PowerPoint Presentation

Human Services Transportation Coordination WorkshopJuly 23-24, 2013Prepared and Presented by:Louisiana Department of Transportation & DevelopmentPublic Transportation Sectionand

PresenterJD Allen, AICP, Executive Vice PresidentAlliance Transportation Group, Inc.

Workshop AgendaDay 1Introduction to CoordinationRegional PlansCoordination ResourcesDay 2Challenges and OpportunitiesStatewide Coordination EffortsDiscussion and Next Steps

Who is Here?DOTDMPO5311 Provider5310 ProviderJARC ProviderNew Freedom ProviderOther

Who is Here?ShreveportMonroeAlexandriaLake CharlesLafayetteBaton RougeNew OrleansHouma-ThibodauxDo Any of These Apply to You?You have requests for transportation that you cant fulfill.There are times when you cant provide your agencies services to persons who need them because those individuals cannot get transportation to your facilities.Its difficult to serve some persons with special needs, such as persons who use large wheelchairs.There are times when your drivers and vehicles are not used to their full capacity.You could provide more or better transportation if there was another organization willing to help share the costs.Do Any of These Apply to You?There are times when you would like to turn the responsibility for operating transportation services over to someone else. That the need to manage drivers, maintenance, dispatching, funding, billing, vehicle acquisition and storage, and all the rest just seems like a great big hassle.The costs of providing transportation are a concern for you.You need to hire more drivers but you dont have enough funding.Do Any of These Apply to You?You need help in grant writing.You see a need to become more competitive in applying for transportation funds that now give more weight to coordinated applications.You see a need for additional driver training and dont know how to get it.You need help in recruiting and retaining volunteers.You would like to extend your service hours or service area.Coordination AppliesIf any of the above apply then:

Coordination can help!

Coordination AppliesIf none apply then:

Its the Law!Coordination Its the LawCoordination is Required in Metropolitan Transportation Planning49 USC 5303(g)(3)"Under the metropolitan planning process, transportation plans and TIPs shall be developed with due consideration of other related planning activities within the metropolitan area, and the process shall provide for the design and delivery of transportation services within the metropolitan area that are provided by--(A) recipients [of Federal transit assistance]; (B) governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations (including representatives of the agencies and organizations) that receive Federal assistance from a source other than the Department of Transportation to provide nonemergency transportation services; and (C) recipients of assistance under section 204 of title 23 [i.e., the Federal Lands Highway Program].Coordination Its the LawCoordination is Required in Statewide Transportation Planning49 USC 5304(e)"In carrying out [statewide transportation] planning under this section, each State shall consider, at a minimum...coordination of transportation plans, the transportation improvement program, and planning activities with related planning activities being carried out outside of metropolitan planning areas and between States."

Coordination Its the LawCoordination is Required for Urban Public Transit49 USC 5307(c)(5)"[Each recipient of a grant under this section shall] ensure that the proposed program of projects provides for the coordination of public transportation services assisted under section 5336 of this title [i.e., formula-based grants for public transportation in urbanized areas] with transportation services assisted from other United States Government sources."Coordination Its the LawCoordination is Required in Designing and Providing Transportation for Elderly Individuals and Persons with Disabilities49 USC 5310(d)(2)"[Each] grant recipient under this section shall certify that--(i) the projects selected were derived from a locally developed, coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan; and (ii) the plan was developed through a process that included representatives of public, private and nonprofit transportation and human services providers and participation by the public." 49 USC 5310(e)(2): "A State shall submit annually to the Secretary [of Transportation] for approval a program of projects [to be supported with funds apportioned to the State under this section]. The program shall contain an assurance that the program provides for maximum feasible coordination of transportation services assisted under this section with transportation services assisted by other Government sources."Coordination Its the LawCoordination is Required for Rural Public Transit49 USC 5311(b)(2)(C)"The Secretary [of Transportation] may not approve [a State's] program [of projects to be supported with funds apportioned to the State under this section] unless the Secretary determines that...the program provides the maximum feasible coordination of public transportation service assisted under this section with transportation services assisted by other Federal sources."Coordination Its the LawCoordination is Required in Designing and Providing Job Access and Reverse Commute Transportation Services49 USC 5316(g)"The Secretary [of Transportation] shall coordinate activities under this section with related activities under programs of other Federal departments and agencies...A recipient of funds under this section shall certify to the Secretary that...the projects selected were derived from a locally developed, coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan...and the plan was developed through a process that included representatives of public, private and nonprofit transportation and human services providers and participation by the public."Coordination Its the LawCoordination is Required in Designing and Providing New Freedom Transportation Services for Persons with Disabilities49 USC 5317(f)"The Secretary [of Transportation] shall coordinate activities under this section with related activities under programs of other Federal departments and agencies...A recipient of funds under this section shall certify to the Secretary that...the projects selected were derived from a locally developed, coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan...and the plan was developed through a process that included representatives of public, private and nonprofit transportation and human services providers and participation by the public."SAFETEA-LU MandatesProjects selected must be derived from a locally developed, coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan. Plans must be developed through a process that includes representatives of public, private, and nonprofit transportation and human services providers and participation by the public.

MAP-21 MandatesCoordination with human services will remain a requirement for FTA grantees across the range of all non-rail FTA programs. Coordination with human services continues to be a requirement of statewide and metropolitan transportation planning, and coordination of service delivery continues to be a requirement in all three core FTA grant programs as authorized by MAP-21: Section 5307, 5310 and 5311. What is CoordinationAn opportunity to identify mobility needsAn opportunity to develop a shared understanding the Big PictureA shift away from providing rides toward managing mobility

What is CoordinationA process in which two or more organizations (that may not have worked together previously) interact to accomplish their transportation objectives.A technique for better resource management.Improved organization strategies achieve greater cost-effectiveness in service delivery.A way to stretch scarce resources and improve mobility of everyone.What is CoordinationCoordinating transportation services is like any political process - It involves changing environments, conflicts regarding power and control over resources, and competing goals or personalities.Shared PowerShared responsibilityShared managementShared fundingShared benefit

Coordination RequirementsCoordination requires building trust relationships.Coordination requires diligence and a continued commitment to the process by ALL parties.Without ongoing active participation by all members, coordination efforts will fall apart.Alliances will disintegrate.Progress will halt.

Coordination RequirementsOpen-minded approachWillingness to do things differently than beforeSignificant investment in time and effort before you see real benefits

Purpose of CoordinationImproved utilization of resourcesReduction or elimination of duplicationReduction in operating costsShared maintenanceShared dispatchingShared administrationReduction in capital expensesSimplified access for usersEnhanced quality of serviceCoordination BenefitsLower trip costs for travelersLower overall costs for human service agenciesExpanded human services providedAlternatives to institutionalizationAlternatives to high routine medical costs in the emergency roomIncreased local economic development through better access to jobsCoordination BenefitsExpanded/extended service hoursExpanded service areasMore trips made by persons needing transportationServices more responsive to customers schedules, points of origin, and destinationsMore door-to-door serviceMore flexible payment and service optionsKey Coordination StrategiesIncrease labor productivityEliminate overlapping driver assignmentsDrivers from different agencies traveling same routes at the same timeCombine other administrative functionsTransportation DirectorDispatchersBookkeepersOffice StaffMaintenance Personnel

Key Coordination StrategiesCoordinate dispatchingCentralized dispatching can increase overall level of productivity (the number of seats filled on the vehicles)Decrease the administrative staff requiredReduced vehicles needed to serve the areaFewer computersFewer phones and phone linesLess office space

Key Coordination StrategiesExpand service hoursOffer weekend or evening hoursShared responsibility for expanded hours (alternating shifts)Expand service areasClient needs dont generally end at jurisdictional boundariesOptions other than trip denial

Key Coordination StrategiesIncrease funding opportunitiesFunding priorities giving to coordinated servicesTwo heads are better than one new federal guidelines for collaborative effortsJoint maintenanceEspecially where larger transit agencies can service smaller agency vehicles

History of Coordination1990s:Inter Agency Transportation Coordination Committee (IATCC) formed in 1992 under Gov. Edwards and was continued by Gov. Foster. Tasked with collecting data on transportation services & making recommendations for coordination of those services.IATCC Died with Governor BlancoDOTD develops Statewide Coordination Opportunity Plan (SCOP) identified statewide areas of needLouisiana adopts Vision 2010 Plan

History of CoordinationIATCC Challenges Met:Mid-level managers from various state agencies began working to solve problemsSome coordination occurredGood recommendations made in report to GovernorIATCC Challenges Unmet:Lack of support from the GovernorMandated to collect data, but no sense of urgencyRecommendations went unanswered by Gov/legislatureHistory of CoordinationLouisiana Vision 2020:

The success of the states workforce development initiatives, welfare reform, and motor vehicle insurance requirements depend on the availability of public transportation service to all citizens regardless of where they reside. Public transportation is necessary for access to education, training, and employment, particularly for people in the lower income levels (i.e. those without automobiles and those who cannot afford insurance). History of Coordination2003:Transportation Service Coordination SummitA listening meeting to gather information from transportation providers from across the state regarding barriers to effective coordination.Rayville coordination MeetingDOTD and DSS met with representatives of nine parishes to discuss public transportation issues.Survey of State AgenciesDOTD gathered data from state agencies regarding expenditure of funds for transportation services.

History of Coordination2004:Federal government initiated a new program aimed at coordinating transportation for disadvantaged populations: United We RideFTA created a self-assessment resource tool: A Framework for Action Building the Fully Coordinated Transportation SystemPresident Bush signed EO establishing the Interagency Transportation Coordination Council on Access and Mobility (CCAM) mandates eliminating duplication and overlap in federal programs funding transportation services and facilitating access to the most appropriate & cost effective transportation services available

History of Coordination2005:United We Ride: Task Force met several times in 2005 and completed the Self-Assessment for States. Resulted in a statewide plan:

Louisiana Action Plan forStatewide Transportation Coordination

History of Coordination2005: President Bush signed into law the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users act

SAFETEA-LU

2006: FTA published guidelines for Sections 5310, 5311, 5316, and 5317 that required that all projects:

be derived from a locally developed, coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan

History of Coordination2007:DOTD created a state-wide coordination plan for human services public transportationDOTD assisted 8 regions of the state to each create a locally developed, coordinated public transit-human services transportation plan2008:DOTD conducts 2 day workshop on coordinationDOTD updates statewide coordination plan

DistrictParishesNew OrleansJefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, St. John the Baptist, St. CharlesBaton RougeAscension, E. Baton Rouge, E. Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupe, St. Helena, Tangipahoa, Washington, W. Baton Rouge, W. FelicianaHouma/ThibodauxAssumption, Lafourche, St. James, TerrebonneLafayetteAcadia, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Mary, VermillionLake CharlesAllen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson DavisAlexandriaAvoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, La Salle, Rapides, Vernon, WinnShreveportBienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, De Soto, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, WebsterMonroeCaldwell, E. Carroll, Franklin, Jackson, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, Union, W. Carroll

ShreveportMonroeAlexandriaLake CharlesLafayetteBaton RougeNew OrleansHouma-ThibodauxHistory of Coordination2011:Louisiana Legislature passes HCR 131DOTD holds coordination workshop in Marksville2011/2012:DOTD forms HSTC Work GroupBreak15 minutes

Regional PlansSteps to developing a plan:Identify the issue, challenge or problem to be addressedEvaluate the issueBackground, need, constraints, resources available and neededDevelop a mission statementCreate goalsConstruct action stepsRegional PlansSteps to developing a plan:Where are we? What is our current situation?What do we have to work with?Where do we want to be?How do we get there?

Regional PlansFederal Regulations Required Elements:An inclusive planning processAn assessment of available servicesAn assessment of needsGap analysis resources vs. needsStrategies to address gaps for target populationsMethod for prioritizing strategiesAction Plan for implementing coordination

Who is ParticipatingLikely suspects include:Metropolitan Planning OrganizationRegional Planning CommissionDOTD Public TransportationSection 5311 providersSection 5310 providersSection 5307 providersWho is Participating (cont.)Likely suspects include:Council on Aging (likely a 5311 or 5310 provider)Area Agency on Aging (likely a 5311 or 5310 provider)Local Area Arc (likely a 5311 or 5310 provider)Department of Children & Family Services (Social Services)Department of Health and Hospitals

Who Should Be ParticipatingAARP representativeLocal nursing homesLocal HospitalsLocal United Way representativeLocal State Legislators (or at least their representative)Local Elected OfficialsLocal Workforce Investment Board

50Who Did We Forget?Fill in HereSchoolsGoodwill/Easter SealsVeterans Affairs

51Who Did We Forget?SchoolsGoodwill/Easter SealsVeterans AffairsChurchesIndian Reservations

52Data CollectionWho is providing services in our region?Do we know all of the providers?Public, private, nonprofit?Where are services provided and not provided?Who needs services in our region?Census dataHuman service providersSurveysGap AnalysisWhere is the service matched with the need?Where are there overlaps in service?Where is there need - without service?Current IssuesIdentify the current transportation issuesTraveling across parish boundaries is difficult unless you driveCurrent transportation services are fragmentedNon-drivers have few travel optionsThere is some limited coordination, but there are still service gaps and overlaps, and substantial system inefficiency. Significant productivity and efficiency improvements are possible.Current IssuesIdentify the current transportation issues (continued)No one knows or manages the entire travel options picture: there is no parish or regional source to call which can direct the public to the best source of transportation to meet a specific needCurrent public and agency services need improvementThere are reported difficulties in obtaining ridesFull cost accounting is not generally practicedThe number of rides provided could be improvedGoals and ObjectivesThe goal is where we want to be. The objectives are the steps needed to get there.

Measurable objectives are the specific measures we use to determine whether or not we are successful in achieving the goal.

Remember:Goals are broad; objectives are narrowGoals are general intentions; objectives are preciseGoals are intangible; objectives are tangibleGoals are abstract; objectives are concreteGoals and ObjectivesGoal:Improve transportation services information delivery for all travelers in our regionObjectives:Collect information on all transportation servicesDevelop a website listing all transportation servicesDevelop a one-call number that provides information on all transportation services

Goals and ObjectivesReassess your plans goalsEnsure that you have developed measurable objectives that will lead your coordination efforts toward your goals

Potential Action StepsBeginningFormalize regional / sub-regional leadership councilsDevelop coordination agreements between transportation providersNext StepsLink the parish public transit services at transit hubsProvide easily-accessed regional transportation informationPotential Action Steps (cont.)Further in the ProcessCreate a regional trip broker to administer and monitor tripsAdd new transportation hours, services and areasStill Further in the ProcessCentralize management and administrative functionsConsolidate some transportation operationsPerformance MeasuresLower cost per vehicle hour or passenger mileReferred to as resource efficiency increases, which means more service outputs for the same resource inputsMore passenger trips per vehicle hour or vehicle mileReferred to as service effectiveness increases, which means more services consumed for the same service outputsLower costs per tripReferred to as cost effectiveness increases, which means more services consumed for the same resource inputsResults of the PlanKinds of improvements observed as a result of plan implementationTraveling across parish boundaries in modes other than autos is becoming less difficult than it used to beCurrent transportation services are documented; information is available on a comprehensive basis; coordination of operations is occurringNon-drivers have more travel options than before

Results of the PlanKinds of improvements observed as a result of plan implementation (continued)On-going coordination has decreased the problems of service gaps and overlaps and substantial system inefficiency; significant productivity and efficiency improvements have been made Centralized information is available concerning the entire travel options picture: there is one or more centralized source[s] to call to inform the public about the best source of transportation to meet a specific needResults of the PlanKinds of improvements observed as a result of plan implementation (continued)Improvements have been made to public and agency transportation servicesThere are fewer difficulties in obtaining rides than beforeFull cost accounting is generally practiced among transportation providers and purchasersThe number of rides provided has increasedImplementation BenefitsBenefits of implementing the planMore riders per trip, which creates a more cost-effective use of drivers time and lowers the average cost per tripMore transportation services available to more peopleTransportation services available to a larger service area and at more timesA focal point for information about all transportation services in the regionImplementation BenefitsBenefits of implementing the plan (continued)A one-stop shopping approach -- one number to call when individuals need a ride or their advocates need informationAgencies for whom transportation is not a focal point of their mission (and perhaps a burden to them) turn this responsibility over to transportation professionalsLower-cost operators (including those who can use volunteers) provide some trips at lower costs than some of the high-wage agenciesImplementation BenefitsBenefits of implementing the plan (continued)Transportation professionals provide some services (such as dispatching, maintenance, training, planning, administration, grant applications, etc) that may be more expensive or difficult for non-transportation agencies to procureAgencies save costs on administration, office space and equipment, training, and the capital costs of vehicles by working togetherImplementation BenefitsBenefits of implementing the plan (continued)Coordinated transportation services, operating at higher levels of efficiency and cost-effectiveness, more readily obtain the financial and political support of their communitiesPlanning Process EvaluationWhat have we done?What did it cost us?Did we do it when we thought we would?What did we produce?How can we do it better?

Your Regional PlanWhat is happening in your area?Where are you in the planning process?

Break into your Regions and Discuss

Where are you in the planning process?Be prepared to give a status report.20 minutesCoordination ResourcesFederal Funding ProgramsTransit Cooperative Research ProgramCommunity Self Assessment ToolUnited We RideNational Resource Center for Human Service Transportation CoordinationGovernment Accountability OfficeOther Resources

Federal Funding ProgramsAccording to GAO estimates, there are between 62 and 80 federal funding streamsMedicaid is by far the largest direct funding mechanism for transportation servicesFederal Funding ProgramsMost commonly used for coordination include:MedicaidTANFFTA Section 5310, Elderly and Persons with DisabilitiesFTA Section 5311, Other than Urbanized Formula Grant ProgramFTA Section 5307, Urbanized Area GrantsFTA Section 5316, Job Access and Reverse Commute (phased out)FTA Section 5317, New Freedom (phased out)Administration on Aging, Title III BVocational RehabilitationVeterans Care

Federal Funding ProgramsMAP-21: JARC (5316) and New Freedom (5317)Significant changes in MAP-21 include the end of both JARC and New Freedom as distinct programs. Both survive as eligible activities. JARC-type projects will be eligible activities under the rural (Section 5311) and urban (Section 5307) funding provisions. New Freedom-type projects will be allowable under Section 5310 regarding seniors and people with disabilities.MAP-21 became effective on Oct. 1, 2012 and will remain in effect until Sept. 30, 2014. Funds already obligated for these programs may be expended for current JARC and New Freedom projects through Sept. 30, 2014.MedicaidCenters for Medicare and Medicaid Services, US Department of Health and Human ServicesThe Medicaid program ensures medical assistance to qualified persons, such as certain low-income individuals and families, who fit into an eligibility group that is recognized by federal and state law.The Medicaid program provides more funding for specialized transportation than any other Federal program. Medicaids Federal transportation expenses equal two-thirds of all of the other expenses of all other Federal transportation programs combined.Medicaid (cont.)While state funding for Medicaid transportation services is difficult to document on a national basis, the combination of state and Federal funding for Medicaid transportation is probably about $2 billion per year at this time.Within broad national guidelines which the Federal government provides, each of the States establishes its own eligibility standards; determines the type, amount, duration, and scope of services; sets the rate of payment for services; and administers its own program.Medicaid (cont.)The program is structured on a reimbursement basis: individual trips must be authorized in advance, substantial documentation that the trip actually occurred must be provided, and there may be a significant waiting period before expenses are reimbursed.The administrative and reporting requirements are substantial. Per trip reimbursements are most often based on strict reimbursement schedules which may not reflect the actual costs of providing transportation.DHH Regions

TANFAdministration for Children and Families, US DHHSThe Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides block grants to states to help families transition from welfare to self-sufficiency. TANF funds provide cash assistance, work opportunities, and necessary support services for needy families with children.

TANF (cont.)States may choose to spend some of their TANF funds on transportation to purchase and/or operate vehicles, as well as reimburse costs of transportation. While some states spend no TANF dollars on transportation, the national average for state TANF transportation expenses is about 2 percent of TANF funds received by all states.In 2011, Louisiana spent ~ $233 million in TANF funds.

Title III Programs for the Elderly: Grants for State and Community Programs on AgingAdministration on Aging, US DHHSTitle III of the Older Americans Act is entitled Grants for State and Community Programs on Aging. Section 311 of the Act (Title III B) authorizes funding for Supportive Services and Senior Centers.This section enables funding for a long list of home and community-based supportive services including transportation, health, education and training, welfare, information dissemination or referral services, recreation, homemaker, counseling, transportation, access services, housing, and many other services.

Urbanized Area Formula Program: Section 5307Federal Transit Administration, US DOTThe Section 5307 program provides Federal funds to urbanized areas (areas with populations of 50,000 or more) and to Governors for transit capital and operating assistance in urbanized areas and for transportation planning. For urbanized areas with populations of 200,000 and over, funds flow directly to the designated local recipient. For urbanized areas under 200,000 in population, the funds are apportioned to the Governor of each state for distribution. Eligible purposes for expenditures include planning, capital investments in bus and bus-related activities, and capital investments in new and existing fixed guideway systems. All preventive maintenance and some Americans with Disabilities Act complementary paratransit service costs are considered capital costs.Formula Program for Elderly Persons and Persons with Disabilities: Section 5310 Federal Transit Administration, US DOTSection 5310, the Formula Program for Elderly Persons and Persons with Disabilities program, provides formula funding to States for the purpose of assisting private nonprofit groups and certain public bodies in meeting the special transportation needs of seniors and persons with disabilities. Funds are apportioned based on each States share of population for these groups of people and are primarily to be used for capital expenses but may include purchase-of-service agreements.Formula Program for Elderly Persons and Persons with Disabilities: Section 5310 (cont.) Federal Transit Administration, US DOTThis program requires coordination with other federally assisted programs and services in order to provide the most effective use of federal resources. Not-for-profit, public transit, and/or specialized human service providers are awarded funds, by States, to purchase buses, vans, and related capital items, and to engage in contracts for the purchase of transportation services.Funds are obligated based on the annual program of projects included in a statewide grant application. The State agency ensures that local applicants and project activities are eligible and in compliance with Federal requirements, that private not-for-profit transportation providers have an opportunity to participate as feasible. The program requires a coordinated planning process with other Federally-assisted programs and services.Section 5311: Other than Urbanized Formula Grant ProgramFederal Transit Administration, US DOTSection 5311 provides funds for public transportation services in rural and small urban communities with populations under 50,000 persons.The goals of the nonurbanized formula grants program are to:enhance the access of people in nonurbanized areas to health care, shopping, education, employment, pubic services, and recreation; assist in the maintenance, development, improvement, and use of public transportation systems in rural and small urban areas;Section 5311: Other than Urbanized Formula Grant Program (cont.)encourage and facilitate the most efficient use of all Federal funds used to provide passenger transportation in nonurbanized areas through the coordination of programs and services;assist in the development and support of intercity bus transportation;provide for the participation of private transportation providers in nonurbanized transportation to the maximum extent feasible.Section 5311 funds are distributed to states which in turn designate local recipients. Local program recipients are usually designated units of government, including transit authorities. Local recipients can provide or purchase transportation services.

JARC: Section 5311 & 5307Federal Transit Administration, US DOTJARC activities are given a new definition in MAP-21: "Job access and reverse commute project' means a transportation project to finance planning, capital, and operating costs that support the development and maintenance of transportation services designed to transport welfare recipients and eligible low-income individuals to and from jobs and activities related to their employment, including transportation projects that facilitate the provision of public transportation services from urbanized areas and rural areas to suburban employment locations." (The old definition under SAFETEA-LU was slightly different, with specific language about vouchers and transit passes.) Vanpool vehicles are now included as permissible expenses.New Freedom: Section 5310Federal Transit Administration, US DOTDOT may make grants under this section to a recipient for new public transportation services and public transportation alternatives that assist individuals with disabilities with transportation; these activities must be beyond those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Transportation to and from jobs and employment support services can be included.Vocational RehabilitationGrants to StatesRehabilitation Services Administration, US DOEThe Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) oversees six formula and discretionary grant programs that help individuals with physical or mental disabilities obtain employment and live more independently through the provision of such supports as counseling, medical and psychological services, job training and other individualized services, such as travel and related expenses. RSA's Title I formula grant program provides funds to state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies to provide employment-related services for individuals with disabilities, giving priority to individuals who are significantly disabled.Vocational RehabilitationGrants to States (cont.)Transportation services that enable an individual to participate in a VR service are an allowable expense for VR programs. Allowable expenditures include costs of purchased services from public and private vendors. School transportation, transportation support services including travel training and service coordination, and private vehicle purchase are among the allowable expenses provided through funding in the Title I formula grant program.Veterans Medical Care BenefitsDepartment of Veterans AffairsVeterans of military service may be eligible for a wide range of hospital-based services, medications, and outpatient medical services. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the operating unit of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that acts as a direct provider of primary care, specialized care, and related medical and social support services to veterans through the VA health care system.In addition to reimbursing individual veterans, many VA Medical Centers have travel offices that may offer their own transportation services, may contract directly with transportation providers for some trips to VA Medical Centers, or may work with volunteer networks to provide transportation for veterans seeking health care. Trip orders come from the VA travel office, not the rider. Typical contracts specify a base fare for each trip and a mileage charge but some contracts pay strictly on a mileage basis.Other Potential ProgramsCongestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ)Federal Highway Administration, US DOTThe National Strategy to Reduce Congestion on Americas Transportation Network provides the framework for government officials, the private sector, and the citizen-user, to take the necessary steps to make todays congestion a thing of the past.Solutions require a smarter approach to capacity expansion and improved productivity of existing transportation assets.Other Potential Programs (cont.)Developmental DisabilitiesAdministration for Children and Families, US DHHSThe Developmental Disabilities program provides financial assistance to State governments, local communities, and the private sector to assist people with developmental disabilities (severe, chronic, and possibly permanent disabilities attributable to physical or mental impairment) reach their potentials through increased independence, productivity, inclusion, and community integration.Agencies serving individuals with developmental disabilities typically provide transportation directly to their own clients, although some DD-funded agencies purchase transportation from other providers.Other Potential Programs (cont.)Workforce Investment Act ProgramsEmployment and Training Administration, US DOLWIA offers workforce development activities through statewide and local organizations. Workforce development activities provided in local communities are intended to benefit job seekers, laid off workers, youth, incumbent workers, new entrants to the workforce, veterans, persons with disabilities, and employers. These activities are designed to promote an increase in the employment, job retention, earnings, and occupational skills improvement by participants. These funds may be used to help provide transportation to training programs for program participants. Transportation is considered as a supportive service that may be approved under certain circumstances to allow an individual to participate in the program.

Other Potential Programs (cont.)Head StartAdministration for Children and Families, US DHHSHead Start is a national program which provides comprehensive developmental services for America's low-income, pre-school children ages three to five and social services for their families. Specific services for children focus on education, socio-emotional development, physical and mental health, and nutrition. Head Start mandates place this program under the Department of Education; this means that the program must adopt school bus standards (e.g., for vehicles and for seat belt restraints) for transportation. Use of these 16 regulations has made coordination with other local public or human service transportation operations a difficult process in some communities. Other Potential Programs (cont.)Community Services Block GrantsAdministration for Children and Families, US DHHSCommunity Services Block Grant (CSBG) program provides resources to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty. The CSBG statute requires that 90 percent of block grant funds to the states be passed through to the local eligible entities and that states use no more than 5 percent for their administrative costs. The remaining 5 percent of funds may be used for a range of state discretionary programs to accomplish the CSBG statutory purposes. Because the needs of low- income people vary, a program like CSBG that is intended to fight many causes of poverty must offer a broad array of services; transportation is often seen as a key service in addressing poverty issues. These services are delivered in most communities through the local Community Action Agency or a similar organization funded by the states.Other Potential Programs (cont.)Social Services Block GrantsAdministration for Children and Families, US DHHSThis program, also known as Title XX of the Social Security Act, provides formula funds to state welfare agencies to provide needed social services, including transportation services, that help individuals reduce welfare dependency, achieve self-sufficiency or forestall unnecessary use of institutional care. The state may transfer up to ten percent of its allotment for any fiscal year to the preventive health and health services, alcohol and drug abuse, mental health services, maternal and child health services, and low-income home energy assistance block grants. Purchase of transportation services is an eligible expense under this program.Other Potential Programs (cont.)Community Mental Health Services Block GrantsSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, US DHHSThe Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS), in partnership with States, leads national efforts to demonstrate, evaluate, and disseminate service delivery models to treat mental illness, promote mental health and prevent the development or worsening of mental illness when possible. Transportation is an allowable expense within the CMHSBG but is not generally a significant component of CMHSBG-funded activities.

Other Potential Programs (cont.)Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block GrantSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, US DHHSThe Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT), Division of State and Community Assistance (DSCA), developed a State Systems Development Program (SSDP) to enhance Federal and State accountability for the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment (SAPT) Block Grant. Transportation is an allowable expense within the substance abuse prevention and/or treatment related activities funded under the SSDP. However, SAMHSA does not require the States to report on transportation activities or the expenditure of funds for transportation activities. Transportation is not likely to be a significant component of SAPTBG-funded activities.

TCRPTCRP Report 91Economic Benefits of Coordinating Human Service Transportation and Transit ServicesTCRP Report 101Toolkit for Rural Community Coordinated Transportation ServicesTCRP Report 105Strategies to Increase Coordination of Transportation Services for the Transportation DisadvantagedCommunity Self Assessment ToolSection 1: Making Things Happen by Working Together Section 2: Taking Stock of Community Needs and Moving Forward Section 3: Putting Customers First Section 4: Adapting Funding for Greater Mobility Section 5: Moving People EfficientlyUnited We RideA federal interagency initiative aimed at improving the availability, quality, and efficient delivery of transportation services for older adults, people with disabilities, and individuals with lower incomes.United We Ride initiative was started by the Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility (CCAM), a federal interagency council established by President George W. Bush by Executive Order in 2004.NRCThe National Resource Center for Human Service Transportation Coordination (NRC) was established as a result of SAFETEA-LU. It is operated by the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) through a cooperative agreement with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). NRC has 10 UWR Ambassadors that provide states and territories with hands-on technical assistance in developing and implementing coordinated human service transportation.Government Accountability OfficeOctober 1999 - Transportation Coordination Benefits and Barriers Exist, and Planning Efforts Progress SlowlyJune 2003 - Transportation Disadvantaged Populations Some Coordination Efforts Among Programs Providing Transportation Services, but Obstacles PersistMarch 1, 2010 - Opportunities to Reduce Potential Duplication in Government Programs, Save Tax Dollars, and Enhance RevenueGovernment Accountability OfficeMarch 18, 2011 - Supplement to the March 1, 2010 Report, List of Selected Federal Programs That Have Similar or Overlapping Objectives, Provide Similar Services, or Are Fragmented Across Government MissionsJune 2012 Transportation Disadvantaged Populations: Federal Coordination Efforts Could Be Further Strengthened

Other ResourcesUWR Report to the President on Human Service Transportation Coordination (EO 13330) 2005National Conference of State LegislatorsCenter for Urban Transportation ResearchOther State Programs

End of Day 1See you tomorrow morning at8:00 amChallenges to Coordination62 Federal funding streamsMultiple reporting requirementsInstitutional barriers at federal and state levelTurf issuesSmall non-profits have few resources for planningLack of leadershipLack of perceived benefitCoordination OpportunitiesSTTARS Statewide Transit Tracking and Reporting SystemProvide standardized reportProvide statewide and regional data for analysisRenewed statewide coordination effortsMAP-21Coordination is being integrated into all new legislation

Coordination OpportunitiesAddress gaps in service geographicallyAddress gaps in service to target population groupsReduce duplication of serviceReduce inefficient use of resourcesControl escalating costsAddress poor or inconsistent quality of service

Challenges and OpportunitiesWhat are the challenges facing your region?What are the opportunities available in your region?

Break into your Regions and discuss

Come up with a list of Challenges and Opportunities20 MinutesBreak15 minutes

Statewide CoordinationUnited We Ride Task Force met in 2005 and developed the:

Louisiana Action Plan forStatewide Transportation Coordination

UWR LA Statewide PlanFrom the UWR coordination work done at the state level four key components of coordination were identified:Accurate DataSupport StructureFrequent InteractionAdequate ResourcesAccurate DataCoordination cannot be effective without:Knowing where all the assets are (providers, equipment, facilities, etc.)Having a process for measuring effectiveness for comparing dataMaintaining complete financial and ridership recordsAccurate Data (cont.)Keep all records in the same format and in one place so that they can be used to document, analyze and evaluate all transportation programsHave someone who is responsible for looking at the data to find coordination opportunities on a regular basisMaintain a Clearinghouse on Transportation Disadvantaged Populations one place for all data to reside so everyone can use it, and analyze it Support StructureThe Interagency Transportation Coordination Council (IATCC) needs to become a truly effective Board by:Regulating, mandating and enforcing/encouraging coordination from the top downBeing legislatively mandatedCreating interagency MOUs that support consistent data collection, and other coordination effortsFrequent InteractionCoordination requires frequent interaction between all the agencies and individuals involved in the coordination effort:Need the Governors interaction, involvement, and coordination with the legislatureNeed regular interaction between state departments/divisionsNeed occasional interaction between the 8 regional coordination teamsNeed regular interaction between the local coordination team membersAdequate ResourcesCoordination requires adequate resources from the state, to:Provide the infrastructure to support coordinationProvide minimal upfront $$$, to reap large rewards in the long termStatewide CoordinationHouse Concurrent Resolution No. 131To create and form a Human Services Coordinated Transit Work Group, led by the DOTD, with active support and leadership commitment from both public and private stakeholders to improve mobility, optimize efficiencies, and manage costs of transit and paratransit services for both able-bodied and disabled persons.Statewide CoordinationHouse Concurrent Resolution No. 131 (continued)The work group shall convene no later than October 1, 2011, to review best practices in other areas in the nation, the 2003 GAO Report, the 2005 United We Ride Task Force Report, 2010 census data, and other relevant reports and information that help to establish existing conditions, forecast needs, identify gaps, control costs, and make existing services more effective and prepared for the future.Statewide CoordinationHouse Concurrent Resolution No. 131 (continued)The work group shall report its findings and recommendations to the legislature prior to the convening of the 2012 Regular Session of the Legislature of Louisiana.Statewide CoordinationHCR 131 Participants:A representative of AARPA representative of the Center for Planning ExcellenceA representative of the NORPCA representative of the SCPDCA representative of a COAA representative of the Gov.s Office of Elderly AffairsA representative of the LA Public Health InstituteA representative of the ARCStatewide CoordinationHCR 131 Participants: (cont.)A representative of Vet-TransA representative of Catholic Charities of New OrleansA representative of PACE New OrleansA representative from the private sector providers of human services transportA representative of the Area Agency on AgingRepresentatives of DHH (who will collectively have 1 vote)A representative of the LA APAStatewide CoordinationHCR 131 Participants: (cont.)A representative of the LA Association of Social WorkersA representative of the Greater New Orleans FoundationA representative of the LPTAA representative of the Statewide Independent Living CouncilA representative of the LA Workforce CommissionA representative of LA Rehabilitation ServicesA representative of IMCALStatewide CoordinationHCR 131 reported to the Legislature March 2012Report included many recommendations for statewide coordinationReport listed benefits to the stateLegislature passed HCR 181 to continue workgroup effortsStatewide CoordinationHCR 181 reported to the Legislature March 2013 over 30 specific recommendations including: Establish an independent interagency Louisiana Mobility Council (LMC) to oversee statewide coordination of all human services public transportation and bring to fruition the Groups recommendations; Create a State Mobility Manager to implement the recommendations and the eventual establishment of the LMC; Statewide CoordinationHCR 181 report recommendations continued: Institute statewide procedures for: a single call point of contact for transit service; a clearing house for coordinating grant applications; researching additional sources of funding; a reduced cost provider insurance program; a reduced fuel rate card for providers; a customer/rider identification and data card; a single website for customers and providers to reference transit information; data collection to provide a geographic reference to needs and resources for gaps in coverage; resolving boundary disputes; determining resources to enhance emergency procedures with GOHSEP; implementing standards for training, equipment, safety, communication, emergency procedures, and performance measurements; Statewide CoordinationHCR 181 report recommendations continued: Form co-ops of smaller agencies; Expand workshops for federal applications, identify best practices that include effective administration, safety, and service; Review local, state, and federal regulations for barriers to efficiencies; Identify needs for facility improvements. Statewide CoordinationHCR 181 report included Next Steps: Continue to present the Business case to the executive level of all agencies to alert them to cost savings and achieve top down backing for obtaining asset data to expand the Resource Guide.Distribute the new survey.Standardize the data collection and storage for uniformity and interoperability.Statewide CoordinationHCR 181 report included Next Steps - continued: Implement the Resource Guide into the 211 call centers.Refine recommendations into specific actions needed and allocate responsibilities for accomplishing them.Continue to lay the ground work for eventually funding and organizing a permanent independent transit coordination council.Statewide CoordinationLTRC Research ProjectDevelop a statewide database of all transportation resources to utilize in emergency preparednessStatewide CoordinationWhat can the DOTD do for the regions?What are some recommendations for assistance with coordination efforts?

Break into your Regions and Discuss

Come up with SuggestionsConclusionsWhat do we do?Provide rides sureFundamentally, we provide opportunity where none might otherwise existAccessibility to jobs, services and health careAlternative to institutionalization through increased socializationConclusionsRemember:Coordinating transportation services is like any political process. It involves changing environments, conflicts regarding power and control over resources, and competing goals or personalities.

ConclusionsCoordination is all about:Better resource managementDeveloping trustShared responsibility and respectCoordination is a continuumYou dont ever get there you just get better!

QuestionsHelpful LinksNational Resource Center for Human Service Transportation Coordination (NRC)United We Ride (UWR)Community Self-Assessment ToolCWLA 2011 Report on Louisianas Children Louisiana Transit Resource Guide