HomeMy WebLinkAboutRESPONSE - RFP - P1145 PARATRANSIT SERVICES (2)lit) VEOLIA
TRANSPORTAMN
Response to the
City of Fort Collins
Request for Proposal #P1145
For Management and Operation
of the City of Fort Collins' Paratransit Services
Proposed by:
Veolia Transportation On Demand
and its subsidiary '
Shamrock Taxi of Fort Collins, Inc.
Regional Office
Brad Whittle
Senior Vice -President
Veolia Transportation on Demand
7500 E 41" Avenue
Denver, CO 80216
Office: (303) 316-3850
Mobile: (720) 940-3689
Brad. Whittle(&veoliatransportation.com
Fort Collins Office
Ross Alexander
Area General Manager
Shamrock Taxi of Fort Collins, Inc.
4414 E. Harmony Road, Suite 200
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Office : (970) 225-4800
Mobile : (303) 324-5426
Ross.Alexander(aOveoliatransportation.com
October 15, 2008
QVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
arises, Christopher and/or Janet are just a phone call and short airline flight
away.
Corporate Information
Founded in 1853, our parent company, Veolia Environnement, is a $45 billion
environmental services company with a worldwide presence. Veolia
Environnement provides four core services to governments, municipalities, and
public agencies. These include; the delivery and treatment of water, energy
generation, waste management, and the provision of all forms of public
transportation. In North America, Veolia Transportation was borne through the
joining of two companies—Connex and ATC. Connex was founded in 1909 as
Yellow Transportation. ATC was founded in 1935. This corporate history
provides Veolia with approximately 100 years of experience in North America
providing all modes of publicly funded transportation service.
Veolia's Fort Collins Connection - In September 2008, Colorado Cab Company,
LLC purchased Shamrock Taxi of Fort Collins, Inc, a Dial -A -Ride (DAR) provider
since 2004. This acquisition not only allows the City to partner with a local
company with over 22 years of local experience and connections, it also affords
the City the opportunity to receive service on the DAR project from a company
which is recognized internationally as one of the premier service providers in the
transportation industry.
Because of our local facility, knowledgeable management, and local connections,
we are well suited to provide a virtually seamless start-up for this contract on
January 1. Our current status as the City's DAR service provider eliminates the
learning curve and error potential often associated with contract start-up
situations.
Project References
Offered below are profiles of five projects which we believe demonstrate what
Veolia will bring to the City, the DAR program and its riders.
Access Paratransit
King County Metro - Seattle, WA
Although this program is much larger than the DAR service, our role in Seattle is
quite similar to our role in Fort Collins. Trips are scheduled by a separate firm
under contract to King County. We operate our assigned service areas based on
contract requirements. Veolia began providing service with 39 vehicles and a
I
TRANSPORTATION
staff of 45 drivers. Over time, and due to our outstanding performance, our
contract has grown. Today, we are the largest carrier in the system, operating
125 client -owned vehicles from two facilities, with a staff of more than 285
employees, including 167 drivers. We have recently been assigned 70% of the
Metro Access service, which will increase our fleet to approximately 210
vehicles. Despite this tremendous growth, we have maintained, and in fact
improved, the quality and reliability of our service. Here are a few of our most
notable accomplishments in Seattle.
✓ Reliability - During the most recently completed fiscal year, we operated
every single run assigned to us by the call center and continually
exceeded the quota for our monthly delivery services.
✓ Safety Performance - Veolia has demonstrated a trend of continuous
improvement in the area of safety. King County rates us as its safest
operator. We are proud of the fact that during 2007 we experienced an
accident rate of only .51 preventable accidents per 100,000 miles.
✓ Customer Service - Veolia has used its world -class customer service
training programs to create a culture of service. Despite growing demand
and our increasing share of the Access Paratransit service, we receive less
than 1.5 complaints per 1,000 riders transported.
Client Information
King County Metro Department of
Transportation
Exchange Building, 8th Floor
821 Second Avenue
Seattle WA, 98104-1598
Contact: Mr. Robert Sahm
Metro Accessible Services Supervisor
Phone: (206) 263-4498
Cell: (206) 510-9653
E-Mail: bob.sahm@metrokc.gov
Contract Dates: 2001- Present
DART Paratransit
Dallas Area Rapid Transit District - Dallas, TX
Veolia has provided ADA complementary Paratransit services for DART since.
January 2000. The DART Board of Directors has recommended us for an
additional five-year contract. Veolia's role on the DART project is similar to our
proposed role on the DAR project. We are provided vehicle schedules, which are
prepared by the client, and we perform the trips based on the terms of -our
10
VECUA
TRANSPORTATION
contract. In 2007, we operated more than ten million miles and provided more
than 770,000 passenger trips on a fleet of 209 vehicles. We are extremely proud
of our performance on DART's paratransit program. Highlights include:
✓ Ridership Growth - Veolia helped DART achieve a 14% increase in service.
demand over the most recent two years. We did so while maintaining
service quality and actually increasing system productivity.
✓ Acquisition of Vehicles - At the end of 2004, Veolia anticipated that
increasing demand would swamp DART's available fleet resources. ' In
response, we immediately procured 25 sedans to supplement the DART
fleet and allow service growth without compromising service quality. In
2007, without an interruption in service, Veolia replaced the old fleet of
187 vehicles with 209 new client owned vans.
✓ Continuous Improvement through Training - Veolia involves the Dallas
Community Advocacy group in providing the sensitivity component of our
driver -training program. We believe that this approach has contributed to
positive customer relations. Veolia is the first contractor in DART history
to receive 25% more commendations than complaints.
Client Information
Dallas Area Rapid Transit
101 Peak Street
Dallas, Texas 75202
Contact: Mr. Donnie Thompson, Assistant VP
Paratransit
Phone: (214) 828-6628
Fax: (214) 828-6642 E-Mail
dthompson@dart.org
Contract dates : 2000 - present
SSha re -a -I are
Kansan CCuty/ Area Transp9oo taUon Authoriity/ — Kansas CCKy/, ill®
Kansas City Transportation Group (KCTG) began providing services for the SAF
program in 1995. During that time, KCTG has helped transform the service
delivery approach to meet the requirements of the ADA as well as the evolving
expectations of the KCATA and the SAF riders. In July 2007 KCTG was acquired
by Veolia Transportation, since that time, KCTG has made a number of strides to
help make the SAF service a showpiece for the KCATA and the SAF riders. Here
is a summary of some of KCTG recent program successes:
11
� s
y
TRANSPORTATION
✓ Enhanced Driver Training - We developed and delivered enhanced driver
training in the areas of ADA requirements, SAF policies and procedures
and passenger assistance techniques. This training is helping to ensure
that customers receive service that is professional, courteous and
consistent.
✓ Overall Customer Satisfaction - In two recent surveys of SAF riders,
conducted by an independent contractor to the KCATA, we received very
positive feedback from our customers regarding the cleanliness of
vehicles, the professionalism of our drivers and overall service quality.
✓ A Trend of Continuous Improvement - During the past year, our
performance in the areas of on -time performance and quality assessment
(measured by the KCATA's Quality Control Technician) have demonstrated
continuous improvement.
Client Information
Kansas City Area Transportation Authority
1200 East 18th Street
Kansas City, MO 64108
Contact : Ms. Sharon Bryant, Manager of
ADA and Customer Service
Phone : (816) 346-0809
E-Mail : sybrant@Kcata.org
Contract Dates: 1995- Present
East Valley Dial -A -Ride
Valley Metro/Regional Public Transit Authority - Mesa, AZ
Veolia has been operating the RPTA's East Valley Dial -A -Ride (EVDAR) program
(which serves the cities of; Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Tempe and
eastern portions of Phoenix) since March 2006. Under the terms of this contract,
which runs through 2012, Veolia accepts reservations, schedules service and
operates a fleet of 63 client -owned vehicles, performing approximately 850 ADA
trips per day. We also provide additional non-ADA transportation directly, and
through a subcontracted taxi provider, for the RPTA and several of the cities in
the EVDAR service area. Veolia's service on the EVDAR project demonstrates not
only our attention to quality, but also the strength of our corporate support and
our ability to conduct an effective start-up under very difficult circumstances.
Here are some highlights of the EVDAR service.
✓ Rapid Start -Up - When the prior contractor was failing to meet the client's
expectations, the RPTA contacted Veolia and asked us to take over the
12
QVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
program within seven days. Veolia immediately assembled a corporate
start-up team in Mesa. This team was responsible for identifying and
hiring managerial staff, hiring and screening the prior contractor's drivers,
mechanics and other support staff, inspecting and transitioning the
vehicle fleet and implementing day-to-day operating procedures. The
team worked around the clock, and the start-up occurred smoothly and
on time. We are extremely proud of this accomplishment.
✓ Service Quality - Veolia prides itself on driver training, and East Valley
Dial -A -Ride is no exception. In addition to our companywide Operator
Development Training, EVDAR drivers receive additional ADA passenger
awareness training from Life, Inc., a local disability community
organization. This training includes people with disabilities, as well as
training on lift deployment and mobility device securement. Our emphasis
on driver training has reduced complaints to fewer than two per 1,000
riders transported.
✓ On -Time Performance - Although our East Valley service area is
characterized by heavy traffic, peak hour congestion and suburban
sprawl, we consistently operate at between 93% and 96% on time.
✓ System Safety - One of the most notable characteristics of our East
Valley Dial -A -Ride system is its low accident frequency. Due to our
emphasis on safety and driver training, we enjoy an enviable safety
record of fewer than 0.75 total accidents per 100,000 miles.
Client Information
Valley Metro/RPTA
302 North First Avenue, Suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
Contact: Mr. Jim Wright, Operations Project
Manager
Phone: (480) 924-6653, extension 247
Email: jwright@valleymetro.org
Contract dates: 2006 -present
Access Paratransit
Orange County Transit Authority - Orange, CA
In June 2006 Veolia began operating ADA paratransit services under a contract
with the Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA). Veolia's staff of 515 drivers
and 159 support personnel are responsible for all aspects of service delivery
including call taking, trip scheduling and vehicle operations. Veolia performs
approximately 4,600 trips per weekday, using a fleet of 265 client -owned
13
WVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
vehicles. Veolia brokers an additional 475 trips per average weekday to two
subcontracted taxi providers.
Although the Orange County start-up was challenging, Veolia has demonstrated
a strong commitment to its OCTA client and to the local disability community.
Today, the OCTA paratransit service runs more efficiently, and enjoys strong
support from the client and local community. Here are a few of our
achievements to date:
✓ On -Time Performance Despite the legendary traffic conditions in
Southern California, Veolia has continuously improved its on -time
performance. Currently, on -time performance stands at 94%.
✓ Customer Service and Community Support - Early on, Veolia recognized
the need to build strong relationships with customers and with
organizations whose clients use the service each day. Staff implemented a
process of holding frequent meetings with social service agencies and
other stakeholders to solicit input and determine what is working and
what needs improvement. Through this ongoing collaboration complaints
have fallen sharply. For the most recent month, complaints dropped to
2.4 per 1,000 riders transported.
Client Information
Orange County Transit Authority
550 S. Main Street, PO Box 14184
Orange, California 92863-1584
Contact: Ms. Erin Rogers, Contract Manager
Phone: (714) 560-5367
E-Mail: erogers@octa.nett
Contract dates: 2006 -present
14
Q VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
f1TEUNK 1(,F11ENT TE��1
Veoiia Contacts for the C� ky/ of Fort CoMns Paratransit Servke
Proposal - Following are the names and contact information for individuals
authorized to represent Veolia in connection with this proposal.
Mr. Brad Whittle, Senior Vice- President/ Reg ional Vice -President
Veolia Transportation On Demand
7500 E. 41s` Avenue
Denver, CO 80216
Office: (303) 316-3850
Mobile: (720) 940-3689
Email: Brad.Whittle@veoliatransportation.com
Mr. Doss Alexander, Area General Manager
Shamrock Taxi of Fort Collins, Inc.
4414 E. Harmony Rd, Ste 200
Office : (970) 225-4800
Mobile : (303) 324-5426
Email : Ross.Alexandergveoliatransportation.com
Corporate Oversight and Support
When it comes to corporate oversight and . support, Veolia sets a very high
standard which leads the industry. We are extremely proud of the professional
experience and technical expertise which our national and regional subject
experts bring to every project, and we know that the City will agree. Veolia's
local project management team will receive oversight from our Regional Vice
President and technical support and guidance from a host of experts in the areas
of human resource management, safety and training, maintenance and fleet
management, environmental compliance, Trapeze support and ADA technical
support. The balance of this section of our proposal summarizes the level of
corporate support which the DAR project will receive and introduces the people
who will provide this support.
Corporate Oversight
[Brad Whittle, Senior Vice- President/ Reg ional Vice President
The critical link between any Veolia project and the deep corporate resources of
Veolia is the Project's Vice -President. Brad will be the Vice -President to which
the DAR project reports. Brad's role will be to ensure that Veolia resources are
made available whenever needed and to work with the local team to deliver our
services as proposed. Brad has eight years of executive -level experience in the
transportation industry —all with Veolia and Veolia-owned companies. Brad
15
WVEOUA
TRANSPORTATION
the Colorado Cab company as President in 2000, was promoted to Vice -
President for Veolia in 2004 and to Senior Vice -President in 2007. He oversees
taxi, paratransit and shuttle operations for Veolia in Colorado and the Kansas
City area. Prior to joining Veolia, Brad had seven years of professional
experience as a CFO and CPA, so his understanding of budgets and of the
financial elements of a project is first-rate. Brad will make sure that the local
team has the necessary resources to provide outstanding service that is
satisfying to both the passengers and the City.
Ross A�exander, Area Genera� Manager
Veolia's Fort Collins' General Manager, Ross Alexander, will be responsible for
oversight and support of the DAR project team. He will be responsible for
assisting the Project Manager to ensure contractual compliance and client
satisfaction. Ross will oversee the maintenance and administrative functions
which will support, but not report directly to, the DAR Project Manager. Ross
has more than 12 years of experience in the transportation industry with more
than 9 years of experience as the General Manager of Denver Yellow Cab and
Mobility Plus, Denver Yellow Cab's wheelchair accessible fleet. He will be a
strong management asset for the local DAR team, and he will help to ensure
that any required Veolia resources are available whenever needed.
Human Resource Management
Janet c arretson, Area Manager, Human Resources
Janet Garretson will be responsible for providing human resource management
support for the Fort Collins project. She brings more than seventeen years of
human resource management to the DAR project, and her areas of expertise
include employee recruitment, driver applicant screening, administration of drug
testing programs, benefits administration, evaluation and disciplinary processes.
Janet will be a key component during Veolia's transition and start-up of DAR,
and she will be on site throughout most of the start-up period. Janet is
committed to an environment of a fair an equitable setting through the creation
of a fair and equitable employment setting.
Vehic0e Maintenance and Neet Management
(Paug fKa.usneir, Area Meet Maintenance Manager
We recognize that the delivery of high -quality routine maintenance minimizes
road calls, service interruptions and the need for more frequent and more costly
heavy maintenance. For this reason, we are excited to introduce our Area Fleet
Maintenance Manager, Paul Kusner. Paul's maintenance management career in
public transportation spans almost 15 years and he is Master ASE Certified. Paul
oversees vehicle maintenance and fleet management for Veolia in Colorado for
the cities of Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins. In this capacity, he is responsible
for working with local maintenance personnel to ensure compliance with legal,
contractual and corporate vehicle maintenance and servicing requirements.
GVEOUA
TRANSPORTATION
Prior to joining VTOD as Area Fleet Maintenance Manager Paul supervised
Veolia's Denver RTD fleet maintenance for 4 years. In his role as Area Fleet
Maintenance Manager, Paul will visit the Fort Collins location at least monthly,
and more often as necessary, to monitor maintenance performance, to conduct
maintenance inspections and quality control audits.
Corporate Support
Trapeze Management
Janet Davis, VP of Business Hmp rovem ent and
Christopher Bryan, Trapeze Support Specialist
Overseeing Veolia's support of the Trapeze Pass software will be Ms. Janet Davis
and Mr. Christopher Bryan. Janet joined Veolia in October of 2007, as our Vice -
President of Business Improvement, and she and her team are responsible for
analyzing and improving the performance of all operational processes and
software applications. This responsibility includes the provision of support to
those locations which use scheduling and dispatch software programs such as
Trapeze Pass. Janet has more than 27 years of experience in the public transit
industry, including twelve years with Trapeze Group, where she provided
consulting to more than 300 transit agencies and other customers across North
America and throughout the world in the use of Trapeze products for improving
service productivity and quality.
Christopher Bryan reports to Janet and will be available for any questions and
consulting of the Fort Collins location. Prior to joining Veolia in 2007,
Christopher worked for MV Transportation as its Director of Technology. Prior to
joining MV, Christopher worked for the Trapeze Software Group for nine years,
where he oversaw development of several PASS products, including Trapeze
PASS, PASS MON, PASS IVR, PASS WEB, and PASS CERT. He has been involved
in more than 100 implementations of the Trapeze line of products. Chris is also
familiar with the integration and use of Trapeze and MDC technology and will be
a valuable asset as Fort Collins implements and optimizes its planned MDC
technology. Janet and Chris will provide on -call support when questions or
problems arise. This optimization will then enable us to develop standardized
documentation and training, which will support our long term commitment to
continuous improvement.
Environmental Compliance
Stove Kotel, Hational Director, Environmental Services
Steve is an expert in the areas of environmental compliance, sustainable
development, Superfund remediation, policy development, property
assessment/startup, and employee training. He is a certified environmental
property assessor. His responsibilities include environmental interpretation,
technical research, emergency response, compliance, sustainable development,
17
VEDUA
TRANSPORTATION
property investigation/auditing, and policy & training development. Steve will
provide on -call support when questions or problems arise.
Environmental] Management
Craig Billderback, Environmental Management SSp eciaiist
Based in Washington State, Craig assists local management personnel in the
areas of environmental management and Veolia's corporate sustainability
programs. He provides information, auditing services, training,
communications, planning, and general oversight in areas of environmental
compliance, sustainable development, and associated research. Craig will visit
the Fort Collins facility on an as -needed basis to conduct physical inspections of
facilities and local adherence to environmental management requirements. He
will also examine documentation, review policies and procedures and assist with
training and technical support. Prior to taking on his role within Veolia's
environmental management program, Craig served as a local Maintenance
Director for our paratransit operation in King County, Washington, so he is
extremely familiar with 'our maintenance practices and procedures. Craig holds
a MBA degree, and he has a total of 20 years of professional maintenance and
environmental management experience, so with Craig involved, the City can rest
assured that the DAR program's vehicles, facilities and other assets will be
maintained in a legally compliant; safe and environmentally responsible manner.
ADA Logap Support
John Hoeft, Generap cCou. nsell
John Hoeft is Veolia's in-house legal expert on the Americans with Disabilities
Act. In his role as General Counsel, John provides guidance to Veolia locations
regarding all aspects of ADA compliance. In addition to his work for Veolia, John
is an active participant in the APTA Legal Affairs Committee and has worked on
matters of accessibility and ADA compliance since well before the ADA was
passed. He was instrumental in drafting APTA responses to proposed ADA rules,
and he served on a number of committees which helped to craft the ADA
regulatory language. John provides training to Veolia managers regarding new
ADA technical guidance, legal opinions and proposed regulatory changes.
ADA Teclh vicap Support
Ron Brooks, Disalbillity Community Liaison
Ron Brooks has more than fifteen years of.experience in the accessible transit
services industry. Ron's official role within Veolia is as a Business Development
Manager, but he is one of our corporate subject area experts in accessible
transit and ADA paratransit services. He routinely provides technical assistance,
personnel training and internal consulting to Veolia projects across the country
in the areas of service delivery to passengers with disabilities, paratransit
eligibility certification, call center management and service quality. He currently
serves as a member of the National Science Foundation's Transportation
W.
C)VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Table of Contents
Letterof Transmittal........................................................................... 2
Experienceand Qualifications.............................................................. 5
ManagementTeam.............................................................................. 15
FinancialStability................................................................................ 21
ProposedFacility................................................................................. 22
FleetManagement............................................................................... 23
Automated System & Provision of Trips ............................................... 28
OperatingPlan and Procedures........................................................... 29
Exceptions& Omissions....................................................................... 38
CostProposal....................................................:................................. 39
APPENDICES........................................................................................ 41
TRANSPORTATION
Research Board's Paratransit Committee, APTA's Access Committee and on a
number of other industry committees working on accessible transit issues. Ron
will be available to the Fort Collins team to check in with our staff and the
disability community in order to ensure that our services are not only meeting
the contractual requirements, but the expectations of our riders as well. Ron
will provide any needed technical support and guidance to the project staff in
the areas of ADA operating policies and procedures, customer service and
satisfaction and in the area of disability community relationship management.
Safety and Training
Don Henry, Hationall Director, Safety
Don is the National Director of Safety for Veolia's VTOD business unit. He is
based in Scottsdale, Arizona. Don will be responsible for working with the local
team and particularly with the Safety and Training Manager to implement
various corporate initiatives such as, the Operator Development Program (ODP)
and Veolia's other safety and training programs. Don will also assist with root
cause analysis of accidents and workplace injuries, and will communicate safety -
related lessons learned between the Fort Collins team and the rest of the
company so that all may benefit. Don has 20 years of professional experience in
the transit began his career as a bus operator and has served in virtually every
level of management and supervision between the front line and the corporate
office. This breadth of experience will make it possible for him to appreciate the
challenges of operating a vehicle in revenue service and the ability to provide
assistance which is practical and helpful. Don will make sure that all operator
training meets the City's and Veolia's rigorous standards.
On -Site (Project Team
(Project Manager, Davie Mullllin
Dave Mullin brings both paratransit expertise and a commitment to the
Community. Dave has served in the capacity of Project Manager for DAR over
the past year. He has a proven record of greatly improving the project's on -
time percentage, timely reporting, and maintaining high customer service
standards. Dave is CTAA certified as a Passenger Service and Safety (PASS)
trainer. He received a certificate of completion for attending the National Safety
Council Defensive Driving course. His talent for understanding, mentoring and
motivating people will prove to be a continued asset to DAR and the City. Dave
will continue to meet with the City on a regular basis to maintain desired
expectations. Dave will continue to promote teamwork and training that
encourages focus on customer needs.
19
VEOLIA
Oar -Site Project Team
Safety Manager, Daniel Safarcyk
Daniel Safarcyk is our Safety Manager in the local Fort Collins office. Dan brings
a wealth of knowledge that has been instrumental in improving our accident
investigation and reporting procedures in Fort Collins. Dan has 14 years of
experience in the insurance industry that includes accident investigation,
physical damage inspection, and liability investigation. Dan has worked hard to
improve the safety of our employees and customers at every level. With
assistance Dan will manage local training, making sure it is performed in
accordance with Veolia's highest standards, and that all training is documented
and kept up to date. Dan will perform accident investigations in order to identify
areas for training improvement, and improve driving practices.
City of Fort Collins
Dial -A -Ride
Veolia Transportation
On Demand
Senior Vice -President
Brad Whittle
Area General
Manager
Ross Alexander
Veolia Corporate Support
Technology — Janet Davis,
Christopher Bryan
ADA Legal Expertise — John Hoeft
Community Liaison — Ron Brooks
Environmental Compliance — Steve Kotel
Craig Bilderback
National Safety Director — Don Henry
Area Dial -A -Ride Safety Manager Area
Fleet Maintenance Project Manager Daniel Safarcyk Human Resources
Manager Dave Mullin Janet Garretson
Paul Kusner
VEOLIA SUPPORT STRUCTURE
20
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Financial Stability
Veolia Transportation Services Inc. will fund all operating capital and start-up
expense through our parent company Veolia Environnement. Veolia
Environnement is the world's leading environmental services company with
annual revenues of $45 billion. As a publicly traded company, Veolia's financial
statements are a matter of public record. Dunn and Bradstreet Number: 78-
438-0573.
A. Banking and Auditing References
Our banking and auditing references are as follows:
Veolia banks exclusively with Bank Veolia employs the auditing
of America. services of :
Contact:
Patricia Nevin, Officer and Senior
Advisor
Global Client Services
231 South LaSalle Street
Chicago, IL 60604
Telephone: 312-828-3865
Contact:
David J. Marquardt
Ernst & Young LLP
Sears Tower
233 South Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
21
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Proposed Facility
Description of Operating Facility
Veolia Transportation on Demand will operate DAR services from our Fort Collins
facility, located at 4414 E. Harmony Rd #200. We consider our facility to be a
strong asset to our proposal for the following reasons:
✓ DAR service currently operates out of the above location eliminating the
need for locating and acquiring adequate accommodations.
✓ The facility features a maintenance shop, which includes all required
diagnostic equipment and tools.
✓ The facility is centrally located in the Fort Collins community, with
excellent access to the street network, minimizing deadhead time and
keeping costs low for the project.
22
hA. _ :
TRANSPORTATION
Fleet Management
A. Proposed Vehicle Fleet
One of the most important elements of our proposal, and perhaps the single -
most important element to the people who use the DAR service every day, is our
vehicle fleet. To the riders, our choice is important because it determines the
look, feel and comfort of the service. To the City, our selection is important
because it impacts the appearance, operational flexibility and cost of the
program.
Veolia recognizes that the City wants the fleet to be accessible and comfortable
for riders, allow for program growth, support operational and scheduling
flexibility, and promote the cost effectiveness and reputation of the DAR
program. Recognizing these values Veolia will replace 100% of the
existing fleet with well maintained late model sedans and wheel
chair accessible mini -vans within 90 days of the program award
date.
At least 10 vehicles will be outfitted with Trapeze interfaced MDC's. Additional
MDC's may be purchased from the City to facilitate project growth when
necessary.
B. Vehicle Maintenance Program
Veolia recognizes timely and thorough vehicle maintenance is a high priority for
great service. This section of our proposal discusses Veolia's approach for
maintaining the DAR fleet in accordance with the City's standards.
In addition to the materials presented below Veolia has a Icorporate Veolia
Maintenance Plan which will be customized by our maintenance team, based on
the DAR fleet and the requirements of the RFP. (A copy of our standard
corporate maintenance manual is included within the proposal appendices.)
C. Veolia Maintenance Plan
The focus of the Veolia Maintenance Plan is to proactively support daily
operations. The Veolia maintenance plan accomplishes this by committing the
majority of effort to a Preventative Maintenance (PM) Program that provides the
necessary inspection processes to inspect, evaluate and repair each vehicle prior
to component or system failure. The Veolia maintenance goal is to provide
clean, safe, dependable and comfortable vehicles in sufficient quantity to meet
23
i
FOis
TRANSPORTATION
on -time service requirements without
maintenance -caused disruptions. We have every
vehicle inspected thoroughly at regular intervals.
The condition of components and systems are
evaluated against pass/fail criteria and repairs are
made prior to a return to service. This is not
simply a Veolia goal, it is a prerequisite.
Highlights of our plan are presented below:
Maintenance Excellence is
achieved through —
a Absolute adherence to /9M
schedules,
13 Maintenance personnel
accountability,
El External and internal audit
functions.
Maintenance Program: The Veolia maintenance program includes; preventative
maintenance, running repair, servicing and cleaning. In addition to the following
description of maintenance and Preventative Maintenance (PM) activities,
detailed PMI (Preventative Maintenance Inspection) criteria will be included in
the Veolia DAR Maintenance Plan to be developed by the local maintenance
team with support from Veolia's corporate maintenance personnel.
Corrective Maintenance: Vehicles receive corrective maintenance as a result of
referrals from operators, road calls, audits, or deficiencies discovered during
PMI's. Defects are prioritized, a repair order generated and the vehicle
scheduled for repair. All repairs are recorded on the shop's vehicle status board.
Fluid . Replacement and Lubrication: Our PMI Program references fluid
replacement schedules. Veolia only uses fluids that meet vehicle specifications.
We comply, at minimum, with the City requirements.
Inventory Management Program We will use the RTA maintenance management
software program to generate a weekly requisition report which automatically
records re -order points based on historical data documenting usage and delivery
time/schedules. Inventory management reports can improve maintenance
efficiency.
Vehicle Damage Repair: Veolia recognizes that it is important for us to maintain
the quality of the appearance of the DAR fleet. Major repairs to vehicle bodies
will be scheduled immediately and no vehicle with significant body damage will
be allowed in revenue service. Veolia performs and .documents a formal body
inspection (interior and exterior) every month.
Preventative Maintenance Plan and Procedures: Based
mileage readings and the number of elapsed miles
since the previous PMI, inspections are initiated using
the Veolia PM Inspection Checklist. A repair order is
submitted for each PMI and included in the vehicle .
history record. The required repairs are scheduled
based on their severity. PMIs are scheduled so the
upon a review of daily
Preventative maintenance
provides the foundation to
ensure service reliability.
24
QVEOLLA
TRANSPORTATION
since the previous PMI, inspections are initiated using the Veolia PM Inspection
Checklist. A repair order is submitted. for each PMI and included in the vehicle
history record. The required repairs are scheduled based on their severity. PMIs
are scheduled so the daily provision of service is not impacted.
The PMI interval is based on 3,000 miles. This schedule will be continuously
reviewed for changes according to the needs of the vehicles as components
progress through various life cycles.
Air Conditioning: The air conditioning system requires a stand alone PMI
schedule which will be created based on frequency.
When necessary, Veolia Transportation will implement a special program to
ensure all air conditioning systems are prepared for seasonal requirements. No
contract vehicle will be placed in service with an inoperative HVAC system.
Every measure will be taken to ensure that no vehicle in operation has a
defective HVAC system.
Wheelchair lift: Veolia Transportation places specific emphasis on the care of
wheelchair lift and lift systems. The wheelchair lift system will have a separate
PMI schedule. The inspection interval will be determined regulatory
requirements as necessary:
DAR Vehicle Servicing,411,
Recognizing the first "face" of our service is the Our cleaning program ensures
vehicle, Veolia employs a thorough cleaning that the City of Fort Collins and f
regimen. customer expectations are
consistently met.
The servicing of vehicles requires checking and
replenishment of fluids and keeping the vehicle clean, both internally and
externally. Our continued objective is to ensure that the DAR vehicles are kept
in a quality, clean condition at all times for passengers.
Responding to On -Street Mechanical Failures
At all times when a Veolia DAR vehicle is on the road, Veolia Dispatch will be the
designated point -of -contact for any Veolia driver who experiences a mechanical
failure. When the dispatcher or supervisor determines from the driver that the
vehicle is down, the dispatcher or supervisor will take the following actions as
appropriate:
✓ If the Maintenance Department is currently staffed, the dispatcher will
patch the driver through to the Chief Mechanic on duty, and the Mechanic
and driver will determine whether to continue or discontinue use of the
25
Qvr=CUA
TRANSPORTATION
vehicle in service. If it is determined that the vehicle cannot continue in
service, a supervisor or other driver will be dispatched with a spare
vehicle to enable a swap and the continuation of the route. The Mechanic
will also determine whether it is best to have the vehicle towed from the
scene.
✓ When the Maintenance Department is not staffed, the Dispatcher will
patch the driver through to the Mechanic on call, who will determine
whether or not the vehicle can continue in service. If not, another driver
will be dispatched with a spare vehicle so that the route can continue.
The downed vehicle will then be towed.
Road Call reports will be prepared daily for review by the Maintenance Manager
and the Program Manager. These reports will provide information on the
operator, vehicle, nature of the road calls, and time lost from service, if any.
Through daily monitoring, opportunities for improvement can be identified.
Associated action plans will subsequently be developed and implemented.
B. Maintenance Personnel
Veolia's maintenance team will be comprised of the following personnel.
Maintenance Manager - The Maintenance Manager will be responsible for the
overall management of Veolia's maintenance program. He will supervise all staff,
assign all PMI's, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, arrange for all
employee training and development, prepare all reports and oversee the
inventory control process.
Mechanics - Veolia will employ multiple mechanics and technicians. Mechanics
will be responsible for carrying out PMI's, performing planned and unplanned
maintenance and responding to road calls.
QUALITY ASSURANCE
General
Veolia Transportation will carefully monitor the results of the maintenance
program through the use of Quality Assurance Audits and local follow-up
inspections. Furthermore, Veolia's Quality Control Technician will be available to
coordinate with the City on announced and unannounced audits and inspections.
26
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Applications
On a regular basis, Veolia's will randomly audit vehicles with recently completed
or currently in progress scheduled maintenance using the Veolia Transportation
PMI Quality Audit Form. The manager will create an evaluation report to be
shared with the DAR maintenance team. These reports will include findings and
recommendations for improving performance on PMI's as well as specific
corrective actions to be taken pertinent to the audited PMI's.
27
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Automated Systems/Provision of Trips
A. Computer Equipment
1. Proposed Work Stations, Servers & Peripherals
Veolia's Fort Collin's location is outfitted with a network of computers, servers
and peripherals that will allow for communication with the Trapeze system,
thereby permitting the exchange of vehicle schedules and other trip data and
the electronic submittal of data and reports.
2. Service & Support
Network Support: Veolia's network will be supported by our local Colorado Cab
Company IT Department, which is located in Denver, CO. The IT Department is
responsible for overall network administration, creation and deletion of user
accounts, help -desk support for network users and troubleshooting. Most times,
problems can be resolved by phone, e-mail, or by remote access. The IT
Department is a short drive away if any on -site work is necessary.
B. Operation of AVL & MDC Systems
Veolia has extensive experience with the operation and support of'AVL and MDC
technology. We operate a variety of AVL and MDC technology, including Mentor,
Greyhawk and Magellan in locations from Seattle and Orange County in the West
to Detroit and Baltimore in the east. We understand the operating efficiency
and the challenges this technology can create and we know how to insure
service continuity in those instances when the technology fails.
W.,
TRANSPORTATION
October 14, 2008
James B. O'Neill II, CPPO, FNIGP
City of Fort Collins Purchasing Division
Director of Purchasing & Risk Management
215 N. Mason St, 2"d Floor
Fort Collins, CO 80522
RE: RFP P1145 Project; City of Fort Collins Paratransit Service
Dear Mr. O'Neill:
Veolia Transportation On Demand, through its new subsidiary, Shamrock Taxi of
Fort Collins, Inc. is extremely excited to submit this proposal for the operation
and maintenance of the City of Fort Collin's Dial -A -Ride paratransit service
(DAR). Through our prior experience and our careful review of the above -
referenced RFP, we clearly understand the project and your goals for the DAR
service.
Shamrock Taxi of Fort Collins, Inc. has been your DAR provider since 2004.
With this local project knowledge, combined with Veolia's transportation
expertise, we will deliver the best possible service to your riders at a price which
recognizes both the need for quality and fiscal realities faced by the city of Fort
Collins (the City).
During any long-term relationship, the needs of the partners change. We
recognize as both the region and the demand for DAR services have grown, the
needs and expectations for your DAR provider have evolved. At the same time,
our organization has also evolved. In September 2008 Veolia Transportation,
one of the world's leading providers of public transit and paratransit services,
acquired Shamrock Taxi of Fort Collins, Inc. We will now work to transform our
DAR service from what was already a fundamentally sound operation into one
which is truly world -class. Veolia will assess the quality of service to you and
your riders and follow-up the assessment with an enhanced training program for
our drivers. We plan to implement a full range of programs and innovations that
have made Veolia the provider of choice in the paratransit industry. In our
proposal, you will read about the value Veolia intends to bring to the City.
Proposal Highlights
At Veolia, we are extremely excited about the DAR service, and we are excited
about the opportunity to partner with the City of Fort Collins. As a result, we
E
I@VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Operating Plan & Procedures
A. Operating Plan
1. Personnel Hiring & Training
Employee Screening & Hiring
At.Veolia, we recognize that the quality of our drivers determines our success as
a company, so we take hiring and screening very seriously. What follows is a
discussion of the steps in our driver hiring and screening process.
a. Application screening - All applicants are required to complete a written
application, which details previous employment experience and education.
Either the Operations Manager or Safety and Training Manager will screen
all initial applicants. In order to pass the application screen, applicants
must meet the minimum requirements for the position, provide
employment and training history and must permit Veolia to check
references.
b. Skill testing - If the applicant has a CDL and/or prior public transit or
paratransit driving experience, the Operations Manager or Safety and
Training Manager will conduct a road test. The applicant is evaluated for
driving skills, level of comfort behind the wheel and safe driving habits
(e.g. using turn signals, driving cautiously, driving with both hands on the
wheel, etc.). More than three minor violations or any major violation
(such as excessive speed, failing to stop for a stop sign or running a red
light) will result in a failed road test.
cep Interviewing - Qualified applicants will be scheduled for interviews with
the Operations Manager and Safety and Training Manager. Interviews are
behavior -based and are designed to assess the applicant's ability to
problem -solve, the applicant's ability to speak and understand English and
to confirm details provided in the applicant's application. Upon completion
of the interview, each applicant is referred for a DOT physical examination
and a pre -employment drug and alcohol test.
off. Pre -employment drug and alcohol testing - An important step in screening
applicants is the pre -employment drug test. Veolia complies with all
Federal Transit Administration regulations regarding drug and alcohol
testing as set forth in the Request for Proposal. (A copy of our corporate
drug and alcohol testing program is included in the proposal appendices.)
e. Criminal background check - Veolia hires a third party firm to conduct
criminal background checks. The check includes both federal and state
records for the previous ten year period. The processing time for these
checks is 72 hours.
c
;
QVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
ffo Driving record check - An applicant's Department of Motor Vehicles
driving record is required at time of interview. Once contracted, the
operator's DMV driving record is reviewed by in-house retrieval at least
twice a year to ensure that the operator's operating license remains in
compliance with the requirements set forth above.
glo Probationary Term - All drivers begin their tenure with Veolia in a 180-
day probationary status. This time is important because it gives us the
opportunity to evaluate their performance, attendance and commitment
to safety. During this period, drivers will be evaluated and other drivers
will be subject to at least one performance appraisal before moving from
probationary to permanent status. Even after the probationary period, all
drivers for this project will be considered as "at -will" drivers, and as such,
any serious violations of company policy are subject to disciplinary action,
up to and including termination.
Driver Training
There is probably no other area in this business that reflects the values of Veolia
more than how much we invest in our drivers through training. On the surface,
that investment takes the shape of the three week (120 hour) training program
all new Veolia drivers, dispatchers, supervisors and managers for the DAR
service will receive. However, it takes more than time in the classroom or on the
road to make an effective training program. It also takes quality of curriculum
and effectiveness of delivery. At Veolia, we take pride in our Operator
Development Program TM, which we developed with the assistance of the
nation's leading training program developer, Avatar. Veolia's Operator
Development Program (ODP) has been designed to maximize the success rate of
each trainee through innovative presentation of materials, classroom instruction,
participatory exercises and behind -the -wheel real -world instruction. Veolia's
significant investment to create a new industry training standard through this
program is proof of our commitment to deliver a world class safety organization
to the City.
Veolia Operator Development ProgramT`"
The new Veolia Operator Development ProgramTM uses a core standardized
curriculum developed by Avatar Systems designed to teach a series of
prerequisite knowledge and skills necessary for all Veolia operators driving a
vehicle in revenue service. The standardized curriculum is customized to fit the
needs of each of our specific Veolia operating locations.
All of our vehicle operators must successfully complete the comprehensive
training program outlined below:
30
QVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
✓ ovew Wg@drL-!!r ° -o• o Veolia's "Winter Weather Vehicle Operation"
course consists of the following and is taught to all operators both at the
time of hire and in refresher training: Skid Control, Black Ice, Traction,
Practical Applications of Winter Equipment, Do's and Don'ts of Winter
Weather Driving. This course was created using a combination of Avatar,
the Smith System and the National Safety Council and Transportation
Safety Institute materials.
✓ o a ° Fd§d9@ dojo ° o -off - This course includes; system familiarization,
completion of a vehicle condition report, the area /street network
familiarization, map reading, familiarization and completion of the
operator manifest, customer assistance techniques, and the FTA
Substance Abuse Program.
✓ V@h# § oGY Gv- r o This course provides instruction on how to conduct
pre -trip and post -trip inspections and use of the 2 way communication
system.
✓ MOW MDA, Y This course focuses on proper wheelchair lift operation
and mobility aid securement.
✓ w o This course provides classroom training on
accident prevention and defensive driving courses from Avatar, National
Safety Council Defensive Operator training program and the Smith
System.
✓ovqgff o- o -off - This course provides instruction pertaining to
breakdowns and accident procedures; emergency procedures and
practices including, but not limited to, emergency evacuation of vehicles.
✓ - ft§ - - This instruction trains students to better identify and
respond to medical emergencies. This includes first aid training and the
safe handling of blood -borne pathogens (per 29CFR 1910.1030).
✓ 61W' Instruction is focused on passenger sensitivity and
interaction with all persons, including persons with disabilities, persons of
diverse races, cultures and sexual orientation, the elderly and children.
This course includes dealing with difficult people and conflict management
techniques. This course provides Passenger Assistance Technique (P.A.T.)
and Passenger Service and Safety (PASS) Certification.
✓ .i@dGvd °-oM 7 or This course provides an overview on applicable laws
and regulations, with emphasis on the ADA and its transportation
requirements.
✓ W@Mb@# M@F@MM@Bdt This course provides training on preventing and
reporting sexual harassment.
31
QVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
✓ P0#j ffN This course focuses on prevention and reporting
procedures.
Training for Dispatchers and Supervisors
All dispatch and supervisory staff will attend driver training. In addition, all
dispatchers and supervisors will attend additional training as well as refresher
training each year.
To the maximum extent possible, all dispatchers and supervisors will be cross -
trained to perform each other's duties. The Safety and Training Manager and
Project Manager will also be fully trained in all dispatch and supervisory
functions. What follows is a summary of the training which will be provided to
dispatchers and supervisors.
Two C
✓ Veolia Transportation Employment Policies &
Procedures
✓ DAR Service Standards & Rider Policies &
Procedures
✓ General System Overview
✓ How to resolve service problems caused by late
or downed routes
✓ Emergency Procedures and Response
Notification
✓ Responding to Accidents & Incidents
✓ Safety Policies and Accident Reporting
✓ Drug & Alcohol Testing Procedures
✓ Vehicle Operating Knowledge
✓ Prioritization of Call Requests
✓ Recordkeeping responsibilities
✓ Hazard Communication Program
✓ Radio System, AVL and MDC Operation
✓ Workplace Security Plan
✓ Use of Radio Etiquette and 10-Codes
32
d
VE0LJA
TRANSPORTATION
✓ Telephone Etiquette and Complaint Taking
✓ Filling Work Assignments
✓ Progressive Discipline
✓ ADA knowledge
✓ Oral & Written Communication
Other Employees
Veolia will provide the following training to all personnel (regardless of job title
and duties).
✓ PASS class
✓ DAR Paratransit Service Familiarization
✓ ADA Passenger Sensitivity (This does not include training which is
provided to drivers, dispatchers and supervisors through the ODP)
✓ Veolia standards of conduct and company policies and procedures
✓ Job -specific training - as needed.
Refresher Training
Veolia will provide refresher training for all employees as necessary. This
training will focus on any changes to the DAR service. Customer service and
safety -related materials will be developed based on our performance and any
identified areas of needed improvement.
2. Driver Duties
Veolia expects its drivers to provide safe, courteous and professional service.
The specific duties which Veolia expects its drivers to perform are summarized
below.
✓ Safely operate assigned vehicle in all types of weather, traffic, and road
conditions.
✓ Undertake assignments at varying times of day/night over seven-day
period.
✓ Operate in accordance with pre -developed time schedule as modified by
same -day changes communicated by Veolia dispatchers.
✓ Use a two-way radio, mobile data computer or comparable
communication equipment to communicate with dispatchers and
supervisors in accordance with company and contractual policies and
procedures.
33
QVESUA
TRANSPORTATION
✓ Document all actions on vehicle manifest, trip sheets or within mobile
data computer in accordance with company and contractual requirements.
✓ Perform pre -trip and post -trip inspections in accordance with company
procedures and document any observed defects prior to beginning or
ending service.
✓ Properly and thoroughly document any accidents or incidents which occur,
whether or not there are injuries, vehicle damage or property damage.
✓ Provide courteous and appropriate assistance to passengers, most of
whom are seniors, people with disabilities and people with other special
needs.
✓ Perform other related duties as directed.
3. Dispatch Procedures
Role of Dispatchers
Dispatchers will be based at the facility and act as liaisons among Veolia
management, drivers, maintenance personnel, and TransFort dispatch. They are
responsible for communicating all instructions related to the operation of service
and minimizing any service disruptions. They track and report daily statistical
information regarding service performance to management. Specific Dispatcher
responsibilities include:
✓ Monitor and document daily service operation regarding safety and
on -time performance in the Dispatch Log.
✓ Ensure all operators are following company rules and procedures.
✓ Greet operators when they report for work; witness operators signing on
for duty, assign buses to individual operators, and provide them with
information necessary to operate their route including any changes,
special conditions, or detours.
✓ Manage all radio communication, advising supervisors of complaints and
incidents that occur; dispatching supervisors or maintenance staff to all
accidents, mechanical failures; and advising operators of appropriate
actions in response to operational problems/incidents.
✓ Record attendance of operators and note absences, sickness,
suspensions, or other attendance irregularities and report this information
to the Operations Manager.
✓ Record exceptions to normal service operation, including schedule delays
and interruptions of service and report this information to the Operations
Manager or his/her designee.
✓ Maintain an accurate record of the status of all bus and radio equipment.
✓ Communicate with maintenance personnel to ensure proper responses to
vehicle defects and proper assignment of vehicles to revenue service.
34
TRANSPORTATION
✓ Report to the Operations Manager or his/her designee, problems with any
aspect of the operation.
A major responsibility of Dispatchers is to ensure schedule adherence.
Coordination with maintenance personnel will allow Dispatchers to know which
vehicles are on the ready line, the number of available spares, the estimated
time of availability for vehicles in maintenance, and the location of all vehicles.
Basic procedures for Dispatchers include:
✓ The Dispatcher distributes a vehicle to each driver, considering
availability, maintenance requirements, and training needs. The vehicle
status board will allow vehicle placement to be coordinated each day with
maintenance and vehicles are reassigned, if necessary, due to
maintenance scheduling or equipment failure. The Dispatcher manages
radio communication with operators throughout the day and verifies that
the operator is in the vehicle and departing on time.
✓ The Dispatcher notes any changes in the status of each run, takes
corrective actions as needed to maintain on -time service and documents
these changes in the Dispatch Log.
Fitness for Duty
One of the most important functions that Dispatchers perform is affirming a
driver's fitness for duty. All Dispatchers are trained to recognize drug and
alcohol use. Drivers are required to report to the Dispatcher before starting their
assignment so that this assessment can be made. The Dispatcher observes the
driver's behavior through a polite greeting and conversation. The appearance of
the driver including uniform, grooming and safety equipment is also confirmed.
Any driver considered unfit for service will be placed on investigative
suspension.
4. System Safety Procedures
Veolia is committed to operating and maintaining our services in a manner that
keeps our employees, passengers and the public at large safe. The foundation of
this commitment is embodied in our comprehensive Safety Policies and
Procedures. These procedures are detailed in our corporate safety manual which
is provided in the proposal appendices. What follows is a brief summary of the
highlights of our safety program.
Safety -Related Training - All employees receive training on safety -related
topics, including potential exposure to hazardous chemicals and bio-hazards, the
use of personal protective equipment, accident, incident and environmental
35
VED U a
TRANSPORTATION
hazards reporting procedures and the steps to take if exposed to an
environmental or biological hazard..
Workplace Injury Prevention - Veolia emphasizes the use of safe work habits,
and we treat unsafe work habits as a matter of extreme importance. Employees
are trained regarding the safe and appropriate ways to perform their duties.
Employees who perform their duties in an unsafe manner are subject to
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
Safety Meetings - Veolia conducts regular safety meetings (typically once per
month) at every location, and all employees are required to attend. These
meetings afford the opportunity for employees to discuss and learn from any
recent accidents or injuries and to provide refresher training on safety -related
topics. Safety meetings also afford an excellent opportunity for recognizing
employees who perform their duties in a safe manner.
Safety -Related Incentives - Veolia provides recognition and rewards to
employees who operate safely. Typically, these rewards take the form of cash
payments, which are given to employees who have operated safely the prior
year.
Accident and Incident Investigation - Our goal is to prevent accidents. However,
whenever an accident occurs, we take the accident investigation very seriously.
When an employee is involved in an accident or incident, the Safety Manager is
responsible for investigating the incident to determine preventability. Veolia
follows a corporate mandated process to determine accident preventability.
Trained supervisors at the scene perform accident investigation and
circumstances of the accident are brought to the Safety and Training Manager
for initial determination of preventability. The Safety and Training Manager will
respond to the scene to lead the accident investigation for all serious incidents.
Our Safety and Training Manager will make the determination according to
National Safety Council Standards on Determining Preventability. The operator is
then interviewed and questioned.
Should the accident be deemed preventable, the operator is _scheduled to
undergo post accident training immediately. The training is accident specific, in
that it addresses the type of accident, along with basic defensive operator
training. Post -accident training is documented, and corrective disciplinary
actions are taken, if warranted.
36
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
B. Employee Recruitment
Recruitment Techniques
At Veolia, our goal is to recruit from as many sources as possible and then to
monitor the quality and quantity of response so that we can target our efforts
where they will be most effective. These recruitment sources include, but are
not limited to:
✓ Ads placed in local newspapers, including papers which are targeted to
specific communities, neighborhoods and minority communities
✓ Postings on websites such as www.craigslist.com, www.careerbuilder.com
and www.monster.com as well as any locally oriented job search websites
✓ Presence at local job fairs, sponsored by civic organizations, colleges,
universities and other agencies
37
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Exceptions & Omissions
Exceptions
Veolia Transportation takes no exceptions to any of the requirements set
forth in the RFP or any attachments thereto. We acknowledge receipt of
three addendums to the RFP.
We have exercised the option to include an alternate proposal for your
consideration. This proposal has been included in the "Cost Proposal"
package.
Omissions
Veolia Transportation fully understands the requirements of the RFP and
is prepared to comply fully with the terms and conditions. Accordingly,
we have no omissions regarding any requirements.
M
A 'VEOLJA
TRANSPORTATION
are extremely pleased to offer a proposal which includes the following key
components:
Sound Operating Plan and Procedures
We have developed an operating plan which includes not only the dedicated
vehicles, drivers, management resources and technology needed to provide
word -class services, but we have also developed a plan which includes a
comprehensive training program for drivers,, dispatchers, supervisors and other
staff.
Exceptional Management and Support
Veolia is proposing Dave Mullin for this project. Dave brings years of experience
in the Northern Colorado transportation industry, and has been managing the
DAR project for over a year. In support of Dave will be our Area General
Manager, Ross Alexander further supported by Senior Vice President, Brad
Whittle and the very best corporate staff in the industry. This team will provide
ongoing assistance to Dave in the areas of operational support, Trapeze support,
ADA compliance, disability community relations, HR management, facility and
environmental management and maintenance. .
Commitment to Innovation
Veolia is committed to using every tool at our disposal to address any concerns
you may have during this contract. We have strong experience with Trapeze
management and with the use of MDC's. Through Dave Mullin and our
corporate support team, we will be able to work with you to continue to develop
this program to make it the most cost effective DAR service for you and your
riders.
Focused on Customers
At Veolia, we recognize that our entire business rests on having clients and
customers who appreciate the service we provide. We also understand that
strong customer service does not just happen; it takes an ongoing investment in
the recruitment and retention of the right employees and in high -quality
training. Veolia is very selective in our hiring decisions, and we have the most
comprehensive safety and training programs in the industry. We are particularly
proud of our Veolia Operator Development ProgramT"' which all drivers,
dispatchers, and supervisors must attend and our supplemental training
programs for the continued growth of our managers and supervisors. Simply
put, our work force is the best trained in the industry, and you will see this fact
3
QVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Veolia Cost Proposal
RFP # IP11145 fParatrawsit Services
Veolia is pleased to present the following cost proposal for your consideration.
• Veolia plans to replace all vehicles currently used in the DAR Program
within 90 days of the program award date. The ten vehicles will consist of
four newly converted wheel chair accessible mini -vans, plus six late model
Ford Crown Victoria Sedans or similar type vehicle.
• All fleet vehicles will be equipped with Trapeze interfaced MDC's.
• A dedicated, uniformed staff of Independent Contractor drivers that will
receive all of the enhanced training and testing that has been proposed in
our Technical Proposal in response to the RFP.
• Full staffing of all management and support positions that have been
proposed in our Technical Proposal in response to the RFP.
• Performance Risk: Veolia is putting at risk all of the up -front capital
dollars by providing fleet replacement vehicles within 90 days of the
program award date. This capital is at risk because the contract gives the
City of Fort Collins the right to terminate at any time without cause.
Veolia has a strong track record of working with our clients to solve issues
together and Veolia strongly believes we can meet and exceed the
paratransit operating standards outlined in the RFP, or we would not be
willing to put our capital at risk.
Cost - We have based the cost for this service on our pricing models and are
pleased to offer the following rates for the respective contract years:
Cost Per Trip
Type of Service 2009* 2010* 2011* 2012* 2013*
Ambulatory $22.00 $22.66 $23.34 $24.04 $24.76
Non -ambulatory $28.00 $28.84 $29.71 $30.60 $31.52
* No show trips (defined as those trips not cancelled prior to four hours before
the trip is scheduled for pick up) will be billed at 50% of the above noted Cost
Per Trip.
39
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
* The above rates will be subject to a fuel adjustment, which shall be based
upon any substantial increases in the cost of regular gasoline during the term of
this agreement. In the event the cost of regular gasoline shall increase by more
than $.25 per gallon over the current rate of $3.20 per gallon which is based on
the AAA Daily Fuel Gauge Report for the Colorado Region, the City of Fort Collins
agrees to reimburse Veolia an additional $.18 per trip for every $.25 increase in
the cost of regular gasoline. The fuel adjustment shall be based on the AAA
Daily Fuel Gauge Report for the Colorado Region as of the first of every month
for the term of this contact and the adjustment will apply to all trips operated in
that month.
* Due to historical fluctuations in ridership, and which provider actually performs
the trips, if the volume stated in addendum #1 decreases by 20% annually,
Veolia reserves the right to renegotiate our trip pricing.
* MDC costing is not in this proposal because Veolia did not receive pricing for
the original 10 units as referenced in the original RFP page 4 item 1.
.s
VEOLIA
Appendix Table of Contents
Lobbying Certification...............................................................................Tab 1
Veolia Certificate of Liability......................................................................Tab 2
Veolia Environnment Financial Statements..............................................Tab 3
Veolia Corporate Maintenance Manual .....................................................Tab 4
Veolia Corporate Safety Manual................................................................Tab 5
Veolia Corporate EMS Manual...................................................................Tab 6
Veolia Corporate ®rug & Alcohol Testing.................................................Tab 7
PUC License and Contact Information .....................................................Tab 8
41
CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING
Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative Agreements
(To be submitted with each bid or offer exceeding $100, 000)
The undersigned [Contractor] certifies, to the best of his or her
knowledge and belief, that:
(1) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any
person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of an agency, a Member of Congress, an
officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of
any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant, the' making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any
cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal
contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.
(2) If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for making
lobbying contacts to an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of
Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or
cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, "Disclosure Form to
Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions [as amended by "Government wide Guidance for New
Restrictions on Lobbying," 61 Fed. Reg. 1413 (1/19/96). Note: Language in paragraph (2) herein has been
modified in accordance with Section 10 of the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-65, to be codified at 2
U.S.C. 1601, etseq.)]
(3) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all
subawards at all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative
agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly.
This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was
made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction
imposed by 31, U.S.C. § 1352 (as amended by the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995). Any person who fails to file
the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000
for each such failure.
[Note: Pursuant to 31 U.S.C. § 1352(c)(1)-(2)(A), any person who makes a prohibited expenditure or fails to file or
amend a required certification or disclosure form shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and
not more than $100,000 for each such expenditure or failure.]
The Contractor, Veolia Transportation On Demand certifies or affirms the truthfulness and accuracy of each
statement of its certification and disclosure, if any. In addition, the Contractor understands and agrees that the
provisioWf 31 U.S.C. A 3801, et seq., apply to this certification and disclosure, if any.
re of Contractor's Authorized Official
Brad Whittle, Senior Vice President/ Regional Vice President
Veolia Transportation On Demand
Name and Title of Contractor's Authorized Official
A�"�� 06 Date
Return this form with your proposal
RFP P1145
Project: OPERATION OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
PARATRANSIT SERVICE
i R•T...._ AA
TRANSPORTATION
play out in virtually every area of our performance, including employee
retention, system safety and customer satisfaction.
A Financially Responsible Bid
Veolia recognizes the financial challenges posed by flat productivity, increasing
demand for service and rising costs for fuel, labor and other service
components. To this end, we have sought to develop the most fiscally
conservative proposal possible.
Choosing Veolia for Outstanding Performance
We want to continue to work for you! Our proposal demonstrates our best
efforts in responding to your requirements and identifying your needs.
We are committed to delivering the service you need and your customers
deserve. If you have any questions about our proposal or any of the other
information we are providing in the appendices, please feel free to contact me
directly. You may also contact our Area General Manager Ross Alexander.
Brad Whittle
Senior Vice -President
Veolia Transportation on Demand
7500 E. 415t Avenue
Denver, CO 80216
(303) 316-3850 direct
(303) 316-3851 fax
(720) 940-3689 mobile
Brad. Wh ittle0)veol iatransportatio. com
Ross Alexander
Area General Manager
Shamrock Taxi of Fort Collins
4414 E Harmony Rd, Ste 200
Fort Collins, CO 80528
(970) 225-4800 direct
(970) 223-5080 fax
(303) 324-5426 mobile
Ross. Alexander0)veoliatransportation.com
We want to close by thanking you for the current partnership we enjoy and for
taking the time to consider our proposal to continue as the City's DAR provider.
We stand ready to serve and we look forward to meeting with you and your
Evaluation Committee to discuss our proposal in greater detail.
Sincerely,
lir- pd, -
Brad Whittle
Senior Vice -President
Veolia Transportation on Demand
4
VEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Experience and Qualifications
A. Corporate Experience
With Veolia Transportation, the City of Fort Collins Paratransit Service program
DAR (DAR) receives the best of both worlds - the resources and financial
stability of a best -in -class world wide transportation provider and the
individualized attention of a local team with years of experience.
Veolia Transportation is a world leader in the operation and management of
public and private transportation systems with an unparalleled presence in the
United States. Presently, Veolia Transportation is in operation in 27 countries
with 72,000 employees: serving 2.5 billion passengers through the provision of
bus, paratransit, taxi, shuttle, rail, and ferry services.
Veolia Transportation is the largest private multi modal passenger services
company in North America, with 102 contracts in 22 states and annual revenues
of $1 billion. There are 17,000 employees on the Veolia North American team.
The map below depicts Veolia's North American contracts.
Veolia Transportation Contracts
March, 2008
• Se atlle
Mon treat •
� �) you hkee sle
• Minneapohs ( (/Toronto • g�lpu Boston
Redding Boise � kesha 1 _ .artfo rdyrg- ape Cod
aChico Waukesha Detroit • N-Bridgeport
Yolo 6U•Marysville �SS J ^Flem in ggto »�
Santa Rosa. Woodland De Ka18� I�ind� Baltimore Co��r,Newark
Napa Arlington P1 ittsburg h�►_..� IiEli zabeth
San Francisco f�akla land DC'� �allim ore
San Jose w �'"`'�—��, --�� Cin clnn atl�? 4 h.nce �eorg e's
N.r\\\
Denver �St. Louis♦ �� ,f Arl gton Cow LOlem �o
Lancasr Kansas City+'- `\Lexington• 7�
Santa Cla/rit ��Las Veg as� / a i�fton-Salem
Asheville Ralei h
• actor Valley .- 9
Los Angeles •Pomona Kn oxvillei � c Gre e'n"s bo ro
g sA Covi �C'on corde
Irvin e. ��,iTempe Columbia ip >
Oceanside O'Phoenix Mesa Marietta OGwinnett Co.
San Diego + • ll N.�6,arleston
\ Tucson Dallasa& WBeaufort Co.
\`--� LEGEND Austin �w;P e n s ac ola
So v
• Fixed route
Houston+ Tam paw
• Parat ransit •Palm Beach
o Fixed route & Pare transit Desoto County ON �Ft. Lauderdale
® Brokerage/Management Miami
• Rail
Taxi
• Airport
• SuperShuttle
5
QVEGUA
TRANSPORTATION
A Proven Paratransit Performer
Veolia Transportation is an industry leader in the field of ADA paratransit and we
pride ourselves on our broad range of project experience. We operate some of
the largest and most respected systems in the country. We have unparalleled
experience in virtually every type of service delivery model —ranging from
turnkey operations to both decentralized and centralized brokerage operations,
serving as call center brokers and/or vehicle operators.
Experience with ADA and FTA Guidegines
One area where Veolia Transportation sets the standard for other companies to
follow is in our knowledge of and experience with the delivery of transportation
services for people with disabilities, and our philosophy towards this services. In
every public transit project we operate or manage, the needs of disabled people
and compliance with the requirements of the Americans Disabilities Act (ADA)
are key aspects of our operating policies and procedures, staff training and
performance monitoring. Following are some examples of our depth of
understanding of the ADA and our commitment to fully serving the needs of
disabled passengers.
✓ In every location operated or managed by Veolia Transportation, ADA
compliance is incorporated within our Scope of Services. In locations
providing fixed -route service, we are often responsible for interpreting
ADA guidelines in order to ensure compliance with; route and stop
announcement, priority seating, mobility device securement and lift/ramp
maintenance protocols. In locations where we manage or operate
paratransit services, we not only have responsibility for providing service
that complies with the law, but in many instances, we also have
responsibility for the eligibility certification process. This high level of
exposure to the requirements of the ADA necessitates us to ensure that
managers, supervisors and front-line personnel clearly understand what
the law requires and the specifications contained therein for how they
perform their duties.
✓ We currently employ people with several different types of disabilities in a
wide range of management, supervisory and front-line positions across
the country, as well as right here in Colorado. As a result, we have not
only gained a number of high quality and committed employees, but we
have also deepened our understanding .of the capabilities of people with
disabilities and strategies for making responsible accommodations in the
work environment.
✓ All driver and front line employee training programs (whether for fixed
route or paratransit) include a summary of ADA requirements and a
TRANSPORTATION
discussion of the policies, procedures and practical tips for ensuring
compliance.
✓ Because of the long professional involvement many of our corporate,
regional and local managers .have had with the ADA and service to people
with disabilities, we are able to collaborate on questions and problems
that arise regarding the ADA, the provision of accessible and legally
compliance services, the administration of ADA eligibility certification, and
other issues which arise pertaining to service to people with disabilities.
Typically, this sharing takes place on an informal basis via email or
telephone conversations. Additionally, the corporate office can provide or
assist in an evaluation of the location's service to customers with
disabilities (including compliance on ADA requirements). If problems are
discovered, improvements are recommended and assistance with policy
and procedures changes and staff retraining is provided.
✓ All Veolia Transportation driver -training programs (as well as those of any
subcontracted services providers) specifically require training regarding
techniques for safely and appropriately servicing customers with
disabilities and for dealing with disability -related incidents, such as
epileptic seizures.
✓ A number of Veolia Transportation employees are considered to be
subject area experts in a host of ADA and disability -related topic areas,
including; ADA eligibility certification, brokerage operation, service
coordination and passenger sensitivity and awareness. Many. of these
people serve on nationally recognized professional organizations and
committees, such as the American Public Transit Association's
Accessibility Committee, Paratransit Committee, Project ACTION and the
Transportation Research Board Paratransit Committee. Individuals
affiliated with these groups not only help shape the future direction of
accessible transit and paratransit services, they also exchange ideas and
solutions with other professionals and bring best practices back to the
company for wider implementation.
In addition to our industry -leading knowledge of and experience with the ADA
Veolia has extensive knowledge of and experience with FTA guidelines,
including; National Transit Database reporting, FTA drug & alcohol testing and
reporting requirements, as well as the full range of other FTA requirements
which govern the delivery of fixed -route and paratransit services. In many of
our locations, we gather required data, prepare reports and assist our clients
with audits and reviews conducted by the FTA and other federal, state and local
funding and regulatory bodies.
7
QVEOLIA
TRANSPORTATION
Veofla da[lue Adds
You will find our RFP proposal to be both responsive and cost effective.
However, there are key areas where Veolia's proposal adds more value than that
of other competing firms. Here are some of the "value adds" Veolia is including
in our base proposal.
Broad Range ®f Paratrans it Experience
erience
Veolia has been awarded many paratransit operating contracts. We believe our
background in transit, paratransit and the private transportation industry in
conjunction with our ability to bring a deep knowledge of the letter and spirit of
the ADA, as well as a strong track record with technology and innovation sets us
apart from everyone in the industry.
Experience with Trapeze
Veolia has a long history of using Trapeze to reserve, schedule and dispatch
service. We use Trapeze in dozens of locations across North America, ranging in
size from Orange County, CA (where we provide 4,600 trips per day) to
Charleston, SC, where we use Trapeze to make sure that about 200 passengers
get to their jobs, doctor's appointments and other engagements on time. In
addition to having lots of locations operating in a Trapeze environment, we use
Trapeze in a variety of different service delivery systems. In some locations, we
use Trapeze to schedule trips, but we dispatch manually via the two-way radio.
In other systems, we operate Trapeze in conjunction with AVL and MDC
technology. This depth and breadth of real -world experience gives us a flexible
mindset about the best way to approach issues like passenger productivity, on -
time performance and service scheduling, and it means that when we begin to
tackle the challenges of increasing productivity while maintaining system
quality, we will have lots of divergent experience upon which to draw.
Veolia has considerable Trapeze experience and recently expanded our overall
Trapeze sophistication through the recruitment of the two best experts in the
industry, Janet Davis and Christopher Bryan. Janet's and Christopher's vast
experience with the development and deployment of the Trapeze product line is
detailed in the Organizational Background and Overview of this proposal, but it
is important to point out here that many of the innovative Trapeze management
practices utilized by a number of our industry competitors were developed by
Christopher and Janet, and Veolia is now benefiting from their expertise on a
daily basis. Having experts like Janet Davis and Christopher Bryan available to
the DAR project will yield measurable results in the areas of productivity,
dispatch effectiveness and MDC integration, and in the event that a problem
2