2019_11-26_PWETCpacket - Laserfiche WebLink

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their business in or on the shelter, Mr. Williams reported the business took on some of the maintenance responsibilities. Mr. Williams noted that Metro Transit supervisors drove routes to monitor stops and shelters; assuring the PWETC that Metro Transit took customer feedback seriously and used that as a tool to track and grade their performance. However, with limited personnel available, Mr. Williams noted that snow removal frequently trumped all else, with safety being their first concern and consideration. Specific to citing bus stops, or determining whether or not a stop or shelter is placed, Member Lenz asked how much influence Metro Transit had in applying to counties or cities to mitigate lacking sidewalks. Mr. Williams responded that, in cases where shelters are indicated, and considering Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and access issues, if an alternative site is close and would provide better access (e.g. mid -block versus at an intersection), that would be considered. As to Metro Transit exerting pressure on Ramsey County, Mr. Williams noted that they could only make requests, and that everyone had their respective budgets and competing interests for those available funds. Regarding bus stop and shelter planning, Chair Cihacek asked to what extent Metro Transit took into consideration area amenities (e.g. access) to save maintenance costs. Mr. Lamb responded that for the last 1.5 years, Metro Transit's planning had been run by city and county staff to make sure adequate sidewalk and pedestrian ramps were available at that location. If stops are proposed mid -block, Mr. Lamb noted the necessity of a curb cut and pedestrian ramp and crosswalk also being available. In terms of bus stops specifically, Mr. Lamb advised that he wasn't as involved with those locations, admitting he had observed a fair number without adequate area and/or sidewalks. However, since spacing didn't require as much of an investment from Metro Transit, Mr. Lamb opined that more flexibility may be available and considered in deploying ramps or placing stops in areas indicating high handicapped or wheeled device access was needed. Mr. Lamb advised that additional pedestrian improvements would be considered there through a cement block at the stop or an ADA ramp for boarding purposes to address accessibility for boarders. Specific to bus routes 4227 and 4229, across County Road C and at Victoria Street, Member Lenz noted the inability to cross or access that area to board if using a wheelchair. Page 6 of 17