receive
state and federal grant funding.
The Six-Year Plan must be consistent with comprehensive plans adopted by counties, cities, and towns
and is required to contain information as to how the municipality intends to meet state and local long-
range priorities for public transportation, capital improvements, significant operating changes planned for
the system, and how Yakima Transit intends to fund plan needs. The Six-year Transit Development Plan
is reviewed and updated each year and is used as a guide in planning Transit programs and capital
projects.
The Six-Year Plan must specifically set forth projects of regional significance for inclusion in the
Transportation Improvement Plan within the region. In developing the Plan, Yakima Transit must also
consider policy recommendations affecting public transportation contained in the State Transportation
Policy Plan approved by the State Transportation Commission.
ITEM BUDGETED: N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY 24-25: A Resilient Yakima
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution Transit Development Plan 2024.docx
Transit Development Plan 2024 Updated 10.28.pdf
Public Hearing Notice 2024.pdf
Public Meeting Minutes 2024.pdf
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RESOLUTION NO. R-2024-
A RESOLUTION Adopting Yakima Transit's Development plan for 2024-2029 and annual
report for 2023.
WHEREAS, Yakima Transit is required, under RCW §35.58.2795, to prepare a Six-Year
Transit Development Plan for the calendar year and the ensuing five years annually, consistent
with the comprehensive plan required under the Growth Management Act; and
WHEREAS, the Transit Development Plan 2024-2029, and 2023 Annual Report
provides updated information to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)
on development of the various transit components undertaken by Yakima Transit and contains
Yakima Transit's short-range and long-range priorities for public transportation, capital
improvements, and significant operating changes planned for the system during that period; and,
WHEREAS, this document is used by WSDOT to prepare an annual report for the
Washington State legislature summarizing the status of public transportation systems in the
State; and
WHEREAS, it is in the City's best interests to adopt the Transit Development Plan 2024-
2029 and 2023 Annual Report; and
WHEREAS, On October 9th, 2024, an open-record public hearing was held. No comments
were received during the public hearing or by mail, now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF YAKIMA:
Yakima Transit's Transit Development Plan 2024-2029 and 2023 Annual Report are
hereby approved and adopted for implementation, as of the date of this resolution's enactment
by The Yakima City Council
ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 4th day of November, 2024.
Patricia Byers, Mayor
ATTEST:
Rosalinda Ibarra, City Clerk
1
90
Yakima Transit
Transit Development Plan
•
Yakima
!DrransiI
&2iry 4ere r cu!
Annual Report for 2023
And
Six-Year Plan 2024-2029
Reported Annually
Adopted by the Yakima City Council: Resolution
1 (4191 Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024—2029
91
Table of Contents
Sec. Title Page
Introduction 3
I. Organization 3
II. Physical Plant 5
III. Transportation Service 5
IV. Short&Long-Range Public Transportation Operating &Capital Improvement Projects 7
V. Community Enhancement Connections 9
VI. Program Funding 10
VII. Significant Operating &Capital Changes, 2023-2024 13
VIII. Summary 14
Appendix A: Operating Financial Data, 2023-2024 15
Appendix B: Public Hearing Notice 17
Appendix C: Six-Year Transit Improvement Plan -Project List 18
Appendix D: Service Data by Mode 19
Appendix E: Fixed-Route Map (Yakima) 21
Appendix£ Commuter Map (Ellensburg) 23
Appendix G: Other Service Data by Jurisdiction 24
Acknowledgements
YAKIMA TRANSIT CITY OF YAKIMA
Alvie Maxey, Transit Manager Scott Schafer, Public Works Director
Greg Story,Assistant Transit Manager
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92
INTRODUCTION
The Transit Development Plan 2024-2029 and 2023 Annual Report provides updated information to the
Washington State Department of Transportation(WSDOT) on development of public transportation
components undertaken by Yakima Transit and includes Yakima Transit's 2023 accomplishments and
proposed action strategies for 2024 to 2029. Under RCW § 35.58.2795,Yakima is required to prepare a
Six-Year Transit Development Plan and annual report and submit it to WSDOT.WSDOT uses this
document to prepare an annual report for the Washington State Legislature summarizing the status of
State public transportation systems. The document is also used to notify the public about completed,
current, or planned projects. In order for this document to be effective,the Yakima City Council must
approve the document following a public hearing.
This plan is required to be updated each year in order for Yakima Transit to fully inform the Federal
Transit Administration,Washington State Department of Transportation,Yakima City Council, and the
Public of projects that have been undertaken and are planned to be undertaken. Because this is a plan,not
every project will be completed when planned in the document and some projects may never be started as
a result of changed conditions or other factors.
SECTION I: ORGANIZATION
History
In 1907,the City of Yakima's public transportation originated with a steel-rail streetcar system. The
Yakima Valley Transportation Company operated the first transit service. Motorized buses were
introduced in 1924 as a supplement to the rail streetcar routes. The City's all-electric streetcars were
discontinued in 1947 when the services offered switched to an all-motor bus system. In 1957, a private
provider began operating the bus system. The private provider discontinued service in 1966 and for four
months no public transportation services were operated in the City of Yakima. In the fall of 1966,
Yakima citizens voted to approve the State's first household tax to financially support a public transit
system and public transit services were re-established under contract with a private provider. In October
1970,the City purchased the assets of the financially-troubled private provider and continued transit
services as a City-owned and operated public transit system. In November 1980,Yakima citizens
approved a 0.3%transit sales tax that replaced the City's household tax as the transit system's method of
financial support. Currently,the Federal Transit Administration classifies Yakima Transit as a small
urbanized transit system serving a population between 50,000 and 200,000 people.
Yakima Transit's services include Fixed-route, Paratransit(Dial-A-Ride), and Commuter bus service
between Yakima and Ellensburg. As a result of the American's with Disabilities Act, Dial-A-Ride
services were added in 1992.
The Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter started at the end of November 2011,to provide transportation
services for faculty, staff, and students traveling to either the Yakima Valley Community College or
Central Washington University. Those schools account for approximately 70%of Commuter ridership.
In June 2014,Yakima Transit took the main partnership role in making sure the program is operated to
meet partnership and community needs.
Organizational Structure
The Yakima City Council is ultimately responsible for Yakima Transit's operations. Several management
layers help control Transit activities &programs including the City Manager, Public Works Director,
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Transit Manager and the Assistant Transit Manager. The City Manager and Public Works Director report
back to the City Council on Transit activities and address Transit policies and finances. The Transit
Manager oversees the daily operational activities of the Transit System,which is overseen by the Public
Works Director and City Manager.
As of December 31, 2023,Yakima Transit directly employed 53 employees in Administration, Fixed
route, and Paratransit services. Transit staff positions are generally frontline positions.
Yakima Transit
A Division of the City of Yakima
Organizational Chart
City Council
DBELO Officer
City Manager
EEO Officer
Accounting,Purchasing,
•
Police,HR,Legal,IT Etc.
Safety Officer
Public Works Director
Fleet&Facility Manager
Citizen's Advisory Transit Manager
Committee
Assistant Transit
Manger
Fixed Route Operations Specialist(1)
Supervisors(3)
Maintenance Crew Community Transportation
•Leader(1) Dispatchers(3) Coordinator(1)
Service Workers(2) Operators(35)
Office Assistant(3)
Bus Cleaners(2)
Revised October 2024
Yakima Transit pays for various administrative services through the City of Yakima including Legal,
Human Resources,Vehicle Maintenance, Purchasing, Information Technology, and Financial Services.
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Yakima Transit also contracts with private organizations for Paratransit&Commuter services. Medstar
LLC, operates the Dial-A-Ride service and in 2023 employed approximately 38 employees consisting of
an Office Manager, Dispatchers, Schedulers, Drivers,Vehicle Cleaners, and Mechanics. From January of
2023 to July 2023,A&A Motor coach operated the Yakima-Ellensburg commuter, employing up to eight
Drivers,a Supervisor,and a Maintenance person. Since August 2023 Bellair Airporter operates the
Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter, employing approximately four employees consisting of Drivers,a
Supervisor and a Maintenance person. All who dedicate their time to the commuter.
Residents can address their Transit concerns directly to the City Council Members during any regularly
scheduled Council meeting. The City Council also solicits public comments on transit specific issues
during the review and adoption of the City's annual budget and Transit Development Plan. All City
Council meetings and budget review meetings are broadcast live on local television and taped for
rebroadcast online for those unable to attend the actual session.
A Citizen's Advisory Committee meets quarterly and consists of members of the community with an
interest in Transit,as well as individuals who use Transit on a daily basis. The group is updated on
Yakima Transit's projects and goals. They are asked to provide input on proposed projects,give public
and system user comments on services they would like to see in the system, and comment on future
services Yakima Transit could provide. Community participation helps Yakima Transit address
passenger concerns.
SECTION II: PHYSICAL PLANT LOCATIONS
Yakima Transit's administrative and operations offices are located at 2301 Fruitvale Boulevard.Yakima
Transit's Human Resources, Legal, &Financial services are provided by the City of Yakima either at the
Public Works Facility, City Hall, or the Legal Center. Yakima Transit has a Transit Center in the
Downtown Yakima core at 4th Street and Walnut.New Transit facility located 506 Fruitvale Blvd.
Yakima Transit provides three park and ride lots throughout Yakima at the following locations: Yakima
Public Works Facility at 2301 Fruitvale Blvd; Chesterly Park at 40th Avenue and Powerhouse Road; and
the City of Yakima Information Center at Fair Avenue and Lincoln.
SECTION III: TRANSPORTATION SERVICE
Services
During 2023,Yakima Transit served the City of Yakima with Fixed-Route, Paratransit,and Commuter
services to Ellensburg with the Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter. (Maps at Appx E and F)Yakima Transit
also promotes sidewalks,pathways, and bicycle routes.Yakima Transit provides the following
connections to rail, air,and other fixed-route services: Union Gap Transit, Selah Transit,and the
Community Connector(Lower Valley service).
Fixed Route
During 2023,Yakima Transit operated Fixed-route bus service along ten different routes that operate
between the hours of 6:00am and 7:00pm within the City of Yakima:
• 9 routes Monday -Friday(6:00am -7:00pm);
• 9 routes on Saturdays (8:45am -6:00pm); and,
• 6 routes on Sundays (8:00am-4:00pm).
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Weekday routes are operated on one hour and half hour basis on most routes. Saturday& Sunday routes
are operated on an hourly basis.Yakima Transit's system map, as illustrated in the Appendix E,depicts
the 2024 fixed routes. Over the next six years, some routes may be cut,modified, or discontinued to
maintain or expand more efficient routes.
Yakima Transit is continuously striving to provide an updated fleet for its passengers. Six diesel powered
Gillig buses were delivered in 2023 and then two more buses were waiting delivery for early 2024. Future
buses may potentially consist of electric or other alternative fuels meeting the State of Washington's
alternative fuels regulations, if this is the most feasible option.
Expansion routes outside of Yakima Transit's jurisdiction require service demand and funding support
from either the State, Federal, or local jurisdictions (other than the City of Yakima).
Paratransit (Dial A Ride)
In 2023,Yakima Transit provided paratransit services in the City of Yakima. Dial-A-Ride services were
available during the same operating schedule as fixed-route services. Under contract with Medstar, LLC,
complementary paratransit services were available to residents,who qualify for service under the
provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Paratransit services are provided door-to-door to
eligible clients and serves the areas within the city limits of Yakima and some trips into the city of Union
Gap and Selah. Contractor costs at the end of 2023 were around$1.8 million for the year.Yakima Transit
does not anticipate any major changes to the paratransit area of operation, except as it relates to any
expansion of the fixed-route program and replacing vehicles.Yakima Transit will be exploring and
researching the possibility of bringing the Paratransit program in-house in the future instead of having a
contracted service.
Park& Ride Lots
Yakima Transit provides service to five park&ride lots: Chesterly Park at North 40th Ave and River
Road, Gateway Center along Fair Avenue at I-82,the Public Works Facility at N. 23rd Avenue and
Fruitvale Boulevard. The Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter utilizes the Firing Center Park&Ride Lot
(Selah)and the Park&Ride lot located next to the Selah Civic Center in downtown Selah.
School Service
Yakima Transit provides weekday non-exclusive transportation service to Elementary, Middle, and High
Schools. The School Districts do not provide transportation services for students who live within a mile
of the school;however,the school district purchases youth passes for the students to use. In 2022, School
District passes accounted for 14%of fixed-route fares(total youth fares accounted for 27%). School
district passes are not discounted before that point. These routes run along the same route as normal
routes and are generally filled up with 50-150 students boarding either before or after school. The school
runs have the highest ridership per hour of all fixed-route runs and were initially setup because regular
route buses were overcrowded making it difficult for other passengers to use the service either before or
after school hours.
Multimodal Connections
Yakima Transit provides service to the following public transportation facilities/connections:
• Greyhound Bus Terminal(5th Avenue &Walnut Street)
• Lower/Upper Valley Community Connector(Yakima Transit Center)
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• Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter(Yakima Air Terminal,YVCC, and Yakima Transit Center)
• Union Gap Transit&Yakima Airport(Routes 7 &9)
• Selah Transit(1305 N 16th Avenue and 1206 N 40th Avenue)
Fare Structure
Single-ticket fares &monthly fares as of November 2024. Fares are as follows:
How much does it cost to ride the bus? One Way Monthly
Fare Passes
Adults (age 19 and Over) $1.00 $25.00
Reduced Fare (Persons 62/over, people with disabilities
and Medicare Card holders, Reduced
Fare ID card with photo required for $0.50 $9.00
reduced fare)
Yakima Ellensburg Commuter (19 and Over) $5.00 $150.00
Youths (18 and Under) Free Free
Pre-School (under 6, accompanied by an adult) Free Free
Transfers (See Transfer policy) Free Free
For fixed-route bus service,day passes are still offered at three times the cost of a single fare, or twice the
fare for passes obtained after 9:15am. Fixed-route transfers are available for"one free ride"on any bus,
on any route, during one of three time periods each day. Morning transfer tickets are valid until 9:15am.
Mid-day transfer tickets are honored from 8:45am to 3:15pm and afternoon/evening transfers are effective
from 2:45pm until the close of service. The boarding time determines which transfer the passenger
receives. Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter transfers to the fixed-route system are free with the purchase of
a Commuter ticket.
SECTION IV: SHORT & LONG-RANGE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OPERATING &
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Local Operating Projects
1. Offer regional transit service connections to Kittitas County(Ellensburg/CWU Campus).
Yakima Transit continues to operate the Yakima-Ellensburg service under contract. Move Ahead
WA Grant will provide funding from July 2023 to June 2025. When compared to previous years
and before the 2020 pandemic,the ridership in 2019 had remained steady with a slight increase in
ridership. In 2020 ridership fell by 85%. By 2022,this service has recovered to 2019 levels. This is
partially due to Central Washington University being back in session.
The Commuter bus will begin its route in each city at approximately 6:00 AM and will be arriving
to their destination by 7:45 AM.
On average,the Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter provides more passenger trips than each of the four
State operated Intercity Transits (Apple, Grape,Gold, &Dungeness Lines)at less than 1/3 of the
combined miles travelled and at roughly 1/3 the combined cost.
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Grants and partnership funding are required to continue to keep the service operational,with the
fare box recovery averaging around 10%.
2. Fixed-Route Passenger Counters. In 2023,Yakima Transit purchased new software/IT
equipment that assists in collecting data for reporting purposes. Yakima Transit is required to
collect and report this data on an annual basis to the State (Washington State Department of
Transportation) and Federal (Federal Transit Authority) levels. This new technology will be fully
implemented by the end of 2024.
3. Paratransit Passenger Counters. In late 2025 -mid 2026,Yakima Transit anticipates equipping
the paratransit fleet with GPS tracking systems similar to the fixed-route system tablets. Yakima
Transit is required to collect and report this data on an annual basis to the State (Washington State
Department of Transportation) and Federal (Federal Transit Authority) levels.
4. Security Cameras. Bus security cameras were upgraded in 2019,giving Yakima Transit the
ability to have live video feed.
Local Capital Projects
1. Vehicle Replacement.
a. Buses. All of Yakima Transit's fixed-route bus fleet are low-floor Gilligs. Eight new buses
were delivered in 2023 and 2024.
b. Commuter.Yakima Transit does not own the vehicles used in the Yakima-Ellensburg
Commuter. The vehicles are owned and operated by the service provider.
c. Dial A Ride. Seven new large Transit Vans were ordered in late 2022/2023 for delivery in
mid-2023/2024. Up to 10 new vehicles were ordered in 2024 for delivery in 2025 provided by
new grant.
d. Administrative. Four new Administrative vehicles may need to be ordered in 2026 depending
on use.
2. Continue to maintain/improve ADA amenities within the transit system.Yakima Transit
continues its efforts to maintain and improve ADA access within the system. Yakima Transit plans
to:
• Purchase ADA accessible vehicles with ramps.
• Work with the City Streets, Planning, and Engineering Departments to identify and partially
fund sidewalk installations throughout the Transit system to help individuals with mobility
issues get to the bus stop.
3. New Transit Base of Operations.Yakima Transit purchased 506 Fruitvale Blvd in July 2022 for a
new Transit Base of Operations in Yakima. Anticipated move in is early 2026. The new Transit
location will house Yakima Transit Administrative offices,vehicles, low maintenance garage,
cleaning bay,ticket booth, etc. The new Transit location is also anticipated to help Yakima Transit
switch over to alternative fuels. At some point in the future,Yakima Transit anticipates all the
buses will have alternative fuel sources.
4. Build a new Westside Transfer location.Yakima Transit anticipates building a new Transfer
station in west Yakima/West Valley within the next 6-10 years. This Transfer Station will not only
offer improved services to the west Yakima and West Valley community,but it will support the
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Transit Center currently located in east Yakima, offering more efficient routes and connectivity
throughout our entire system.
Capital improvements over the next six years will depend on transit sales tax. If sales tax revenues
decline,planned projects may be put on hold until revenue is available to do the project. Planned capital
investments are listed in Appendix C. Major improvements planned include: vehicle replacement, fixed-
route passenger shelters,bus stop improvements, and technology improvements.
SECTION V: COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT CONNECTIONS
Throughout the City of Yakima,there are several planned or completed community enhancement
projects. This section provides updates on transit connectivity to those programs/developments.
Yakima Transit provides bus service to several annual community events including fare-free shuttle
services to: the Central Washington State Fair and the Arboretum's Christmas Luminaria Event. The City
of Yakima's Fourth of July Fireworks Show has been cancelled with the recent decline of ridership for
this specific event. All of the transit services provided are open to the general public.
SECTION VI: PROGRAM FUNDING
FINANCIAL FORECAST
Financial forecasting primarily pulls from past service levels, anticipated needs, and market trends. This
analysis consists of Yakima Transit's projected revenue and expenses for maintaining efficient service
levels, while still being able to maintain an active vehicle fleet. The long-term strategies adequately
address capital vehicle replacement and operations. On average,total capital and operating expenses are
around$11M annually. The projected Ending Cash Balance, includes anticipated capital investments.
Revenues
The information contained in this section breaks down revenue streams and considers the outlook of those
revenue sources. Operating revenue consists mainly of local sales tax and grant funding. Revenue is also
obtained from farebox,monthly bus passes,tickets, and reimbursements from other jurisdictions served.
Total Revenue(in thousands) 2023' 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Sales Tax $ 8,225 $ 8,414 $ 8,608 $ 8,806 5 9,003 $ 9,215 $ 9,427
Grants(Operating) $ 9,496 $ 9,714 $ 2,700 $ 2,700 $ 2,700 $ 2,800 $ 2,900
Grants(Capital) S 9,188 $ 9,399 $ 450 $ 450 $ 450 S 500 $ 500
Farebox Revenue $ 585 $ 598 $ 650 $ 675 $ 700 $ 700 $ 715
Total Operating and Capital Revenues $27,494 $28,126 $12,408 $12,631 $12,858 $13,215 $13,542
Sales Taxes
Yakima Transit utilizes a three tenths of one percent(0.3%) sales tax that was passed by voters in 1980.
Sales tax revenue accounts for approximately 57%of total transit revenue in 2023. Sales tax revenues
typically remains relatively consistent year to year with a slight fluctuation either up or down.
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Farebox Revenue
Farebox revenue is one of the smaller funding parts to operating public transportation. Farebox revenue
consists of Fixed-route, Dial-A-Ride, and Commuter funds. Passenger fares play an important role in
funding transit services. A balance between the cost of the service and what a passenger is willing to pay
must be maintained to ensure that users participate in the cost of providing the service. If the cost of the
fare is too high, individuals who could drive may opt for the convenience of driving.
Farebox Revenue(in thousands) 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Fixed-Route Farebox Revenue $ 295 $ 302 $ 309 $ 316 _ $ 323 $ 331 $ 338
Paratransit Farebox Revenue $ 86 $ 88 _ $ 90 $ 92 _ $ 94 $ 96 _ $ 99
Commuter Farebox Revenue $ 88 $ 90 $ 92 $ 94 $ 96 $ 99 _ $ 101
Total Fairbox Revenues $ 469 $ 480 $ 491 $ 502 $ 514 $ 525 $ 538
For 2023, farebox revenue accounted for 16%of all revenue.Yakima Transit ridership over the last year,
had a count of approximately 678,111 passenger trips served.
Grant Funds
Yakima Transit utilizes both federal and state grants,which in 2023, accounted for approximately 40%of
total revenue. State and Federal funding has remained at or near prior year levels. Federal formula
allocations have continued to increase.
Operating grants consist of the annual operating grant(apportionment), operating grants for ADA
paratransit services (apportionment), and the Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter(discretionary).
Grants include the following Projects:
2020 CARES ACT Grant
In April of 2020 Yakima Transit received from the Federal Government$6,268,035 in emergency
CARES Act funding. These funds were supplied to provide emergency relief during the Covid-19
Pandemic that started in February of 2020. These funds are intended to make up for shortfalls in public
transits budgets due to loss in revenue and loss in ticket sales. This money can be used in a variety of
ways to keep Yakima Transit operating. The funds have also been used to install barriers in the fixed
route fleet to protect drivers from direct exposure. Planned expenditures of this grant are to pay for any
shortages, Paratransit, PPE,and any other costs over the next 4 years. This grant is non-renewable.
2023-2025 —Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter
Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter—Yakima Transit receives funding from the State of Washington
Department of Transportation for commuter bus service between Yakima and Ellensburg. This grant is
called the Move Ahead Washington Grant. The service is done in partnership with the City of Selah, City
of Ellensburg, and Central Washington University. Without partnership support,Yakima Transit would
not be able to provide the service. The grant covers about 35%of the service, local funds account for
approximately 48%of the cost, and the farebox revenue accounts for the remaining 17%.
Cost: $1.0M Grant: $600K Status: Currently being used.
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2021-2023— Paratransit Special Needs Formula Grant
Paratransit Special Needs Formula Funds (PTSNF) -Yakima Transit receives an apportionment
(roughly$240K every two years) from the Washington State Department of Transportation for paratransit
services. Yakima Transit spends approximately$1.5M every year on paratransit services.
Cost: $3M Grant: $240K Status: Currently being used.
2022—5307 Small Urban Operating Assistance
Annual Grant -Yakima Transit receives FTA 5307 funding totaling approximately$2.3M annually.
This grant is essential to maintain existing fixed-route bus services.
Cost: $4.6M Grant: $2.3M Status: Currently being used.
Operating Expenditures
Yakima Transit's total operating expenses for 2023 were $10.2M. Major operating expenses include fuel,
labor, insurance, and other costs. Employee costs were the primary factor for the increase along with
technology upgrades. For 2024, operating expenses are anticipated to be steadily increasing.
Yakima Transit operates fixed-route,paratransit, and commuter bus service. These modes of
transportation are addressed by their overall cost to the budget including operating and capital costs.
Operating Expenditures(in thousands) 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Fixed-Route Buses S 2,385 S 2,951 $ 3,019 $ 3,089 $ 3,160 S 3,232 $ 3,307
Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter $ 652 _ $ 667 $ 682 $ 698 $ 714 $ 731 $ 747
•Paratransit S 1,748 $ 1,788 $ 1,829 $ 1,871 $ 1,914 S 1,958 $ 2,004
Administrative S 1,003 $ 1,026 $ 1,050 S 1,074 $ 1,099 S 1,124 S 1,150
Total Operating Expenses $ 6,283 $ 6,433 $ 6,581 $ 6,732 $ 6,387 $ 7,045 $ 7,207
Fixed-Route
Yakima Transit spends most of its funds on the fixed-route bus service. In years in which buses are not
purchased,the largest part of the cost is wages and benefits, accounting for nearly 70%of the total cost to
provide the service. Maintenance (16%) and significantly increased fuel costs (7%)make up the next two
highest expenses,with the rest being insurance, supplies, and equipment upgrades. In the chart above,
fixed-route costs fluctuate because of the vehicle replacement program. In 2023/2024,Yakima Transit
purchased eight new transit buses, as part of Transit's ongoing bus replacement plan.
Dial-A-Ride
Yakima Transit operates fixed-route bus services,which requires (by federal law)the Transit system to
operate complementary paratransit services (Dial-A-Ride)to disabled individuals who cannot ride the
fixed-route bus system. Currently,Medstar operates Dial-A-Ride under a contract with Yakima Transit.
The farebox-recovery ratio for this service is usually around 5%in 2022. Yakima Transit leases vehicles
to Medstar to help control maintenance costs and provide funds for replacement vehicles.
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Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter
Yakima Transit contracts with Bellair Airporter to provide this service. The farebox-recovery ratio for
this service is usually at 17%. Central Washington University, City of Ellensburg and City of Selah
participate in the Commuter service.
Capital Funds
Yakima Transit sets aside $800,000 to $1,000,000 annually in the capital reserve account for major
capital projects like vehicle and facility replacement/expansion, as well as other smaller capital
improvement projects. When revenue exceeds actual costs,those additional funds are put into a reserve
account for either capital or operating. With proposed capital facility improvements over the next six
years,the amount set aside will need to continue in order to complete the anticipated projects. Most of
the time,grant funding is used for a portion of capital projects,primarily to replace vehicles.
General Forecast
In the general forecast,the next several years show high expenditures as a result of vehicle replacement.
Replacing vehicles are balanced out with the reserve account(ending cash balance) ensuring that Yakima
Transit is financially healthy while upgrading the fleet.
Yakima Transit's ideal vehicle replacement schedule is at a rate of 1.5 fixed-route buses and 3 paratransit
vehicles each year. This schedule may grow or wane as funding allows.With the changes to the system,
there is sufficient funding in the capital budget to allow for these purchases. Buses typically cost$650K,
and Dial-A-Ride large passenger ADA equipped vans $135K.
A general financial forecast is shown in Appendix A.
SECTION VII: SIGNIFICANT OPERATING & CAPITAL CHANGES, 2024— 2029
Other than vehicle replacement and equipment upgrades,Yakima Transit does not have any significant
operating changes planned for 2024-2029. The single major project in 2024 and 2025 will be a Needs
Study and renovation of the new Transit Facility. Most other major projects are listed in the six-year
transit improvement plan—project list,Appendix C. Maps of the current system are shown in Appendix
E-G.
There has been several changes and upgrades to the transit buses in 2024, including upgrading the
modems, cameras, and bus computers,adding live video streaming capabilities to assist supervisors,
dispatchers, and the Yakima Police Department.
VIII. Summary
Overall,Yakima Transit's revenues and expenses are stable. Capital projects that have been delayed for
years have or are in the process of being completed or implemented. Other projects are still an option in
the coming years. Services are anticipated to be more flexible so Yakima Transit can more fully serve the
public.
12 ( Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024—2029
102
APPENDIX A: OPERATING FINANCIAL DATA - 2023 Annual - & Budget 2024-2029
TRANSIT OPERATIONS
2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Beginning Balance , $10,756 $21,602 $32,697 $44,048 $55,660 $67,539 $79,691
Operating Revenues(in thousands) _ _ _
Sales Tax $8,225 $8,414 $8,608 $8,806 $9,008 $9,215 $9,427
Farebox $295 $302 $309 $316 $323 $331 $338
Commuter Fares _ $88 $90 _ $92 $94 _ $96 $99 $101
Paratransit Fares $86 $88 _ $90 $92 $94 $96 $99
Federal Operating Grants $9,188 $9,399 $9,616 $9,837 $10,063 $10,294 $10,531
WSDOT Grants $308 $315 $322 $330 _ $337 $345 _ $353
Total Revenues $18,190 $18,608 $19,036 $19,474 $19,922 $20,380 $20,849
Operating Expenses 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter _ $652 $667 _ $682 $698 $714 $731 $747
Fixed Route Maintenance $910 $931 $952 $974 $997 $1,020 $1,043
Transit Center Maintenance $119 $122 $125 $127 $130 $133 _ $136
Transit Administration _ $1,003 $1,026 _ $1,050 $1,074 $1,099 $1,124 _ $1,150
Transit Marketing $27 $28 $28 $29 $30 $30 _ $31
Fixed Route Operations $2,885 $2,951 $3,019 $3,089 $3,160 $3,232 _ $3,307
Paratransit/ADA Operations $1,748 $1,788 _ $1,829 $1,871 $1,914 $1,958 _ $2,004
Total Expenses r $7,344 $7,513 $7,686 $7,862 $8,043 $8,228 _ $8,418
Operating Cash Flow $10,846 $11,095 $11,351 $11,612 $11,879 $12,152 $12,431
Net Cash Available $21,602 $32,697 $44,048 $55,660 $67,539 $79,691 $92,122
13 Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024-2029
e i
103
TRANSIT CAPITAL
(in thousands) 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Beginning Capital Balance $3,492 $13,631 $21,472 . $30,343 $37,214 _ $30,343 $37,214
Capital Revenues
Sales Tax Revenue $8,225 $8,225 $8,500 $8,500 $8,725 _ $8,725 S9,000
FTA/WSDOT Capital Grants $9,188 $450 $450 _ $450 $450 _ $500 $500
Leases $427 $21 $21 S21 _ S21 $21 $21
Sale of Fixed Assets $4,854
_ Other
Total Revenues $22,694 $8,696 $8,971 $8,971 $9,196 $9,246 $9,521
Capital Expenses 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Minor Equipment $65 _
Operating Equipment $0 SC $100 S1C0 S1CO $100 _ S100
Other Equipment _ _ _ _
Improvements other than Bldg _ _ _ _
Transit Buses 54,486 SO SO _ $2,000 SC _ S2,500 SO
Facilities _
Support Vehicles $0 $55 SC SO _ SO _ $0 $0
Paratransit/ADA Vehicles $400 $800 $0 S0 SC $0 $300
Total Capital Expenses T $4,951 $855 $100 v $2,100 r $100 c $2,600 r $400
Capital Cash Flow $17,743 $7,841 $8,871 $6,871 $9,096 $6,646 $9,121
Ending Cash Balance $13,631 $21,472 $30,343 $37,214 $46,310 $36,989 $46,335
14 ( Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024-2029
104
APPENDIX B: PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Saturday,September 21, 2024
Yakima Transit is submitting to the
Washington State Department of
Transportation its Six-Year Transit
Development Plan and Annual Report.
These documents address state and
local long & short-range priorities,
capital improvements, planned
significant operating changes and,
program funding sources for the
following six years,and the summary of
Yakima Transit's 2023 operations.
Public notice of public involvement
activities and time established for
public review of and comments on the
TIP will satisfy POP requirements.
A public hearing on the submittal will
be held Wednesday, October 9th, 2024,
at 4:30pm at Public Works, 2301
Fruitvale Blvd.,Yakima, WA 98902. The
meeting can also be attended via Zoom
conference call. To join meeting, call
US: US: +1 253 215 8782 or+1 971 247
1195 or 877 853 5247(Toll Free)or 888
788 0099 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0276
(Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free)
Webinar ID: 943 4166 4402
Passcode: 938655
A draft document and additional
meeting information including the link
to join the meeting online will be
available at www.yakimatransit.org on
September 23rd, 2024.
Final approval of the program is
anticipated to go to the Yakima City
Council on Tuesday October 15th, 2024
15 Annual Report for 2023 &Transit Development Plan 2024—2029
105
APPENDIX C: SIX-YEAR TRANSIT IMPROVEMENT PLAN - PROJECT LIST
Yakima Transit Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan- Project List 2024-2029
Z Length (Funds Shown in Thousands) Federally
> a Fund Source Information Expense Funded
111
M c i u m 3 -o Schedule Projects
E Project Identification `o Status a d a a �, r -
Z a v a N E o. .- v AI 0 0 Phase c a
3 ' c i E « o d w r+ i-• 5 a 0 'c
U. a u a c '^ a m c c F> cc a
ct LL ~ N Wcc
1 Paratransit Operating Assistance 2023-2025-State Allocation for ADA services y Y Annual Funds DR _2yr 8/23 WSDOT 0 320 2,450 0 2,770 1,385 1,385 CE _No
2 Paratransit Operating Assistance 2025-2027-State Allocation for ADA Services N N Annual Funds DR 2yr 7/25 WSDOT 0 320 2,500 0 2,820 1,410 1,400 CE No
3 New Paratransit Vans-Purchase 10 new Vans Y Y In Progress DR lyr 5/24 WSDOT 0 760 114 0 874 874 0 CE No
4 Yakima•Ellensburg Commuter-14 one-way trips during peak,12 during off peak Y Y In Progress Comm 2yr 8/23 WSDOT 0 500 200 25 725 362 362 CE No
5 Downtown Transfer Center Renovation N N Planning All 2yr 7/25 WA State Grant 290 50 0 300 300 0 CE No
6 Yakima-Ellensburg Commuter-14 one-way trips during peak,12 during off peak N N Planning Comm 2yr 10/25 WSDOT 0 500 200 25 725 362 362 CE No
7 Acquisition of New Transit Buses-Purchase 2 new Transit Buses N N Planning FR 1.5yr 7/25 5339 0 1,200 400 0 1,600 2,050 0 CE No
8 New Transit Operations Facility-Study,Remodel,Renovation Y N In Progress All .5yr 9/24 Local Tax/WSDOT 0 0 450 0 450 450 0 NA _NA
9 Annual FTA Operating Assistance•FY 2024 Transit Operating Grant-Fixed Routes N N Annual Funds All Ann 3/24 5307 3,500 0 3,500 0 7,000 7,000 0 CE No
10 Annual FTA Operating Assistance-FY 2025 Transit Operating Grant-Fixed Routes N N Annual Funds All Ann 3/25 5307 3,500 0 3,500 0 7,000 7,000 0 CE No
11 Annual FTA Operating Assistance-FY 2026 Transit Operating Grant-Fixed Routes N N Annual Funds All Ann 3/26 5307 3,500 0 3,500 0 7,000 7,000 0 CE No
12 Annual FTA Operating Assistance•FY 2027 Transit Operating Grant-Fixed Routes N N Annual Funds All Ann 3/27 5307 4,00 0 4,000 0 8,000 8,000 0 CE No
13 Annual FTA Operating Assistance-FY 2028 Transit Operating Grant-Fixed Routes N N Annual Funds All Ann 3/28 5307 4,00 0 4,000 0 8,000 8,000 0 CE No
14 Annual FTA Operating Assistance•FY 2029 Transit Operating Grant-Fixed Routes N N Annual Funds All Ann 3/29 5307 4,500 0 4,500 0 9,000 9,000 0 CE No
15 Acquisition of new Transit Buses-Purchase 2 new Transit Buses N N Planning FR 1.5yr 7/27 5339 0 1,200 400 0 '1,600 1,650 0 CE No
16 Acquisition of new Transit Buses-Purchase 3 new Transit Buses N N Planning FR 1.5yr 7/29 5339 0 1,300 500 0 1,800 2,225 0 CE No
17 West Valley Transfer Center(WVTC)-Transfer CTR(Pop.Over 150k) N N Planned Expansion All 2yr 7/30 NA NA NA NA 0 0 0 0 NEPA NA
(FR)Fixed Route,(DR)Dial A Ride,(Comm)Commuter,(NA)Not Available,(CE)Categorical Exemption
16I� Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024-2029
106
APPENDIX D: SERVICE DATA BY MODE
Fixed-Route 2023 2024(Est.) 2025(Est.) 2026(Est.) 2027(EST.)
Ridership ▪ 574,582 586,074 597,795 609,751 621,946
Service Days 357 _ 358 357 357 357
Vehicle Service Mileage ▪ 753,510 710,000 710,000 710,000 ▪ 710,000
Vehicle Service Hours 56,088 57,000 57,000 57,000 57,000
Operating Expenses $▪ 7,625,824 . $7,778,340 _ $7,933,907 $8,092,585 _ $8,254,437
Fare Box Revenues(passes,tickets,&cash) $ 295,091 $ 320,000 $ 320,000 $ 320,000 $ 320,000
Fare Box Return Ratiotl1 0.04 0.04 0.04 _ 0.04 0.04
Revenue/Passenger 0.51 0.55 0.54 0.52 0.51
Revenue/Mile 0.39 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45
Revenue/Hour 5.26 5.61 5.61 5.61 5.61
Passenger/Mile 0.76 0.83 0.84 0.86 0.88
Passenger/Hour 10.24 10.28 10.49 10.70 10.91
Operating Cost/Passenger 13.27 _ 13.27 13.27 13.27 13.27
Operating Cost/Mile 10.12 _ 10.96 _ 11.17_ 11.40 11.63
Operating Cost/Hour(2) 135.96 136.46 139.19 141.98 144.81
Paratransit 2023 2024(Est.) 2025(Est.) 2026(Est.) 2027(Est.)
Ridership 46,137 55,000 60,000 60,000 _ 60,000
Service Days _ 357 358 357 357 357
Vehicle Service Mileage 323,057 _ 255,750 279,000 279,000 • 279,000
Vehicle Service Hours 32,951 _ 25,575 _ 27,900 _ 27,900 27,900
Operating Expenses $1,841,665 $1,878,498 $1,916,068 $1,954,390 $1,993,477
Fare Box Revenues(passes,tickets,&cash) $ 86,441 _ $ 90,000 $ 95,000 $ 95,000 $ 95,000
Fare Box Return Ratio ill 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 _ 0.05
Revenue/Passenger 1.87 1.64 1.58 1.58 1.58
Revenue/Mile 0.27 0.35 0.34 0.34 0.34
Revenue/Hour 2.62 _ 3.52 3.41 _ 3.41 3.41
Passenger/Mile 0.14 0.22 0.22 _ 0.22 0.22
Passenger/Hour 1.40 _ 2.15 2.15______ 2.15 2.15
Operating Cost/Passenger 39.92 _ 34.15 31.93 32.57 33.22
Operating Cost/Mile 5.70 7.35 6.87 r 7.00 7.15
Operating Cost/Hour'21 55.89 73.45 68.68 70.05 71.45
17 �. Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024-2029
107
Commuter 2023 2024(Est.) 2025(Est.) 2026(Est.) 2027(EST.)
Ridership 25,992 23,000 25,000 25,000 25,000
Service Days 252 252 253 252 252
Vehicle Service Mileage 148,663 148,663 148,663 148,663 148,663
Vehicle Service Hours 4894. $ 4,782 $ 4,782 $ 4,782 $ 4,783
Operating Expenses $ 705,659 $ 719,772 $ 734,168 $ 748,851 $ 763,828
Fare Box Revenues(passes,tickets,&cash) $ 88,396 $ 160,000 $ 165,000 $ 165,000 $ 165,001
Fare Box Return Ratio" 0.13 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22
Revenue/Passenger 3.40 6.96 6.60 6.60 6.60
Revenue/Mile 0.59 1.08 1.11 1.11 1.11
Revenue/Hour 18.06 33.46 34.50 34.50 34.49
Passenger/Mile _ 0.17 . 0.15 0.17 0.17 0.17
Passenger/Hour 5.31 , 4.81 5.23 5.23 5.23
Operating Cost/Passenger 27.15 . 31.29 29.37 29.95 30.55
Operating Cost/Mile 4.75 4.84 4.94 5.04 5.14
Operating Cost/Hour(21 144.19 150.51 153.52 156.59 159.68
18 Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024-2029
108
APPENDIX E: FIXED-ROUTE MAP (Yakima)
BidLe
1 Summitview/Lincoln
— 2 Tieton/Nob Hill
Fro
3 Mead/Fruitvale W 'Ti
- vale: I'z
— 4 Fruitvale/Mead L w,uowst 3 z
( Joromo Ave Swan Ave b
-. Eno'erreod Ave Cheny Ave 9 . I"•`
5 Nob Hill/Tieton z
F. i . .
7 "�� *•
T 'owre A..:
6 Fair Ave./No.4th St. / Wa >.
"Pairvak n
N Ya ma Re onal Med. ,I
7 40th Ave./Washington — d Center
West'�Iey h r Yakima hey immrik
tilkhreo se
mi 8 Lincoln/Summitview dv.ReRd & a D. l Memorial Hospital Q yt
Dab < Bomuo Down Mo j rt Cent II Washinc on
III Blvd ( } 1 N.
3 irate Fair
0 9 1st Street/Washington 1 A €
4 ° q a o o f 9
1.1 11 Ellensburg _ a < < ' , fj
N N N
N
ti11: Yek�i �'� South
a ::92 1: Terrnioa`'Airport Broadway
h 1 Ua.4n nt.d Hd F r
N ,)f
_ _ —At1.taniAnt_
19 (A_kkir-r • -z,: Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024—2029
109
APPENDIX F: COMMUTER MAP (Ellensburg)
•
Cen-th.:,11
V,1. 01tngtor.
Wive r IV
ViliL
cc tt
F 711-k Ave
EPIensbur9 4
TL tskuu
. -— - -
E AIt
ri AYE
ro7 L oil Ave-
.0"0.
L1t
Awc
F iii Ave
-
:2t.•
E 6s4anitotsa gy•• mounLaan -
:= View Park
E View Ave KflhIii Hwy
k. 'Ile CC •
.
, .
20 4,04N,'V\ Annual Report for 2023 & Transit Development Plan 2024—2029
110
Saturday,September 21, 2024
Yakima Transit is submitting to the
Washington State Department of
Transportation its Six-Year Transit
Development Plan and Annual Report.
These documents address state and
local long & short-range priorities,
capital improvements, planned
significant operating changes and,
program funding sources for the
following six years,and the summary of
Yakima Transit's 2023 operations.
Public notice of public involvement
activities and time established for
public review of and comments on the
TIP will satisfy POP requirements.
A public hearing on the submittal will
be held Wednesday, October 9th, 2024,
at 4:30pm at Public Works, 2301
Fruitvale Blvd.,Yakima, WA 98902. The
meeting can also be attended via Zoom
conference call. To join meeting, call
US: US: +1 253 215 8782 or+1 971 247
1195 or 877 853 5247(Toll Free)or 888
788 0099 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0276
(Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free)
Webinar ID: 943 4166 4402
Passcode: 938655
A draft document and additional
meeting information including the link
to join the meeting online will be
available at www.yakimatransit.org on
September 23rd, 2024.
Final approval of the program is
anticipated to go to the Yakima City
Council on Tuesday October 15th, 2024
111
Yakima Transit Annual Report for 2023 and Six-Year Plan for 2024-2029 Public Hearing
October 9t", 2024,4:30 PM
Zoom Virtual Meeting
Hosted by Gregory Story,Yakima Transit Assistant Manager
In Attendance:
Gregory Story,Transit Assistant Manager
Yajaira Barajas, Office Assistant
Zoom meeting was tested and confirmed accessible via the link published to Yakima Transit's website
and social media accounts. Zoom meeting was tested and confirmed accessible via telephone numbers
published in the Yakima Herald.
5:30 PM—Zoom meeting called to order by Greg Story. No community participants were waiting.
5:40 PM—No community participants joined meeting. Meeting adjourned.
112