pages: CityCouncil/2022-04-05.pdf, 16
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CityCouncil | 2022-04-05 | 16 | affirmative; stated the City should not be paying so much per ride. Councilmember Daysog stated Council has received a lot of correspondence from WEL; WEL is located on Island Drive next to the Harbor Bay Landing shopping center; noted the shuttle only stops near the WEL location on Wednesdays every 30 minutes; residents of WEL would take AC Transit Line 21 if they switch to riding the bus, which is available daily every 30 minutes; Line 21 not stopping directly at WEL could be a concern; the City could work with AC Transit on the stop location; staff is trying to provide more robust service with AC Transit; WEL residents could find a less occupied bus positive; the Line 21 route does not go directly into the South Shore shopping center; however, the route comes close and is similar to the route the shuttle takes. Councilmember Knox White expressed support for the staff recommendation; stated a lot of work has been put into the matter of changing services and deep engagement has occurred; the proposed program will likely serve many more people; the concern about stopping shuttle service is understandable; it is possible that some people will not see the same level of service; however, many people cannot use the services due to the single-day per week schedule; discussed people's support for the shuttle, AC Transit scheduling and an Inter-Agency Liaison Committee (ILC) meeting presentation; expressed support for the program and continued engagement with WEL residents to ensure the City is meeting needs; stated the City can discuss ways to have Line 21 better serve the WEL residents; the possibility can be raised at the next ILC meeting; the shuttle ridership is not a lot; it is unreasonable to think that the City will wait until all riders make the change and stop using the free shuttle while it is still operates; staff has a solid transition plan as the City moves from one service to another. Councilmember Knox White moved approval of the staff recommendation. Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Daysog stated hopefully, AC Transit will work with the City on moving the current Line 21 bus stop on Mecartney Road closer to Safeway. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the matter can be brought to the next ILC meeting. Vice Mayor Vella stated changes and transitions are always difficult; concurred with Councilmember Knox White's comments; stated that she appreciates the advocacy from both Councilmembers Knox White and Daysog at the ILC meetings around increasing access and accessibility to transit stops to make the new system work for everyone impacted; urged people to continue ensuring the system works for those most in need; discussed her grandmother using AC Transit and the shuttle; stated the options provided lifelines and allowed for socialization and independence; the shuttle is appreciated; however, there has been amazing expansion of AC Transit lines; it is important to invest and maintain public transit; expressed support for a cohesive, subsidized system providing benefits to a broad pool of people; stated the goal is to make public transit work for everyone; expressed support for the staff recommendation. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she is impressed with the care and thoughtfulness of the personal service teaching seniors how to ride public transportation; discussed her use of Line 51; stated many people with wheelchairs or physical limitations utilize the bus route; expressed support for the compassionate AC Transit drivers helping seniors and people with disabilities. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council April 5, 2022 | CityCouncil/2022-04-05.pdf |