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PENINSULA CORRIDOR JOINT POWERS BOARD
Minutes
Thursday, March 6, 2003 at 10:00 a.m.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: John McLemore (Chair), Maria
Ayerdi (Vice Chair), Michael Burns, Mary Janney, Arthur Lloyd, Michael Nevin,
Manuel Valerio, Ken Yeager
BOARD MEMBER ABSENT: Sophie Maxwell
STAFF PRESENT: Mike Scanlon, David Miller, Joan
Cassman, George Cameron, Roger Contreras, Howard Goode, Chuck Harvey, Rita
Haskin, Martha Martinez, Jennifer Buhr, Ian McAvoy, Liz Wiecha
Chair McLemore called the meeting to order at 10:05 a.m. and led the Pledge of
Allegiance to the flag.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Vaughn Wolffe, RailPac, commented on the verbiage
within the newspaper regarding Measure B in San Mateo County and the
relationship between BART and Caltrain. Mr. Wolffe expressed his confusion for
the consideration for it because, assuming it will not take away the Caltrain
right of way, the building of four tracks of Caltrain will make the current
BART route more than five times the capacity. Mr. Wolffe questioned where the
capacity will really be needed. Further, Mr. Wolffe reported that there are no
six track rail lines, within this density, anywhere else in the United States.
Most of the BART population coming from the East Bay, which is south of Hayward,
so there is no obvious advantage. Mr. Wolffe suggested targeting one of the
SamTrans staff to advocate for Caltrain and compile all arguments together
before promotion.
CONSENT CALENDAR
The Board unanimously approved the following items
under the Consent Calendar:
- Adoption of minutes of February 6, 2003
- Statement of Revenue and Expense, January 2003
- Authorize and Amendment to Increase the FY2003 Capital Budget in the
Amount of $150,000 for a New Total Budget of $87,196,668
- Authorize Award of Contracts to Ross Financial for Providing
Independent Financial Advisory Services
The Board, by roll call, unanimously approved all items listed under the
Consent Calendar.
Maria Ayerdi, Vice Chair, commented in respect to item (c), which authorizes
the increase of $150,000 to assist with the San Francisco downtown extension
Transbay Project. On behalf of the Transbay Joint Powers Authority and the
Mayor's Office, Ms. Ayerdi expressed recognition and gratitude to the Caltrain
staff for their efforts with the project.
CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT
- Santa Clara County held an election, on Tuesday, and the Measure for the
San Jose Airport passed 58 to 42 percent. Moving forward with the
improvements of the airport.
- Michael Burns recognized John Hirten, of San Francisco Muni, who is
retiring. Mr. Burns expressed gratitude for all of Mr. Hirten's hard work in
representing San Francisco and Muni. Additionally, Mike Scanlon recognized Mr.
Hirten as a key player interfacing with the staff and serving on the SCC.
- Commendations were presented by Chair McLemore and Vice Chair Ayerdi to
Kevin Solomon, Mountain View Police Officer, Tammy Smith, Teresa Strickland,
Mountain View police dispatchers, Keith McInerney, Manager of Caltrain
Commuter Operations, and Jim Smith, Caltrain Engineer, for their heroic act
of exceptional teamwork and efficiency in adverting a collision between Train
No. 91 and a stalled vehicle on the Caltrain tracks, at Rengstorff Avenue
crossing, on February 26, 2003. Mr. Scanlon read aloud the Commendation.
- Chair McLemore reported that the first meeting was held, in Menlo Park,
for the 2020 Corridor Study Process for North Santa Clara County and Southern
San Mateo County. Further correspondence will be done with VTA, the Transit
Authority and all other associated organizations to try to see how
improvements can be made between the two counties.
MTC LIAISON REPORT (SUE
LEMPERT)
Ms. Sue Lempert, Metropolitan Transportation
Commission (MTC) reported:
- Ms. Lempert expressed her appreciation for the publicity on the downtown
San Mateo Theater in conjunction with riding the train.
- MTC met in Sacramento last week to talk with legislators in regards to
transportation. Reported that Senator Speier has funding for the Baby Bullet
at a high priority. There were some concerns since it came from the
Governor's Traffic Congestion Relief Plan, where many projects were in limbo.
Also talked about lowering the threshold of the sales tax re-authorization
down from two-thirds vote. There are two bills, sponsored by Senator
Torlakson and Representative Dutra. Ms. Lempert commented that Carl Guardino
may also be lobbying to reduce the threshold, which could be helpful since it
would be coming from the business people. Ms. Lempert suggested that the
Board compose a letter encouraging passage of both bills.
REPORT OF CITIZENS ADVISORY
COMMITTEE (CAC)
Chair McLemore congratulated outgoing Chair, Mike
Rodriquez, for this work this past year. The new Chair, Gerald Graham,
reported:
- At the CAC meeting, in addition to appointing Mr. Graham, of San Mateo
County, as Chair, Bruce Balshone, of San Francisco was elected Vice Chair.
- After receiving a presentation from Michelle Bouchard and Jerry Willard,
the CAC unanimously passed the resolution recommending the new fare
structure.
- CAC has been reviewing and commenting on the Strategic Plan for the past
month. Dr. Brian Wilfley, recently appointed to CAC from Santa Clara County,
reported on behalf of the subcommittee, comprised of three members, which was
developed to assist Caltrain staff with the Vision and Guiding Principles. In
reference to a memorandum, issued to the Board members, Mr. Wilfley expressed
gratitude to the Caltrain staff working on this project. Additionally, Mr.
Wilfley reads from the memorandum, a possible vision statement.
Furthermore, in terms of performance one of the issues raised by the
committee involved wheelchair access. Especially in reference to the
Bombardier cars, wheel chair access is an exceptional condition that is
inconsistent with high performance because of the additional steps necessary
to accommodate wheel chair admittance. Therefore, the CAC stresses wheel
chair access as something that needs to be addressed in order to achieve the
high performance.
Additionally, a number of other concerns and comments, referenced in the
memorandum, are grouped together under the issue of environment or community
relations, meaning how the train interacts or relates to the people who live
around it. Under that, there are several other points including
electrification, which the CAC views as crucial and emphasized that it needs
to be pursued.
Grade Separations were also a concern. The CAC believes that grade
separations are very important both for noise and for safety. Safety should
be one of the highest strategic goals for the system. The programs that are
currently in place are very helpful in reducing the accidents with people
crossing track where they shouldn't, however, a reduction in the ease of
potential harm needs to be addressed. Fencing the right of way would help in
the reduction of opportunity for harm.
In addition, the CAC discussed automobiles and how especially in the suburban
areas, are crucial and effective feeders for the train system. Therefore,
accommodating automobiles is very valuable. Yet, the CAC recognized the
extreme costs of parking structures, such as the BART structure in Millbrae,
where the money could be spent elsewhere. As a result, the CAC recommends a
balanced approach with automobiles incorporated in the feeder system.
Partnerships between parking operators that are not within the Caltrain
systems could be explored.
Funding was also discussed and although there is not an easy solution the CAC
believes and fully supports the Strategic Plan and Vision and believe that it
will be a valuable tool in receiving funding. In addition, having the Board
pursue specific ongoing commitments of funding from the counties.
In regard to marketing, the CAC suggested soliciting input from the riders to
find out exactly what they would like. Also, through marketing, staff can
explain what the Caltrain Vision is to our riders and potential riders. The
plan that is being envisioned with the strategic planning process is a very
valuable and forward thinking construct. The further the extent that the people
in the counties know about the plan, the more likely they will be to support it.
Lastly, the CAC notes that Rapid Rail or Light Rail potentially impacts the
future of Caltrain. The CAC would like to see Caltrain aim towards continuing
the kind of service that people have grown needful of, regardless of the
divergent possibilities of the future.
Chair McLemore recognized the outstanding work that the CAC has completed and
expressed appreciation for all the comments made by Mr. Wilfley on behalf of
the CAC.
REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR
Michael J. Scanlon commended the CAC for their
efforts and time spent on the Strategic Plan. In regards to high-speed rail,
staff believes that it will provide very important services by connecting inner
city locations throughout the state. The regional service that is being
provided will be much more frequent and will continue to be important in
transit.
Mr. Scanlon presented the coveted Hard Hat to newest Board member, Mary Janney.
Ms. Janney spent February 14, 2003 riding Caltrain. Ms. Janney commends the
Caltrain staff for their impressive orientation.
Key Caltrain Performance Statistics:
- Ridership numbers for January 2003 are off 8 percent from last January,
from 29,746 to 27,372 average weekday riders. Revenue is essentially flat,
off .1 percent. On Time Performance, end to end, was the same at 95.4 percent.
Caltrain Shuttle Ridership continued at 3,396. Year to Date, seven months
into the fiscal year, ridership fell from 31,988 to 27,643, which is a 13.6
percent decline. Revenue is off 8.9 percent at $1,211,280. On Time
Performance is flat at 95 percent and Caltrain Ridership continues at 3,902.
In reference to the twelve month rolling average, ridership fell from just
under 33,000 down to the 29,000 range.
- Mr. Scanlon reported in regard to the marketing strategies that are being
pursued in order to facilitate an increase in ridership. Rails to Reels,
Testimonials, New Resident letters sent to families moving into housing
within close proximity of the corridor, Direct Mail letters sent those along
the corridor and the University Pass with Stanford. Additionally, exploring
inquiries from other businesses to develop a similar pass. Mr. Scanlon
commented that the job situation is a key component of getting ridership back.
Mr. Scanlon also notes that there are many distractions for reauthorization
of the Federal Transit Program.
- There was a fatality on February 26th. Although it has not been ruled
officially, on a preliminary basis it is thought to be a suicide.
- Two Zero Tolerance Trespass Abatement Programs. One in Mountain View, on
February 19th, and one in San Bruno. Appreciation goes to the local police
and authorities working with the Amtrak police and the San Mateo County
deputy sheriffs.
- Special Campaigns are being conducted. Partnering with San Mateo County,
Health Services Department, Youth and Family Services along with San Mateo
County Times and Daily News and other partners in Santa Clara County and San
Francisco County for outreach specifically in reference to those who are
showing symptoms of suicide.
- Monthly Safety and Security Report was distributed.
- New Timetables will become affective March 24, 2003. These timetables
will begin to get customers accustomed to the time changes that will be
effect once the Millbrae station opens. There is not an official opening date
for the BART station.
- Weekend RRX Bus schedules will also change beginning on Saturday, March
29.
- San Bruno Station will be opening on March 24th to the station's original
location. The station was relocated, under I-380, to facilitate the
construction of the BART facilities. There is future construction work at the
station in regards to a Grade Separation and ultimately there will be a final
station location subject to the final engineering and design.
- Offering supplemental service for the first soccer game, Super Classico,
to be held at Pac Bell Park on March 12th. There will be an extra train as
well as longer consists before and after the game.
- Baseball service is starting on March 28th.
- Fuel prices are not good. Caltrain had budgeted $1.07 and with the week
ending on February 27th, prices were $1.2735. Year to date budget is still
satisfactory, in spite of the raised prices over the past 5 weeks.
Vice Chair Ayerdi notes, in regards to the Pac Bell soccer game, that there is
a large population of Hispanics in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties and
questioned whether the public information campaigns will be run through the
Spanish radio and television stations to promote the extra services being
offered.
Rita Haskin, Chief Communications Officer, responded that there are not any
plans to run specific ads. Although success is a target, staff does not want to
have more riders than can be accommodated. Although, general information has
been given to the Spanish TV and radio stations.
SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING
FOR PROPOSED CHANGE IN FARE POLICY, COLLECTION AND ENFORCEMENT
Chuck Harvey, Chief Operating Officer, reported
that Staff Coordinating Council (SCC) recommends scheduling the public hearing
for April 3, 2003 to consider changes in the Caltrain fare structure and fare
media. As well as propose changes to fare collection and enforcement procedures
that will result in transitioning to a full proof of payment system. Proposed
changes would be effective in September of 2003.
A presentation on the reengineering of Caltrain was given to the Board at last
month's meeting. Included within this presentation were three major ventures.
One was the change in the fare structure as a result of a comprehensive fare
study, which has been concluded. Another was transitioning to a proof of
payment system to be more efficient with our resources, which would allow for
more service. Lastly was the Baby Bullet Express train moving into service at
the end of the year.
The proposed public hearing would be taking action on the first two, of three,
proposed items. After the Board meeting last month, staff conducted three
public meetings to discuss staff recommendations. The meetings were held in
each county. Additionally, there is an open website,
fares@caltrain.com, which is still open
for comments. 111 emails have been received and appreciation was expressed to
the public for their input. Staff is examining each inquiry and incorporating
public comments within the project to address the concerns.
Mr. Harvey commented that a comprehensive report addressing the entire proposal,
including public comment will be given to the Board prior to the public hearing.
Mr. Harvey commented that staff intentionally did not set a public hearing at
last month's meeting because staff wanted to allow plentiful time for public
input.
Francis Wong, Mountain View, reported that in 2002 the FTA commissioned a
comprehensive study of prepaid fare collection. There were two points out of
that study that peaked interest to him. The first was in the preponderance of
agencies utilizing a prepaid fare collection system. Although the system
refines fare evasion, the money collected would be given to the collocate
county and not the agency itself. Meaning that the agency does not benefit from
the revenue captured. An alternative, proposed by the Virginia Railway Express,
is that the passengers without fare are given an opportunity to pay at a later
time. Mr. Fong suggested that perhaps the conductors can distribute an invoice
to passengers who inadvertently board the train without a ticket because it
would allow Caltrain to receive the revenue.
Jeff Carter, Burlingame, expressed appreciation for all the staff working on
this project. Mr. Carter would like to see a comparison of the current system
to the proposed fares on the train or more widely circulated. Mr. Carter does
reference a sheet that he produced and handed out to the Board members and
commented that he would like to see something similar distributed so that the
customers can see what is being proposed prior to the meeting. For example,
Millbrae is going to cost $21 more per month, an increase of 35 percent, which
he feels is substantial.
Additionally, Mr. Carter references a re-issued distribution, originally from
May, which includes the suggestion of a five-mile zone structure rather than
the thirteen-mile zone being proposed.
Ken Feldstein, Foster City, expressed his concerns of the fines and fare
collections. Mr. Feldstein states that he has an invisible handicap, visual,
and that the machines (TVM) are good but those with handicaps can not
adequately operate them. Mr. Feldstein notes that the argument has been made
that this fare system is working on other transit facilities. To this Mr.
Feldstein commented that there is an underground agent at Muni Stations to
assist those with handicaps. Where stations have machines, and no agents, the
Operator will accept the additional dollar on board and issue the receipt for a
transfer. Conclusively, Mr. Feldstein states that as a visual challenged
individual, he is concerned by the fact that the conductor, not knowing that he
has a disability, will issue a fine to him. Therefore, prior to the public
meeting, Mr. Feldstein implores staff to explore these issues so that an ADA
problem can be avoided.
Motion for the public hearing to be on April 3 is adopted unanimously.
David Miller, Legal Counsel, commented that Mr. Feldstein's comments have been
discussed by staff and will be addressed on at the public hearing.
ADOPT VISION & GUIDING
PRINCIPLES DOCUMENT
Ian McAvoy, Deputy Chief of Development, reported
that the staff is asking the Board to adopt the Vision & Guiding Principles of
the upcoming 20 year Strategic Plan. Mr. McAvoy reported that staff continued
with outreach efforts and in continuation of the public comments staff also
received comments from the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA),
from the City County Association of Governments, which is the San Mateo County
Congestion Management agency, and also the Caltrain CAC.
In generality, the VTA comments were specific to looking at the language that
was within the document and gave some guidance regarding adding information to
the innovative finance concepts to outline some of the ideas that staff can use
towards innovative finances. Also, VTA advised staff to review verbiage, which
was too project specific rather than policy focused.
CCAG recommended making the vision more structured and implored the market
based approach to investment decision makers. CCAG wanted to see staff continue
in the business related approach to strategic planning and offered feedback on
the principles.
With the comments received, staff did revise the proposed Vision for Caltrain.
Mr. McAvoy reported that staff wanted to make sure that the vision addressed
the customer, being a player with local partnerships, and continuing with a
regional mobility theme.
In regards to the customer, staff want to ensure that existing and future
riders receive a world class travel experience. In order to bring people to the
system, it is necessary to have a system that they want to come to.
Local partnerships would receive benefits from Caltrain, not only attracting
riders to the Caltrain system but also acting as a catalyst for development and
opportunities to bring people closer to Caltrain.
Regarding mobility management, staff believe that Caltrain should position
itself to provide world class transportation regional service not only to
enhance mobility options on the peninsula but also to factor congestion relief.
Furthermore, Mr. McAvoy emphasized that Caltrain should be recognized as a
major regional transportation service and should continue to be thought of as a
provider, which works closely with all regional partners.
The five guiding principles outlined were widely accepted with the comments
that were received, therefore there are no recommended changes from the draft.
However, there were some changes within the Guiding & Principles document.
The adoption of the Vision & Guiding Principles would allow staff to continue
with the preparation of the draft scenarios that incorporate the alternative
service plans, the capital plans and the financial plans. The complete draft is
targeted for summer and final adoption for fall. Until then staff will continue
to outreach to the public however staff feels that the additional constructive
comments will arise after the draft scenarios are issued.
Ms. Lempert commented that that one of the key components within the strategy
should be convenience, connections and access. Further, utilizing the Transbay
terminal should be explored as an option for the commuters. Ms. Lempert
reported that San Mateo is currently in the process of talking about a major
transit oriented development at the racetrack, which would provide an
opportunity for many potential riders. Ms. Lempert remarked that she received a
letter from a gentleman, who works in Menlo Park, which illustrated the
misconcepted mindset that public transit is too cumbersome. Because of this, Ms.
Lempert suggested that Caltrain staff could mail train schedules to neighbors
around the corridor to show the time and fare schedules.
Mike Scanlon replies that staff is currently doing a market segmentation
program for the SamTrans Strategic Plan. There was a presentation to the
SamTrans Board, which illustrated the perceived timeline in comparison with
actual times depending on categories of individuals derived from market
segmentation. From the data collected, staff can now utilize different
approaches to target different markets. Mr. Scanlon offered that the
presentation could be given to the JPB Board as well.
Director Lloyd suggested that staff work with real estate agents so that when a
new house is bought, the homeowners would receive a package with the schedule
enclosed.
Director Yeager commented that in compliance with Director Lloyd's comments,
there have been a lot of development around the Diridon Station where housing
is being built. Mr. Yeager questioned whether schedules were passed out.
Mr. Scanlon responded that staff will be producing a Direct Mailing for all the
housing along the corridor. Included will be two free tickets.
Director Yeager stated that the new housing is very popular and almost a 100
percent occupied.
Mr. Scanlon reiterated that there are hopes that the direct mail will spur
people to try transit, which may increase ridership.
Richard Mlynarik, San Francisco, commended the staff working on the strategic
vision. Yet, Mr. Mylnarik expressed that the revisions to the document are
detrimental. Specifically in regards to the section entitled, "To satisfy and
build ridership," and coordinating transit. Mr. Mlynarik noted that he realizes
the need for a balanced approach but market realities need to be addressed as
well.
Vaughn Wolffe, RailPac, also targeted the changes made to the section entitled,
"To satisfy and build ridership," and feels that the changes within bullet one
are unnecessary. Additionally, Mr. Wolffe feels further changes within the
document, especially referring to the speed and travel time of the train,
building and expansions of stations should be incorporated back into the
document. Additionally, in reference to the page 11, since this is a Caltrain
document, Mr. Wolffe feels that although not alphabetical, Caltrain should be
listed first, as it was in the previous version of the document.
Norman Rolfe, San Francisco, reiterated what had been stated. Again, in
reference to the third bullet under the "To satisfy and build ridership"
section, Mr. Rolfe feels that the coordinating service with connecting transit
operators should be restored. Additionally, he concurred with the comments made
by Mr. Wolffe, in regards to restoring the verbiage from bullet one, within the
same section. In reference to the third, fourth and fifth bullets, on page 11,
Mr. Rolfe feels the stuck out verbiage communicates more clearly when compared
to the new version. Additionally Mr. Rolfe questioned the emphasis on
automobiles and parking throughout the revised document.
Jeff Carter, Burlingame, echoed the comments of the previous speakers. The
speed, increase and frequency of the service need to be outlined. Concurred
with what Mr. Scanlon pointed out, the perceptions of people are often skewed
to a longer waiting time than how long it actually takes. Also Mr. Carter
restated that ensurance of low fares for improved services needs to be
emphasized because high fares are a great deterrence for ridership.
Vice Chair Ayerdi also raised concern in regards to the changes that were made
throughout the document, specifically in regards to speed of the service,
frequency, coordination with transit providers and facilitating intermodal
transfers.
Mr. McAvoy responded in general to all the comments made. He reported that
staff have been trying to balance all of the comments that have come in,
inclusive of the member agencies, the public and third party interests. The
revised draft captured, in essence, the general comments of all involved in the
process. Some of the specifics were taken out yet the principles themselves
remain the same and they give a general policy guide to what Caltrain is moving
towards in the future.
Vice Chair Ayerdi questioned whether staff was asked to specifically remove
language where coordination between service providers was listed.
Mr. McAvoy responded by stating that staff received mark ups from different
organizations that generally questioned the specificity of issues, though maybe
should be addressed in the next section of the plan, which is when the service,
capital and financial developments of the plan will be addressed.
Director Valerio reiterated that what is being presented are guiding principles
in a very broad stroke. The next step of the Strategic Plan will go into
greater specificity and detail of how accomplishment of these broad goals will
be met. During the second step, it would be appropriate to go into certain
projects, programs and developments that will facilitate the Strategic Plan.
Mr. McAvoy concurred by saying that the draft was aimed to provide the flavor
of the specifics without actually associating anything to the principles
themselves, which is not to say that the previously listed specifics will not
be addressed at a later time.
Director Lloyd also agreed with the speakers in that the language should
reflect more specificity. In order to have a world class system, there will
need to be seamless connections and ensure that the public's perceptions are
taken into consideration.
Sue Lempert suggested that since the Board has the final authority maybe it
would be best for the each member to take time to review the documentation and
perhaps not act today.
Mike Scanlon commented that since the original draft came out numerous agencies
and individuals gave comments and feedback. Mr. Scanlon acknowledged that some
of the revisions have changed the meaning, specifically in regards to cars and
parking in substitution of bicycle and pedestrian access, of the document.
Therefore, Mr. Scanlon suggested moving this item over to the next meeting so
that staff can have the opportunity to produce a re-draft. In the meantime, Mr.
Scanlon advised that staff can move forward with the next phase of the
Strategic Plan.
Chair McLemore also concurred with the speaker's comments in reference to
reduction of travel time and increasing frequency and that some language should
be reinstated.
Motion to continue the item is adopted unanimously.
AUTHORIZATION OF CHANGE
ORDER TO THE NORTH CTX CONTRACT FOR PHASE I OF BAYSHORE STATION CONSTRUCTION
Liz Wiecha, Director of Capital Project
Management, requested the authorization to execute a change order to the North
CTX contract in the amount of $2,047,964 for the first phase of construction of
the new Bayshore Station. The change order compensation amounts to a 3.2
percent increase to the North CTX contract amount of $64.45 million. The Phase
I change order will ensure that the construction of the Bayshore Station can
proceed immediately and permanent platforms can be installed along with passing
track construction. A request for authorization to proceed with the remaining
work, which will consist of construction of a pedestrian overpass, stairwells
and elevator structures as well as the installation of the two elevators being
procured under Phase I, will be sought at a future meeting.
Over the past 10 months, staff have been working with various stakeholders,
including representatives from local communities, to complete the design of the
new station. This process is coming to a successful conclusion, and are
currently finalizing the design details such as, color selection for the roof
and structural steel elements on the overpass as well as the stairwell and
elevator structures. The change order for Phase II will incorporate the
details of revised design.
Chair McLemore emphasized that although the amendment is for $2 million, it
will only be a 3.2 percent increase to the overall contract.
Director Burns questioned what elements are within the change order in regards
to the overpass design and construction.
Ms. Wiecha responded that the design work is being done under a separate
contract with consulting engineers, therefore the design work is not apart of
the change order. The change order will allow acceleration of certain
components, such as platforms and foundations, that need to proceed right now
in order to continue construction of the passing tracks, as well as the station.
Structural elements, such as the pedestrian overpass and the stairwell and
elevator structures, will be at an upcoming meeting to request authorization to
complete.
Director Valerio questioned whether this change order would require any
additional capital contribution.
Ms. Wiecha clarifies that this change order would be completed utilizing
current capital contributions. The funding is coming from state Baby Bullet
funding, which is 100 percent state funded and never required local capital
contributions.
Mr. Scanlon acknowledged that the change order is within his threshold however,
he wanted to bring it to the Board because the subsequent steps of the project
will need Board authorization. Additionally, Mr. Scanlon commends Ms. Wiecha,
Jim Gallagher and staff for working with the community particularly in
Visitacion Valley. Previously there were some troubles in regards to the design
but staff have since been able to reach a consensus. By issuing the change
order, the project will remain on schedule and the platforms can be constructed
so that when the Baby Bullet service initiates in December, the Baby Bullet
will be able to service that station.
Mr. Wolffe questioned that the change order references 700 foot platforms
whereas ten cars would be 850 feet, meaning the station would not be able to
accommodate a ten car train. In respect to the glass enclosures, Mr. Wolffe
testified that the glass elevator at the Emeryville Station was often out of
service for maintenance therefore, he questioned the use of the glass at the
Bayshore Station.
Director Ayerdi also questioned the length of the platforms.
Mr. Wiecha responded that the track alignment is such that it will allow for
future extension of the platforms, if the need arises. The 700 foot platforms
are Caltrain's current upgraded standard. In respect to the glass enclosures,
there were a number of discussions, which were weighed in the selection of the
materials. Primarily safety and security outweighed maintenance. The current
plan is to use an anti-etching film on the glass, which has been successful by
Muni on the wind screens along the Embarcadero Station. Staff did not want to
have an enclosed structure because of safety, security and visibility matters.
Further, the glass will be limited to the elevator and the stairwell will be in
an open mesh type of enclosure.
The Board, by roll call, unanimously approved authorization of the change order.
REPORT OF LEGAL COUNSEL
Attorney David Miller reported that the Board
approved the sale agreement it to the City of San Mateo for the purchase of
1.242 sq.ft. at the Hillsdale Caltrain Station for an amount of $76,892.
CORRESPONDENCE
Previously distributed.
DATE/TIME OF NEXT MEETING: Thursday, April 3, 2003,
10 a.m. at SamTrans Administrative Building, 1250 San Carlos Avenue, San Carlos,
CA 94070
ADJOURNED: 12:10 a.m.
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