MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
FOR IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION OF
REGIONAL EXPRESS TRANSIT SERVICES
IN TULARE AND KINGS COUNTY
THIS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (the "MOU") is made and effective as of XXX X, XXXX, by and between the Tulare County Association of Governments, the City of Visalia, and the Tulare County Regional Transit Agency, each a "Party" and collectively the “Parties,” with reference to the following facts:
A. The Tulare County Association of Governments (hereinafter “TCAG”) is a joint powers authority established under the laws of the State of California and is responsible for overall transportation planning and tra nsportation funding in Tulare County; Tulare County Regional Transit Agency (hereinafter “TCRTA” ) is a joint powers authority established under the laws of the State of California and responsible for providing public transit services within selected commun ities in Tulare County and between those communities and to other Tulare County cities not members of TCRTA, and the City of Visalia (hereinafter “City”) a charter city and municipal corporation established under the laws of the State of California . The City of Visalia is the owner and manager of Visalia Transit.
B. The Parties desire to cooperatively provide Regional Express Public Transit services within and without Tulare County, as specified herein.
C. Numerous planning studies to expand public transit ser vices in Tulare County have been conducted over the last 20 years, with the most recent studies being the 2018 Cross Valley Corridor Plan and a follow-up 2024 Kings-Tulare Cross -Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan. The 2018 study identified a Huron -Lemoore-Hanford-Visalia-Lindsay-Porterville transportation corridor and envisioned rail transit service operating along existing railroad rights-of-way. The Phase 1 Operations Plan recommended incremental implementation of the 2018 study vision, with an initi al bus service along the most active and viable portions of the Cross Valley Corridor. In addition, the 2024 State Rail Plan identifies and endorses an initial bus service along the Cross Valley Corridor to connect initial ly with San Joaquin Amtrak trains and eventually with high-speed rail trains at the Kings-Hanford Station.
D. The Phase 1 Operations Plan identified a n initial Cross Valley Express (CVX) routing from NAS Lemoore to Lindsay via Lemoore, Hanford, Visalia and Far mersville. High quality service operated with high quality vehicles serving distinctive stations and stops were identified. Service frequency was recommended for every 30 minutes for about 16 -18 hours daily.
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E. During the capital funding process, TCAG chose to compete for capital funding to operate the initial high-quality CVX bus route from the Hanford Amtrak Station to Lindsay, via Visalia and Farmersville. In addition, TCAG included a request for capital funding for a proposed bus rapid transit (BRT) corridor operating between Visalia and Tul are via Mooney Boulevard (SR 63) with envisioned 15-minute service frequencies.
F. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has disseminated guidance on designi ng and integrating bus rapid transit services and improvements on Caltrans facilities. Caltrans BRT policy is identified in Director’s Policy Number DP-27-R1 (2013) and Deputy Directive DD -98- R1 (2013). In both documents, Caltrans acknowledges federal BRT definitions as follows:
“BRT can best be described as a combination of facility, systems, and vehicle investments that convert conventional bus services into a fixed-facility transit service, greatly increasing their efficiency and effectiveness to the end user,” and.
BRT is a “flexible, rubber -tired form of rapid -transit mode that combines stations, vehicles, services, running ways, and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) elements into an integrated system with a strong positive identity.”
In addition to the BRT guidance, Caltrans has also issued policy documents on “complete streets.” Director’s Policy Number DP-37 (2021) states that “all transportation projects funded or overseen by Caltrans will provide comfortable, convenient, and connected compl ete streets facilities for people walking, biking, and taking transit ” unless an exception is documented and approved.
G. The State of California approved the TCAG funding request and capitalized the Cross Valley Corridor and the Mooney BRT (collectively the “Regional Express Transit Services” program) with a grant of $59.1 million from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP), Cycle 7 to TCAG as the initial project sponsor. TCAG anticipates providing operating funds to enable the regional transit service as described in the grant application.
H. TCAG, TCRTA and City anticipate requesting several changes to the TIRCP grant scope to allow for additional flexibility and accommodate unanticipated cost increases in delivering the program. These include deferring full service to Lindsay and initially providing Cross Valley Corridor service from Farmersville to Hanford via Visalia, changes to the locations and scope of stops and stations, and more detailed plans for the Mooney Boulevard BRT service.
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I. The Parties anticipate that the initial CVX service as amended will provide about 75-80 daily vehicle hours of service and the BRT (operating at 15 - minutes service frequencies) will also provide about 75 -80 daily vehicle hours of service.
J. This MOU identifies operational considerations; a corresponding MOU is anticipated to identify the structure and methods to deliver the capital elements of the Regional Express Transit Services.
THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth below and to implement the goals described above, the Parties agree as follows:
l. Purposes of MOU. The primary purposes of this MOU are to (i) facilitate a cooperative and ongoing working relationship among the Parties that will allow them to explore, study, evaluate a nd (to the extent the Parties agree) develop and implement mutually beneficial approaches and strategies for delivering the Regional Express Transit Services program , (ii) adopt and implement service specifications and service characteristics, including necessary internal documents and studies, and (iii) identify the roles of each agency to deliver the desired service.
2. Consistency with Grant Requirements and Policy. The Parties agree that the Regional Express Transit Service s defined herein are consistent with and represent the implementation direction and guidance of the TCAG Board of Directors and State of California funding agencies. TCAG shall coordinate any and all changes to the TIRCP Cycle 7 grant scope as the grant applicant.
3. Zero Emission Vehicle s. In accordance with California regulations, all Regional Express Transit Services shall be operated by zero-emission vehicles.
4. Implementation. The Parties desire to initiate Regional Express Transit Services by August of 2028. Upon service implementation, current Kings Area Rural Transit Route 15 and Visalia Transit and TCRTA Routes 11X and Route 1 will be terminated and other routes revised as appropriate.
5. Responsibilities of the Parties. It is agreed that City, acting through Visalia Transit, will be the owner, sponsor and operator of the CVX and the Mooney BRT service and will adopt service criteria for the Regional Express Transit Services , including speed, stop spacing and service levels, fare policy and stop and station requirements consistent with accepted definitions of BRT service; City will partner with TCRTA on shared operations of the Mooney BRT route; TCAG will coordinate funding and advocate for additional capital and operating funding as needed.
6. BRT Standards & Crit eria. When identifying, developing and adopting specific service design and facility design criteria for the Regional Express Transit Services, City shall incorporate guidance and standards from the following documents:
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Caltrans, Bus Rapid Transit: A Hand book for Partner - 2007, page 7, Table 2 – Minimum Standard of “Intermediate Stage”
Federal Transit Administration, Characteristics of Bus Rapid Transit for Decision making, 2004, FTA-VA-26-7222-2004.1
Transportation Research Board, TCRP Report 90 Bus Rapid Transit Vol 2:
Implementation Guidelines, 2003
The Parties also acknowledge the following industry documents that provide further guidance for BRT Operations:
American Public Transit Association, Bus Rapid Transit Service Design and Operations - APTA BTS-BRT-RP-004-10, Rev 1, 2020
American Public Transit Association, BRT Branding, Imaging and Marketing – APTA BTS-BRT-RP-001-10, Rev. 1 2020
The Parties also acknowledge the following industry document that provides guidance for BRT facilities design:
American Public Transit Association, Designing Bus Rapid Transit Running Ways – APTA BTS-BRT-RP-003-10, Rev. 1, 2020
Speeds: The minimum average scheduled speed for CVX shall be not less than 30 mph. The minimum average scheduled speed for Mooney BRT shall be not less than 20 mph.
7. Initial Service Plan. Appendix A identifies routes, stations and stops, timetables and internal bus assignments for the proposed service. Visalia Transit shall provide CVX service in substantial alignment with Appendix A, and Visalia Transit and TCRTA shall partner to provide substantial alignment with the proposed Mooney BRT service.
8. Periodic Service Adjustments. The Parties anticipate and accept that periodic service adjustments may be required for the Regional Express Transit Service and agree to work cooperatively to address those adjustments within the overall vision and guidance for the services.
9. On-Board Technology. On-board technology – including but not limited to Wi-Fi, automatic vehicle location (AVL), automatic passenger counting (APC), and traffic signal priority (TSP) – will be critical for a positive customer experience, the smooth operation of the system, and quick and accurate performance reporting.
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Transit and TCRTA shall ensure such equipment and on-board technology systems are maintained and useful. Failure to maintain these systems i s su bject to the provisions of Section 13.
10. Quarterly and Annual Service Reviews. The Parties agree to a quarterly operational review of service, cost and ridership, as well as an annual budgetary review to be presented to TCAG. These reviews will all ow performance to be assessed and the system recalibrated as necessary as the needs arise. City will also provide input into various phases of the project related to CVX and Mooney BRT service, such as the Branding and Marketing program and capital project workstreams. It is anticipated that this input can be delivered through both the existing meeting attendance and ad hoc meetings as required.
11. Service Changes. Based on the annual review results and demand for Regional Express Transit Services outlined in the original or revised Appendix A, City reserves the right to flexibly expand or contract service as necessary, subject to approval by TCAG (and Caltrans, if necessary) and in close coordination with TCRTA. Appendix B details the protocols for these changes.
12. Regulatory Compliance. At all times, City and TCRTA (as transit operators), agree to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations, including those pertaining to motor carrier operation and bus transportation.
13. Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance. City and TCRTA shall maintain the vehicles in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedules and specifications and shall keep the exterior and interior of vehicles reasonably clean. All vehicles shall have fully functioning air conditioning and heating systems. The public portion of passenger stations and stops provided by City for the subject services shall also be kept reasonably clean by the C ity or its contractors. City and TCRTA warrant that all in-vehicle technology—including Wi-Fi, automatic vehicle location (AVL), automatic passenger counters (APC), and traffic signal priority (TSP) —shall be fully functioning. City warrants that all wayside vehicle electrical charging stations shall be fully operational. Transit operating personnel (drivers, supervisors, etc.) shall present a neat appearance and conduct themselves in a courteous, professional, and efficient manner. The Parties agree to collaboratively develop d etailed standards for v ehicle, technology, electrical and staff performance.
14. Fares and Subsidy Revenues: [TBD]
Fares
City and TCRTA will charge fares as follows:
CVX: Within Tulare County - Same as all local fares
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charged To Hanford – Tulare County local fares
doubled, rounded up; to the nearest 25 cents.
Mooney BRT Same as all local fares charged.
If there is a difference between the Visalia Transit local fare, and the TCRTA commuter fare, the lower fare will prevail.
Bulk purchase fares (i.e., college passes, etc) will be honored for all services and fare zones.
Fare collection
Fare collection will be automated – CVX and Mooney BRT will employ all -door boarding, proof -of-payment fare collection. Parties will determine process for “cash” payment; default will be vending on vehicles with a premium charge.
As a condition of the TIRCP grant, Visalia Transit and TCRTA must accept Cal- ITP fare payment processes.
Subsidy
Subject to the availability of funds therefor, TCAG commits to funding reasonable net operating e xpenses for the CVX and Mooney BRT services. Operating costs will be based on revenue vehicle hours multiplied by the average operator-wide fully allocated hourly cost of service (revenue vehicle hours) as budgeted; invoicing shall be quarterly . Fully allo cated hourly cost of revenue service has the same meaning as that reported in the National Transit Database reports. After required end-of-fiscal year audits, TCAG shall be credited for any expenses and payments in excess of the actual average hourly costs.
Fare revenue will be credited against TCAG’s contributions, including passenger fares, on-board advertising revenue (if any), and contributions from other public agencies including, but not limited to, other metropolitan transportation organizations, regional transportation planning agencies, congestion management agencies, county transportation authorities, and other public transportation operators such as the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority and the California High- Speed Rail Authority (or their ope rating contractors). Revenue generated from stations, stops, and terminals is not subject to TCAG revenue sharing.
Pursuant to Section 10 Annual Budget review, the audited hourly rates and service expended, along with other revenues received, will be repo rted and provided to TCAG by City and TCRTA.
15. Payments and Reporting. [TBD]
Payments [TBD]
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Reporting – Some performance details (passenger counts, missed trips, on -time performance, on -board technology, vehicle availability) will be collected automatically through connected-system technology or through other independent sources/techniques. Data can be shared in real time among the Parties and may be used to assess financial incentives/penalties. Reports detailing vehicle cleaning, customer satisfactio n, and staff performance shall be generated by City and/or TCRTA for consideration at the quarterly service reviews. Routine schedule changes will be updated in Visalia Transit/TCRTA ’s General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) information within 24 hours o f the implementation of the change to support the operation of a variety of external travel platforms.
16. Operator Incentives. City and TCRTA’s transit contractors will be subject to a range of performance standards against which they must report to TCRTA and TCAG to ensure the consistent delivery of high -quality transit services. Appendix C identifies a performance reporting schedule. TCAG will allow f inancial incentives payments to the contract operators for exceeding standards, while penalties may be assessed for failure to meet standards.
17. Staff. Each Party shall designate a principal contact person for that Party, who may be changed from time to time, and such other appropriate staff members and consultants to participate on such Party's behalf in activities undertaken pursuant to this MOU. The principal contact person for each Parly shall be responsible for coordinating meetings and other activities under this MOU with the principal contact person for the other Parties. Meetings shall occur as the principal contacts determine are necessary, and each Party shall make its expertise and resources reasonably available for activities under this MOU.
18. Notices. Any formal notice or other formal communication given under the terms of this MOU shall be in writing and shall be given personally, by electronic mail or by certified mail, postage prepaid and return receipt requested, Any notice shall be delivered or addressed to the parties at the physical addresses or electronic mail address set forth below or at such other address as shall be designated by notice in writing in accordance with the terms of this MOU. The date of receipt of the notice shall be the date of actual personal service or confirmed electronic transmission, or three days after the postmark on certified mail.
If notice is given to the TCAG:
If notice is given to TCRTA:
If notice is given to City:
19. Entire Agreement. This MOU incorporates the entire and exclusive agreement of the Parties with respect to the matters described herein and supersedes all prior negotiations and agreements (written, oral or otherwise) related thereto. 458
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This MOU may be amended (including without limitation to add new Parties) only in a writing executed by all of the Parties.
20. Termination. This MOU shall remain in effect unless terminated by the mutual written consent of the Parties, or upon 30 days written notice of termination delivered by one Party to the others that is not withdrawn prior to the specified termination date; provided, that upon terminati on by one Party, the remaining Parties may by mutual written agreement continue this MOU in effect as between the non -terminating Parties. No Party shall be liable to any other if it elects to terminate this MOU.
21. Assignment. No rights and duties of any of the Parties under this MOU may be assigned or delegated without the express prior written consent of all of the other Parties, and any attempt to assign or delegate such rights or duties without such consent shall be null and void.
SIGNATURES
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APPENDIX A
ROUTES AND SERVICE
TBD
Includes Route/Stops & Stations/Draft schedules (from CSched)
Includes both CVX and Mooney BRT (options for Mooney BRT).
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APPENDIX B
SERVICE CHANGE PROTOCOLS
TBD
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APPENDIX C
Performance reporting
Visalia Transit and TCRTA shall report performance standards as identified. These standards be assessed in quarterly service reviews.
On-time Performance – City and TCRTA shall be responsible for serving all scheduled stops on -time according to publicly p ublished schedules. A bus is considered on-time if it departs no more than 5 minutes after its scheduled departure time and does not depart earlier than scheduled. Buses may arrive early at terminals.
Missed/Canceled Trips – No operating assistance will b e credited or provided for the trips not operated, and increasing levels of penalties shall be assessed each quarter should more trips be missed or canceled.
Vehicle Cleaning/Maintenance – The contracted transit operators shall be responsible for keeping t he exterior and interior of the vehicles reasonably clean, with fully functioning air conditioning, heating, and reading lights. A complete bus cleaning schedule can be found in Schedule A.
Staff performance – On-board staff shall abide by standards set forth in Schedule A.
Customer Satisfaction – As part of the marketing task outlined in Schedule A, each quarter a passenger survey shall be conducted that asks a random sample of riders to rate their levels of satisfaction with the bus service. Results from a minimum number of passengers are compiled to produce Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) scores. CSI scores are compiled quarterly, and the Carrier will receive incentive payments for achieving target scores.
Ridership – Bus ridership shall be considered a metric for the success of the system.
Ridership shall be measured as a percentage of vehicle capacity occupied.
Occupancy targets shall increase over time as the system expands, and incentives shall be awarded for reaching base and stretch targets. The methodology for determining ridership targets is detailed in Section xx.
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Performance
Metric FOR DISCUSSION
Interagency Agreement
between King County
Metro & Sound Transit
National Railroad
Passenger Corporation
and the State of New
York
Joint Service Agreement
between NYSDOT and
Butler Motor Transit
On-time
performance
Buses depart no more than
5 minutes after their
scheduled departure time
and do not leave early
(early arrival at terminals is
allowed) Threshold: ≥ 95%
of all trips. Incentives
offered for low cumulative
delay minutes at the end of
each quarter (0–45 minutes,
46–120 minutes, 121–175
minutes).
≥85% of scheduled time
points completed up to 1
minute early and less than 5
minutes late
No penalty for arrivals < 5
minutes late, increasing
amounts for 6-10 mins
($200), 11-20 (400), and
21+ mins late ($1,000).
Delay reasons clearly
defined. Incentives awarded
for low monthly delay
minutes (0–45 minutes, 46–
120 minutes, 121–175
minutes).
Flat-rate penalty ($100) per
incident when >5% of
quarterly stops are missed
and/or arrived at 15
minutes past schedule or
less than 5 minutes before
connecting service.
Missed/can-
celled trips
≤0.1% of whole bus trips
not operated as percent of
total trips regardless of
reason.
≤0.1% whole bus trips not
operated as percent of total
trips regardless of reason
Flat-rate penalty ($2,000)
for any canceled or
suspended train.
Penalty assessed for more
than 1.2% of trips missed.
Higher penalties for 1.2%-
2.5% and 2.5%+. Penalty
amount based on current
mileage formula rate.
Vehicle
cleaning
Vehicles are kept clean by
strict adherence to vehicle
cleaning schedule.
Threshold: ≥ 95% of bus
trips are completed with
buses that have undergone
cleaning requirements (see
Section XX Schedule A).
≥90% completed interior
bus detailing; ≥95%
completed exterior bus
wash
N/A Flat-rate penalty per day
($200) when vehicle is not
cleaned to standard. Penalty
increases (to $500) for each
subsequent day.
Staff
performance
Full standards TBD. Flat-
rate penalty for each
violation of standards
($1,000). Additionally,
financial incentive
rewarded (amount TBD)
for incident-free quarters.
N/A Full standards detailed in
Service Standards Manual.
Flat-rate penalty for each
violation of standards
($1,000).
N/A
Customer
satisfaction
Incentive payments
awarded when ≥ 85% of
customers express
somewhat or very high
levels of satisfaction with
15 customer complaints per
100,000 boardings.
Base and stretch targets set
for satisfactory CSI scores.
Targets and incentives vary
for different routes.
Incentives for stretch
N/A
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service. Precise amounts
TBD.
targets 2x those for base
targets. Range from $184–
$7,828.
Use of Non-
Conforming
Vehicles
Penalty assessed when
more than 2.5% of trips are
made with non-conforming
vehicles.
N/A N/A Penalty assessed when
more than 2.5% of runs
made with non-conforming
vehicles. Penalty amount
based on # of miles run
with non-conforming buses.
Ridership City will monitor ridership
(at stop level). Target
capacity figures will be set
from observed ridership
levels and agreed upon in
writing. Incentive payments
will be made retroactively
based on demand that
exceeds the expected
growth rate
N/A N/A NA
On-board
technology
All on-board technology
(Wi-Fi, AVL, APC, TSP) is
fully functioning
Threshold: ≥ 98% of
operating hours. Precise
incentives TBD.
N/A N/A N/A
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Capital Infrastructure Delivery MOU
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
FOR CAPITAL INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY FOR THE
REGIONAL EXPRESS TRANSIT SERVICES
IN TULARE AND KINGS COUNTY
THIS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (the "MOU") is made and effective as of XXX X, XXXX, by and between the Tulare County Association of Governments, the City of Visalia, and the California Department of Transportation, each a "Party" and collectively the “parties,” with reference to the following facts:
A. The Tulare County Association of Governments (hereinafter “TCAG”) is a joint powers authority established under the laws of the State of California and is responsible for overall transportation planning and transportation funding in Tulare County; the City of Visalia (hereinafter “City”) a charter city and municipal corporation established under the laws of the State of California, and owner and manager of Visalia Transit; and the California Department of Transportation (hereinafter “Caltrans”) a State department established under the Government Code (Section 14000 etc) of the State of California, and is responsible for planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining California’s state highway system.
B. The Parties desire to cooperatively provide Regional Express Public Transit services within and without Tulare County, as specified herein.
C. Numerous planning studies to expand public transit services in Tulare County have been conducted over the last 20 years, with the most recent studies being the 2018 Cross Valley Corridor Plan and a follow-up 2024 Kings-Tulare Cross-Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan. The 2018 study identified a Huron-Lemoore-Hanford-Visalia-Lindsay-Porterville transportation corridor and envisioned rail transit service operating along existing railroad rights-of-way. The Phase 1 Operations Plan recommended incremental implementation of the 2018 study vision, with an initial bus service along the most active and viable portions of the Cross Valley Corridor. In addition, the 2024 State Rail Plan identifies and endorses an initial bus service along the Cross Valley Corridor to connect initially with San Joaquin Amtrak trains and eventually with high-speed rail trains at the Kings-Hanford Station.
D. The Phase 1 Operations Plan identified an initial Cross Valley Express (CVX) routing from NAS Lemoore to Lindsay via Lemoore, Hanford, Visalia and Farmersville. High quality service operated with high quality vehicles serving distinctive stations and stops were identified. Service frequency was recommended for every 30 minutes for about 16-18 hours daily.
E. During the capital funding process, TCAG chose to compete for capital funding to operate the initial high-quality CVX bus route from the Hanford Amtrak Station to Lindsay, via Visalia and Farmersville. In addition, TCAG included a request for capital funding for a proposed bus rapid transit (BRT) corridor operating between Visalia and Tulare via Mooney Boulevard (SR 63) with envisioned 15-minute service frequencies.
F. Caltrans has disseminated guidance on designing and integrating bus rapid transit services and improvements on Caltrans facilities. Caltrans BRT policy is identified in Director’s Policy Number DP-27-R1 (2013) and Deputy Directive DD-98-R1 (2013). In both documents, Caltrans acknowledges federal BRT definitions as follows:
“BRT can best be described as a combination of facility, systems, and vehicle investments that convert conventional bus services into a fixed-facility transit service, greatly increasing their efficiency and effectiveness to the end user,” and, 465
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BRT is a “flexible, rubber-tired form of rapid-transit mode that combines stations, vehicles, services, running ways, and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) elements into an integrated system with a strong positive identity.” In addition to the BRT guidance, Caltrans has also issued policy documents on “complete streets.” Director’s Policy Number DP-37 (2021) states that “all transportation projects funded or overseen by Caltrans will provide comfortable, convenient, and connected complete streets facilities for people walking, biking, and taking transit” unless an exception is documented and approved.
G. The State of California approved the TCAG funding request and capitalized the Cross Valley Corridor and the Mooney BRT (collectively the “Regional Express Transit Services” program) with a grant of $59.1 million from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP), Cycle 7 to TCAG as the initial project sponsor.
H. TCAG, City, and Caltrans anticipate requesting several changes to the TIRCP grant scope to allow for additional flexibility and accommodate unanticipated cost increases in delivering the program. These include deferring full service to Lindsay and initially providing CVX service from Farmersville to Hanford via Visalia, changes to the locations and scope of stops and stations, and more detailed plans for the Mooney BRT service.
I. The Parties anticipate that the initial CVX service as amended will provide about 75-80 daily vehicle hours of service and the BRT (operating at 15-minutes service frequencies) will also provide about 75-80 daily vehicle hours of service.
J. This MOU identifies the structure and methods to deliver the capital elements of the Regional Express Transit Services (hereinafter “the Project”). A corresponding MOU between TCAG, Tulare County Regional Transit Agency (hereinafter “TCRTA”), and the City identifies operational considerations.
THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth below and to implement the goals described above, the Parties agree as follows:
1. Purposes of MOU. The primary purposes of this MOU are to (i) facilitate a cooperative and ongoing working relationship among the Parties that will allow them to explore, study, evaluate and (to the extent the Parties agree) develop and implement mutually beneficial approaches and strategies for delivering the Project, ii) confirm a shared understanding of the Project scope, schedule, costs, and funding, and iii) identify the roles of each agency to deliver the Project.
2. Consistency with Grant Requirements and Policy. The Parties agree that the Project defined herein are consistent with and represent the implementation direction and guidance of the TCAG Board of Directors and State of California funding agencies. City shall coordinate any and all changes to the Project scope and schedule with TCAG, and TCAG shall coordinate any and all changes to the TIRCP Cycle 7 grant scope as the grant applicant.
3. Implementation. The Parties desire to initiate the CVX service as amended by August of 2028 and Mooney BRT service by August 2029.
4. Responsibilities of the Parties. The roles and responsibilities between the Parties is agreed as follows:
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a. City will i) be the Project delivery agency responsible for the design and construction of any and all capital infrastructure and improvements for the Regional Express Transit Services including Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)/Transit Signal Priority (TSPs) for the Mooney BRT service and TSP for Caltrans controlled traffic signals adjacent to SR 198, ii) public and community engagement as required for the delivery of the Project; and iii) with Visalia Transit, procure the Zero Emission Vehicles for the CVX Service.
b. Caltrans will i) review and issue of timely comments (within 30 days of receipt) on Project deliverables and approve design plans and construction on Caltrans-owned facilities, such as College of Sequoias stop that will facilitate transfers between the CVX and Mooney BRT services, and TSP along Mooney Boulevard and Caltrans controlled traffic signals adjacent to SR 198.
c. TCAG will i) lead special studies for bus stops at Industrial Park, College of Sequoias, and Mooney BRT, ii) secure environmental clearances in compliance with state and federal regulations, and produce a concept of operations (CONOPs) and basis of design for hand off to the City for design and construction, iii) provide Project oversight through the design and construction phases; iv) coordinate funding allocation requests with Caltrans and advocate for additional capital and operating funding as needed.
5. Project Scope. The Project requires design and construction of civil improvements along local streets and state routes including the design and construction of bus stops with shelters and passenger amenities such as seating and signage, curb modifications, sidewalk improvements, and traffic signal upgrades for transit signal priority, along with procurement of zero emission vehicles and electrical charging infrastructure. Appendix A provides an overview of the Project scope including routes, stations and stops for the CVX and Mooney BRT services. The Parties agree to deliver the Project in substantial alignment with Appendix A.
6. Zero Emission Vehicle Procurement. In accordance with California regulations, all Regional Express Transit Services shall be operated by zero-emission vehicles. The TIRCP Cycle 7 grant required the purchase of eight (8) double deck, low floor double deck buses designed for luggage storage on the lower level, fast boarding, not less than 50 seats and battery capacity of not less than 640kWh, including inspection, testing, delivery and minimum one-year warranty. However, the CVX as amended requires purchase of six (6) buses for the initial Hanford to Farmersville service. The procured vehicles shall be equipped with the following on-board technology – including but not limited to Wi-Fi, automatic vehicle location (AVL), automatic passenger counting (APC), and transit signal priority.
7. Project Schedule. Appendix B identifies the Project schedule with a CVX service start date of August 2028 and Mooney BRT service start date of August 2029. City shall deliver the Project in substantial alignment with the Project schedule. Anticipated changes to the design and construction contract award dates shall be coordinated with TCAG with at least 2- months’ prior notice for alignment with the state funding allocation process. City shall not incur design and construction costs prior to a written documentation from TCAG confirming an approved funding allocation for design and construction activities. Such costs if incurred without prior written approval from TCAG, may not be eligible for reimbursement.
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Regional Express Transit Services
Capital Infrastructure Delivery MOU
8. Quarterly Project Check-in Meetings. The Parties agree to establish a working group with representatives from each Party to provide oversight of the Project and ensure ongoing coordination throughout the Project delivery. The working group shall meet for quarterly Project check-in meetings to assess the progress of the Project and identify potential scope, schedule, and cost risks and opportunities. The Parties shall agree on risk mitigations and actions to minimize scope creep, delays, and cost overruns.
9. Design Review Process and Approvals. The City and Caltrans have elected to use a design- bid-build approach for the delivery of the Project. The Parties agree to provide all necessary information, materials, and feedback in a timely manner to support the design process. To facilitate the review process and approvals, the Parties shall each designate a Project Manager as the primary point of contact for design reviews and approvals. The Project Manager may be the Party representative in the Working Group. Reviews of design deliverables, bid packages, and submittals during construction shall be completed within 30 days of receipt.
10. Project Standards. The Parties shall agree to the Project Standards for design and construction of the Regional Express Transit Services as follows:
i. Speeds. The design and placement of TSPs shall support minimum average scheduled in- service speeds of not less than 30 mph for CVX service, and not less than 20 mph for Mooney BRT service.
ii. CVX Bus Stops and Civil Improvements. The Parties shall comply with all state and local design standards including but not limited to the following or latest versions:
a. California MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices), 2014 b. California Building Code (CBC) & ADA Standards, 2022 c. Caltrans Highway Capacity Manual, 2020
The Parties further agree to consider and incorporate guidance, standards, and industry best practices from the following resources, unless a finding of exception is made:
d. NACTO Urban Street Design Guide, 2013
e. NACTO Transit Street Design Guide, 2016
f. AC Transit, Transit-Supportive Design Guidelines, 2018 g. AC Transit Bus Stop Furniture Guidelines (2022)
iii. Mooney BRT Standards & Criteria. When identifying, developing and adopting specific service design and facility design criteria for the Regional Express Transit Services, the Parties shall incorporate guidance and standards from the following documents:
a. Caltrans, Bus Rapid Transit: A Handbook for Partner - 2007, page 7, Table 2 – Minimum Standard of “Intermediate Stage”
b. Federal Transit Administration, Characteristics of Bus Rapid Transit for Decision making, 2004, FTA-VA-26-7222-2004.1
c. Transportation Research Board, TCRP Report 90 Bus Rapid Transit Vol 2:
Implementation Guidelines, 2003
The Parties also acknowledge the following industry documents that provide further guidance for BRT Operations and facilities design:
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d. American Public Transit Association, Bus Rapid Transit Service Design and Operations - APTA BTS-BRT-RP-004-10, Rev 1, 2020
e. American Public Transit Association, BRT Branding, Imaging and Marketing – APTA BTS-BRT-RP-001-10, Rev. 1 2020
f. American Public Transit Association, Designing Bus Rapid Transit Running Ways – APTA BTS-BRT-RP-003-10, Rev. 1, 2020
11. Regulatory Compliance. At all times, City and Caltrans agree to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations, including compliance with CEQA and NEPA exemption documentation and all regulations pertaining to design and construction of capital projects in public right-of-way.
12. Project Cost and Funds Allocation. The Project costs and funds are allocated to each Party as follows:
Item Cost* Party
EV Infrastructure (Visalia
Maintenance Facility) $ 3,654,106 City
EV Infrastructure (Farmersville)
$ 3,672,848
City (under permit or
agreement with City of
Farmersville)
EV Infrastructure (Tulare)
$ 2,156,109
City (under permit or
agreement with City of Tulare)
CVX ZEB Procurement (6) $ 18,270,532 City
Industrial Park Station $ 5,440,028 City
Rd 92 - from Doe Ave to
Goshen Ave $ 1,758,058 City
CVX Bus stops (except listed
above) $ 5,323,930 City
CVX ITS/TSPs (27) $ 4,295,632 City
Mooney BRT ITS/TSPs
(12)/design reviews/construction
oversight
$ 3,184,514
City
Mooney BRT Bus Stops (8) $ 2,469,276 City
Special Studies/ConOps/Basis of
Design/ Oversight $ 2,000,000 TCAG
TOTAL $ 52,225,032
*Includes construction, design fees, escalation, and other soft costs
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Therefore, the City of Visalia will be allocated a funding of Party Fee Allocation ($ millions)
City $50,225,032
TCAG $2,000,000
13. Capital Reimbursements. The Parties agreed to establish a process for reimbursing the costs associated with the design and implementation of the Project. The following terms shall apply:
a. TCAG shall reimburse City for all eligible costs incurred in fulfilment of responsibilities defined in Item 4a of this MOU.
b. Eligible costs shall include project/construction management, design fees, construction costs, TSP procurement, zero emission vehicle procurement, electric charging infrastructure, installation, commissioning, and testing. c. Reimbursement shall be made upon the receipt and approval of invoices submitted by the City. Invoices must include detailed documentation of costs incurred, including receipts, labor hours, and materials used.
d. Any changes to the agreed-upon scope of work that may result in additional costs must be documented in writing and approved by TCAG before such costs are incurred.
14. Invoicing Procedures. City shall submit invoices to TCAG on a monthly basis for reimbursement of eligible costs.
a. Each invoice shall include the following:
i. A summary of activities performed.
ii. Itemized costs with supporting documentation.
iii. Reference to the relevant agreement or work order. b. TCAG shall review and approve, or dispute submitted invoices within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt. In case of a dispute, TCAG will provide City with a detailed explanation of the discrepancies and work collaboratively to resolve them. c. Upon approval, TCAG shall process payment to City within forty-five (45) calendar days of invoice approval.
d. Both parties agree to maintain transparent records of all financial transactions and supporting documentation for audit purposes. Records shall be retained for a minimum of five (5) years following the completion of the project or as required by applicable laws.
15. Notices. Any formal notice or other formal communication given under the terms of this MOU shall be in writing and shall be given personally, by electronic mail or by certified mail, postage prepaid and return receipt requested, Any notice shall be delivered or addressed to the parties at the physical addresses or electronic mail address set forth below or at such other address as shall be designated by notice in writing in accordance with the terms of this MOU. The date of receipt of the notice shall be the date of actual personal service or confirmed electronic transmission, or three days after the postmark on certified mail.
If notice is given to the TCAG:
If notice is given to City:
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If notice is given to Caltrans:
16. Entire Agreement. This MOU incorporates the entire and exclusive agreement of the Parties with respect to the matters described herein and supersedes all prior negotiations and agreements (written, oral or otherwise) related thereto. This MOU may be amended (including without limitation to add new Parties) only in a writing executed by all of the Parties.
17. Termination. This MOU shall remain in effect unless terminated by the mutual written consent of the Parties, or upon 30 days written notice of termination delivered by one Party to the others that is not withdrawn prior to the specified termination date; provided, that upon termination by one Party, the remaining Parties may by mutual written agreement continue this MOU in effect as between the non-terminating Parties. No Party shall be liable to any other if it elects to terminate this MOU.
18. Assignment. No rights and duties of any of the Parties under this MOU may be assigned or delegated without the express prior written consent of all of the other Parties, and any attemp t to assign or delegate such rights or duties without such consent shall be null and void.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, and in acknowledgement that the Parties hereto have read and understand each and every provision hereof, the parties have caused this MOU to be effective from the date of its last signature.
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TULARE COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS
By: _______________________________
Its: _______________________________
Date: ______________________________
CITY OF VISALIA
By: _______________________________
Its: _______________________________
Date: ______________________________
CALTRANS
By: _______________________________
Its: _______________________________
Date: ______________________________
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APPENDIX A: PROJECT SCOPE
Project Title: Regional Express Transit Services Capital Infrastructure Improvements Project Location: CVX improvements in City of Visalia and City of Farmersville; Mooney BRT improvements in City of Visalia and City of Tulare, along Mooney Blvd (SR 63) Route Map (see following pages for full page maps):
Figure 1: CVX and Mooney BRT - Systemwide Map
Project Description:
The Cross Valley Express program delivers the pilot phase of the overall Phase 1 Cross Valley Corridor program. Ultimately at full buildout, electric buses will operate from NAS Lemoore to Lindsay via Hanford, the Kings-Tulare HSR Station, and Visalia. In the initial pilot, service will operate from Amtrak Hanford to Farmersville at high frequencies with quality passenger facilities and vehicles. This service will be supplemented and fed by a BRT route operating from the Tulare Transit Center via SR 63 and connecting with Cross Valley Express core service near College of the Sequoias and then continuing to Visalia Transit Center.
This Project is for the design and construction of the capital improvements associated with the Cross Valley Express, including procurement of six (6) zero-emission buses, electrical charging equipment and electrical infrastructure at the Visalia and Farmersville terminals, transit passenger facilities including 14 shelters and street improvements and a multi-modal station/hub at Industrial Park and a bus stop along Rd 92 from Doe to Goshen Avenue, intelligent transportation system (ITS) and transit priority investments, along with program management services required to deliver the Project. In addition, this Project includes the design and construction of the capital improvements associated with the Mooney BRT service including the design and installation of eight (8) bus stops and 12 ITS/TSPs .
General Description of Services: the Project scope is organized into the following major tasks and subtasks:
1. Task 1: Program Management and Project Controls
2. Task 2: Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E)
3. Task 3: Construction
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4. Task 4: Bus Procurement
This project is divided into the following major tasks and subtasks, as follows:
Task 1: Program Management and Project Controls
Various program management and project controls work is required for the successful implementation of the Project. Each Party to the MOU is responsible for management of the overall scope, budget and schedule, development, execution of interagency agreements, compliance with environmental clearances, and development of design solicitations and management of those contracts, and management of the bus purchases per the responsibilities described in this MOU.
These work items are detailed as follows:
a. Establish financial and project management controls and systems including submission of invoices to TCAG for reimbursement as described in this MOU. b. Identify environmental clearance requirements and provide documentation – Most of the project will be statutorily exempt from CEQA and likely categorically excluded from NEPA and these will need to be documented and filed by the Lead Agency. c. Design Contracts Procurement – The City will develop and issue design contracts that will deliver plans, specifications and estimates for the Project per the responsibilities established in this MOU.
d. Bus Purchase Coordination – City with Visalia Transit will identify an appropriate purchase agreement/procurement schedule purchase of the identified six battery-electric CVX buses – this may be the California DGS schedule or a similar schedule. This will include specialized requirements for the CVX route, inspections and testing. e. Construction Procurement and Management – The City will procure construction services and provide construction management or oversight for the capital improvements per the responsibilities established in this MOU.
f. Quarterly Project Check-in meetings – Included in this task is establishment of a working group by the Parties and participation in quarterly Project check-in meetings as described in this MOU.
Task 2: Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E)
This task anticipates that one or more design consultants are engaged under the direction of City for design services. The design consultants will deliver the conceptual, schematic and final design documents for the improvements, and will be available to assist in construction administration:
Task 2.1: ITS Elements – Transit Priority Signals/ITS and System Integration This design element validates the overall scope of the ITS system, develops schematic and detailed design, includes an overall Concept of Operations, and then supervises the installation and commissioning of the ITS and TPS system. City is responsible for the TSP/ITS for both CVX and Mooney BRT services. Twelve (12) TSPs are anticipated along the Mooney BRT with potential replacement of five (5) signal heads. Twenty-seven (27) TSPs are anticipated for the CVX route, with potential replacement twelve (12) signal heads and a new traffic light.
Task 2.2: Electrical Charging Facilities and Utility Coordination Starting with identifying available utility capacity, this task includes energy analysis (including availability and need for distributed energy resources), identification and location of bus charging infrastructure and then integrated design, permitting, and approvals for the charging equipment and inspection of installation and commissioning. It is anticipated that 12 fast chargers will need to be 474
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installed at the City of Visalia Transit Maintenance and Operations Facility. City is responsible for this task as established in this MOU.
Task 2.3: Civil Improvements – Curbs, Sidewalks, Shelters In coordination with ITS/TSP design, this engineering design work provides for new shelters and associated improvements at 14 locations including College of Sequoias for the CVX service, and 8 bus stop locations for the BRT service. Included are designs for curbside shelters with a minimum of longitudinal coverage of 35 feet, flatwork to ensure property waiting conditions, provision for real time information and other static wayfinding, street restriping as necessary, and provisions for disabled access.
Bus Stops will feature paved passenger waiting areas not less than 50 feet in length and not less than 10 feet in width and a curb of at least 6 inches (unless sidewalk dimensions do not allow this width) within the main corridor, allowing for less intensive designs at the extremities of the route.
The default is a shelter that provides climate – especially sun – protection for not less than 10 waiting passengers. A formal design exception will be developed for locations where adequate shelters cannot be physically or safely provided. Where appropriate, stops will be provided in existing transit centers. Stops at existing transit centers and transfer stations shall be equipped with video surveillance systems. All bus stops will have passenger information displays with static signage at a minimum, be lighted, and be designed for safety and security. Bus stops will be located – where feasible – at the location of the future rail service and designs will be developed to reuse as many facilities and investments as practical.
The preliminary Industrial Park Concept and to be further studied and developed by TCAG is shown below. In addition to the Industrial Park stop, the Project includes a bus stop at Goshen Avenue and Road 92, with pedestrian improvements along Road 92 to connect to the Doe Center.
Figure 2: Industrial Park Station – Concept sketch
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Figure 3: Road 92 Bus Stop and Pedestrian Improvements - Concept Sketch College of Sequoias is anticipated to be a transfer station between CVX and Mooney BRT services.
As such further studies will be conducted by TCAG to establish the concept for review and input by City and Caltrans prior to design. On concept approval, City will progress the Industrial Park Concept and College of Sequoias to progress through design.
Design will progress from conceptual to schematic to final design and designer will coordinate with project management team on obtaining right-of-way owners approval for improvements and any necessary permits. Construction administration will also be provided by designer.
Task 3: Construction
Construction is anticipated for the following program elements:
Purchase, delivery and installation of ITS and TSP systems, along with any coordination with the traffic control system.
Task 3.1: Electrical Charging Facilities and Utility Coordination Purchase, delivery and installation of transit electrical charging equipment at the City of Visalia Transit Maintenance and Operations Facility includes any required utility connections and utility improvements, “fast-charge” electrical charging equipment designed specifically for transit buses, and any other required electrical equipment and gear, including battery back-up and other redundant equipment to ensure reliable operations
Task 3.2: Civil Improvements – Curbs, Sidewalks, Shelters Construction of sidewalks, curbs, gutters, landscape, lighting and communications equipment along with the purchase, delivery and installation of high-quality, long-life transit shelters (minimum of 35 feet in length) at the bus stop/station locations. Shelter purchase may proceed in advance of general contractor selection due to potential supply chain lead times.
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Task 4: Bus Procurement
Delivery of six (6) double deck, low floor double deck buses designed for luggage storage on lower level, fast boarding, not less than 50 seats and battery capacity of not less than 640kWh. Includes inspection, testing, delivery and minimum one-year warranty.
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Figure 4: CVX and Mooney BRT - Systemwide Map (full page)
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Figure 5: CVX and Mooney BRT - Visalia Section Map
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Figure 6: CVX and Mooney BRT - Industrial Park Section
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Figure 7: Mooney BRT - Tulare Section
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APPENDIX B: PROJECT SCHEDULE
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Visalia Transit Center
Farmersville
Transit Center
Lindsay Transit Center
Goshen & Plaza Goshen & Akers
Akers & Mineral King Ave.
Akers & Noble Ave.
Amtrak
Hanford Transit
Center
Visalia Mall
Mooney Blvd. & Caldwell Ave.
Mooney Blvd. & Visalia Pkwy.
Prosperity Ave. & SR. 63
Tulare
Transit
Center
College of the
Sequoias
T
T
T
T
T
8 miles0 4
T Transit CenterTransit Center
Mooney BRT Bus StopsMooney BRT Bus Stops
SouthboundSouthbound NorthboundNorthbound
Cross Valley Express (CVX) Bus StopsCross Valley Express (CVX) Bus Stops TransitTransit
Transit Signal Priority LocationsTransit Signal Priority Locations EastboundEastbound WestboundWestbound
Mooney BRT Mooney BRT CVXCVX
KARTKART VisaliaVisalia TCRTATCRTA CA HSRCA HSR AmtrakAmtrak Hanford (Deferred)Hanford (Deferred)
T Transit CenterTransit Center
Cross Valley Express (CVX)Cross Valley Express (CVX)
Mooney BRT Mooney BRT
SouthboundSouthbound NorthboundNorthbound
Future Extension To Lindsay (Deferred)Future Extension To Lindsay (Deferred)EastboundEastbound WestboundWestbound LegendLegend
VISALIA
GOSHEN
FARMERSVILLE EXETER
TULARE LINDSAY
HANFORD
137
198
63 198198
198
99 65
CVX and Mooney BRT - Systemwide map
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REGIONAL EXPRESS
TRANSIT SERVICE
Presented by:
Tulare County Association of
Governments and Visalia Transit
487
REGIONAL EXPRESS
TRANSIT SERVICE
Cross Valley Corridor
History
2016: TCAG Board of Governors direct Planning Study
2018: Cross Valley Corridor Plan
* Study connectivity and mobility improvements to:
1) Increase transit service efficiency
2) Promote developments that support use of transit
3) Encourage revitalization and economic development
4) Facilitate growth in support of the High-Speed Rail (HSR) system 488
Phased approach to build ridership
base for future rail service between
Tulare and Kings Counties
Proposed 75-mile high-frequency
regional transit corridor linking cities
east to west across the Central Valley
using the historic San Joaquin Valley
Railroad corridor
2018 Cross Valley Corridor Plan
489
Cross Valley Corridor Plan Map
490
Phased service between NAS Lemoore and City of Lindsay
Initial service between Farmersville Transit Center and NAS Lemoore
Route Details
30-minute frequencies operating from 5:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M. One-way run times of 120-minutes
New transit centers in the cities of Exeter, Farmersville, Hanford and Lindsay
New transfer station in the Visalia Industrial Park
Zero-emission vehicles (battery-electric or hydrogen fuel cell) 2024 Cross Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan
491
Cross Valley Corridor Plan Map
492
Phase 1A (2024)
Current Kings Area Regional Transit (KART) service from Hanford Amtrak Station to Visalia Transit Center (8 trips per day; Stops at COS, Kaweah Health and Visalia Transit Center)
Phase 1B (2025)
KART service from Hanford Amtrak Station to Visalia Transit Center (30-minute intervals; Stops at COS, Kaweah Health and Visalia Transit Center) Phase 1C (2028)
Cross Valley Express (CVX) service between Hanford and Farmersville, to extend to NAS Lemoore (30-minute intervals; 14 stops)
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service between Tulare Transit Center and Visalia Transit Center on Mooney Boulevard (15-minute intervals)
2024 Cross Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan
493
Capital Infrastructure
Transit terminals and charging infrastructure
Transit stop facilities, including shelters, street
improvements and wayfinding
Transit signal priority (TSP) and intelligent transportation systems (ITS)
Zero-emission vehicles (battery-electric and/or
hydrogen fuel cell)
2024 Cross Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan
494
Financial Plan
Estimated $70 million in capital infrastructure
• $49.1 million in design and construction
• $18.8 million in zero-emission vehicles
Estimated $7 million annual operating cost at full-
service buildout
Funding sources:
• TCAG (State SB 125 transit and SB 743 mitigation)
• San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (Amtrak)
• BRT and CVX fare revenue
• Other State and Federal transit funding
2024 Cross Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan
495
Funding Sources
State Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) Grant (2022) • $10.28 million in State transit grant funds (FY 22/23 to FY 31/32) * $5.88 million for eighteen (18) zero-emission vehicles (buses/vans) * $4.4 million for new Lindsay Transit Center
State Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) Grant (2024) • $59.1 million in State transit grant funds (FY 24/25 to FY 33/34) * $44.7 million for capital and infrastructure improvements * $14.4 million for eight (8) zero-emission transit vehicles (buses) TCAG State SB 125 Transit and SB 743 Mitigation Funds • $8.5 million for operations
2024 Cross Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan
496
Priority Capital Infrastructure Improvements: $49.1 million Signal Priority/Street Improvements: $12.41 million
Construction Contractor: $9.46 million
Caltrans and City Indirect Costs: $7.58 million
Transit Stop Facility Improvements: $5.72 million
EV and Charging Infrastructure: $5.3 million
New Lindsay Transit Center: $4.4 million
Design and Engineering: $4.23 million
2024 Cross Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan
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CVX Signal-Priortization Exhibit
498
Implementation
Cooperative Agreement (Caltrans and City)
• City as project lead with Caltrans oversight
Memorandums of Understanding
• Capital Development (City and TCAG)
• Operations (City, TCAG and TCRTA)
• State Grant Funding (Caltrans, City and TCAG)
• TCAG Funding (City of Visalia and TCAG)
Design, engineering and construction of capital
improvements (Priority)
Zero-emission vehicle procurement
2024 Cross Valley Corridor Phase 1 Operations Plan
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California State Transportation Agency
California Department of Transportation
Tulare County Association of Governments
Visalia Transit
Tulare County Regional Transit Agency
Kings Area Rural Transit
San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (Amtrak)
California High-Speed Rail Authority
Regional Express Transit Partner Agencies
500
Staff Recommendation:
Approve the City’s participation in the Regional Express Transit Project and serving as the Project lead and
primary services operator;
Approve the draft Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the Caltrans Master Agreement and Program
Supplement for TIRCP funding; and
Authorize the City Manager to draft necessary
agreements with Caltrans, TCAG and TCRTA with approval
to form by the City Attorney.
Regional Express Transit Service
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Questions or Comments
502
Thank
You!
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Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0431 Agenda Date: 11/3/2025 Agenda #: 1.
Agenda Item Wording:
Upcoming City Council Meetings
Monday, November 17, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m. at 707 W. Acequia Tuesday, December 2, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m. at 707 W. Acequia Note: Meeting dates and times are subject to change, check posted agenda for correct details. In compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings contact 713-4512.
Written materials relating to an item on this agenda submitted to the Council after distribution of the agenda are available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk, 220 N. Santa Fe Street, Visalia CA 93292, during normal business hours.
Visalia City Council Printed on 10/27/2025Page 1 of 1
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