REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Authorize the Issuance of the Service Order for the Sunnyvale Microtransit Service with Via Transportation, Inc. Doing Business as Nomad Transit LLC for the Sunnyvale Microtransit Service for $8,358,000, Authorize City Manager to Execute all Agreements Related to the Operations of the Sunnyvale Microtransit Service, and Approve Budget Modification No. 14 in the Amount of $5,096,000
Report
BACKGROUND
In 2023, Council proposed a Study Issue to "Evaluate Range of Options for Shuttle Service and Alternative Transportation Options for Fremont and Homestead High School Students Who Live in North Sunnyvale" (Study Issue DPW 23-06). Study Issue DPW 23-06 was intended to evaluate various potential transportation options including, but not limited to, partnering with neighboring cities on any existing shuttle service, expanding Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) bus service, coordinating with Fremont Union High School District (FUHSD) on school bus options, and partnering with existing ride share companies.
At the January 9, 2024 Council meeting, Council directed staff to evaluate options for an on-demand shuttle service in Sunnyvale like the Silicon Valley Hopper. Council also asked staff to identify potential grant opportunities and consider replacing Study Issue DPW 23-06 with this effort.
At the March 26, 2024 Council meeting, City Council received information on potential shuttle options, authorized the City Manager to apply for microtransit grants with a 50% maximum local match, and directed staff to pause work on Study Issue DPW 23-06 until Transit & Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) or Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grants were announced (RTC No. 24-0026). Council also directed staff to explore partnerships with the Fremont Union High School District, Foothill De Anza College District, and the business community to share in the funding of a microtransit program.
In April 2024, staff worked with VTA t...
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