Resolution authorizing requests for proposals for Transit Automated Passenger Counter.

Adoption of the attached resolution.

The fare box provides ridership data for the entire route over time but not at each stop.  As the Transit Development Plan is implemented, there is a lack of passenger flow analytics to optimize routes, manage congestion, and enhance the customer’s experience.  Bus stop improvements provide ADA accessibility to existing and future stops, and the amenities of benches and shelters lack the data to support future investment. Specific stop usage supports future routing and schedule adjustments based upon customer demand.

Supports Goal 2 (Sustainable Infrastructure) of the Strategic Plan

• Strategic city investments in neighborhood enhancements
• Better, safer multi-modal opportunities for all users.

An automated passenger counter works by installing a people counter sensor over each door counting the number of passengers entering and exiting the bus at each stop along the fixed route system. The data is date and time stamped and geolocated.

The Capital Improvement Project and 2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) includes the project (TRF-0028-25F) at a total project cost of $350,000 with $70,000 as a local share.

The mobility buses dedicated to providing paratransit service are not included in the purchase.
 
This project was included in the Mankato Transit System Technology Assessment.

Tentative timeline:

• Release Request for Quotes – March 11
• Council Action to select vendor – April 28
• Project complete – September 8