Item No.
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
BY: JASON CHACON, DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION
DATE: OCTOBER 8, 2024
SUBJECT: DISCUSSION REGARDING CITY HOSTED HISTORICAL TOURS USING A
DOUBLE DECKER BUS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City Council will discuss hosting City historical tours using a double decker bus as transportation. The City Tours would be coordinated with local historians and take place during the holidays, to also include stops at Holiday Home Decorating contest homes, along the proposed route.
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council:
Provide staff direction regarding hosting City historical tours.
BACKGROUND
At the August 13, 2024 City Council meeting, the City Council requested staff bring back a report to discuss possible City historical tours, via a double decker bus. The tours would take place during the holidays to be able to also incorporate “Holiday Home” decorating contest participants.
ANALYSIS
City staff explored methods of hosting historical tours using a double decker bus as transportation. A possible concept for City Council consideration is to host City Historical Tours that would consist of multiple two-hour tours highlighting popular Downey historical landmarks throughout the City, and participants of the City’s Holiday Home Decorating Contest that are nearby the tour route.
Parks and Recreation staff can work with the Downey Conservancy and outline the proposed route and highlight which landmarks will be included. Staff will also work closely with other City departments, including Police and Public Works, for additional support as needed.
DISCUSSION REGARDING CITY HOSTED HISTORICAL TOURS USING A DOUBLE DECKER BUS OCTOBER 8, 2024
PAGE 2
2 Staff researched multiple bus companies with availability during the desired timeframe.
The rental cost for an 8-hour rental would be approximately $6,000. The bus seats 54 people upstairs and 32 people downstairs for a total of 86 seats. Staff estimates an additional $1,500 for marketing and supplies.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Public Engagement
FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of the recommended action will result in an appropriation of $7,500 from the General Fund – Fund Balance to the Parks & Recreation Department, Account No. 10-4- 4322-0500 for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. There is sufficient fund balance for the recommended actions.