QuoteJTA to make Skyway transit free
Move comes after problems with riders not paying fares
Published On: Jan 19 2012 05:06:03 PM EST Updated On: Jan 19 2012 09:03:30 PM EST
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JTA to make Skyway transit free
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -
For months, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority has said it's working hard to fix broken gates and other malfunctioning equipment at Skyway terminals.
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But as Channel 4 investigators have recently learned, rather than fixing the problems that would force riders to pay up, JTA will offer free rides.
Time and time again, Channel 4 has shown passengers taking advantage of the faulty equipment as a way to avoid fees. But even some of those who tried to pay couldn't.
At the end of this month, the turnstiles and gates will no longer be needed. That's when the Skyway will be going fare free for 90 days as a test to see how many people will ride it for free. It's also a result of Channel 4 showing people who just squeezed by the turnstiles, avoiding fares all together.
Channel 4's Jim Piggott asked JTA if that's why it made the decision to not charge riders in the future.
"That is one factor that we will be considering," spokeswoman Shannon Eller said. "Any decision of the Skyway and a fare free Skyway will be driven by the data."
JTA will be counting the number of free riders and will then decide whether to keep the Skyway free. One factor in all of this is change in the bus system, which will be going to new bus passes, and the Skyway won't be able to read the new cards for a while.
As Channel 4's investigation has shown, there have been problems with maintaining the Skyway gates. They are costly to fix, parts are not available and they break down often.
Most riders were not surprised to hear about future free rides, like one man who said he always thought they were free.
"Might as well. It's been free for as long as I know it," he said.
But others say it's not fair. They say bus fares have increased, so why not make them free.
"You want to make this free, then why they got to be sky high for the people who ride the bus, because this is only downtown," rider Charika Pugh said of the Skyway.
There is also concern that making the Skyway free will lead to transients using it as a way to get out of the weather. JTA says it is making plans for that.
"You will see an increase in security on the Skyway as we move into these 90 days," Eller said.
The 90 day trial is a good idea. The transient use will be the biggest issue.
Quote from: jerry cornwell on January 20, 2012, 12:39:43 AM
The 90 day trial is a good idea. The transient use will be the biggest issue.
They already do that. But not so frequently that it takes up space from other passengers.
I am glad that it will be free, but don't expect it will lead to a significant increase in riders. Because, as everyone knows, it doesn't connect to a neighborhood of potential riders on either end.
Right now the people who regularly use it are those transferring from a bus (and that won't change just because it is free) and people like me who simply want to ride it because they like it and want to support it (which I believe may be a handful of people in Jacksonville).
If JTA is reading, I know this may sound preposterous, but it needs to be expanded south into San Marco across the railroad tracks. Then you will start to pick up more riders.
Quote from: jerry cornwell on January 20, 2012, 12:39:43 AM
The 90 day trial is a good idea. The transient use will be the biggest issue.
i sure wish everbank were here online ready to take advantage of the free 90days!
soon.
the skyway almost goes somewhere ...
if the maintenance yard in Brooklyn had even a temporary park-n-ride lot,
and if the skyway reached the SanMarco King's Ave garage via inexpensive covered walkway,
the two easy low cost fixes would do WONDERS! !
QuoteBecause, as everyone knows, it doesn't connect to a neighborhood of potential riders on either end.
It connects my neighborhood (DT) to San Marco.
Quote from: urbanlibertarian on January 20, 2012, 07:29:49 AM
QuoteBecause, as everyone knows, it doesn't connect to a neighborhood of potential riders on either end.
It connects my neighborhood (DT) to San Marco.
You really consider that area San Marco? I guess....once you walk over the train tracks, pass a hospital, pass all that traffic, Sherwoods, AA, until you're even at Aix...and then you have another mile til you even get to 'San Marco' shops..
Quote from: ricker on January 20, 2012, 07:18:48 AM
Quote from: jerry cornwell on January 20, 2012, 12:39:43 AM
The 90 day trial is a good idea. The transient use will be the biggest issue.
and if the skyway reached the SanMarco King's Ave garage via inexpensive covered walkway,
the two easy low cost fixes would do WONDERS! !
There is a walkway that connects the Kings Ave garage to a skyway Station. I believe it is covered too.
This is a really good move. I wonder what JTA's metrics are for judging if the trial is a success?
Quote from: ben says on January 20, 2012, 07:44:37 AM
Quote from: urbanlibertarian on January 20, 2012, 07:29:49 AM
QuoteBecause, as everyone knows, it doesn't connect to a neighborhood of potential riders on either end.
It connects my neighborhood (DT) to San Marco.
You really consider that area San Marco? I guess....once you walk over the train tracks, pass a hospital, pass all that traffic, Sherwoods, AA, until you're even at Aix...and then you have another mile til you even get to 'San Marco' shops..
The current San Marco/Southbank stops aren't very near big population areas. In contrast, extending it to San Marco Square would put it within blocks of thousands of people.
A skywalk from San Marco Station, over the Acosta, to Baptist and Aetna would also help. As for attracting more riders by being free, I'd expect a small increase. However, I believe a free skyway could easily be fed thousands of extra riders by eliminating the duplicate bus routes in downtown. In other words, treat the skyway, Kings Avenue Station, Convention Center Station and Rosa Parks as one large transfer center.
Northside/Arlington buses go to Rosa Parks and then head back to serve their sections of town. Westside buses do the same at the convention center and Southside buses do the same at Kings Avenue Station. Those seeking transfers to other local routes then use the skyway to access each specific terminal. As BRT (enhanced bus service routes) come online, those and express buses should be the only ones making full cross town bus trips. I think a system retrofit similar to this will add tons of riders to the skyway and reduce annual O&M costs of JTA's entire transit system.
Quote from: Tacachale on January 20, 2012, 08:49:54 AM
Quote from: ben says on January 20, 2012, 07:44:37 AM
Quote from: urbanlibertarian on January 20, 2012, 07:29:49 AM
QuoteBecause, as everyone knows, it doesn't connect to a neighborhood of potential riders on either end.
It connects my neighborhood (DT) to San Marco.
You really consider that area San Marco? I guess....once you walk over the train tracks, pass a hospital, pass all that traffic, Sherwoods, AA, until you're even at Aix...and then you have another mile til you even get to 'San Marco' shops..
The current San Marco/Southbank stops aren't very near big population areas. In contrast, extending it to San Marco Square would put it within blocks of thousands of people.
I'm sure the San Marco preservation group will *love* that.
Quote from: thelakelander on January 20, 2012, 09:00:00 AM
Northside/Arlington buses go to Rosa Parks and then head back to serve their sections of town. Westside buses do the same at the convention center and Southside buses do the same at Kings Avenue Station. Those seeking transfers to other local routes then use the skyway to access each specific terminal. As BRT (enhanced bus service routes) come online, those and express buses should be the only ones making full cross town bus trips. I think a system retrofit similar to this will add tons of riders to the skyway and reduce annual O&M costs of JTA's entire transit system.
This is only the millionth time that you've copied and pasted this same statement. It's one you and I agree wholeheartedly on, but...... ::) ::) ::) JTA, SMFH
I think they would seriously consider such an extension as long as it paralleled the FEC tracks, terminating at-grade at Atlantic Boulevard. Such a corridor would place it within walking distance of San Marco Square and Hendricks Avenue.
QuoteIf JTA is reading, I know this may sound preposterous, but it needs to be expanded south into San Marco across the railroad tracks. Then you will start to pick up more riders.
Agreed. Problem is JTA doesn't care about transit- they're in the road-building business.
it's about darn time.
Quote from: JeffreyS on January 20, 2012, 08:14:24 AM
This is a really good move. I wonder what JTA's metrics are for judging if the trial is a success?
I know what mine are! Lets party on the SkyWay! Yes!
How about they build that Publix/Condo development in San Marco and put in an integrated skyway station! Problem is that nobody wants to look at skyway tracks.
I'm cool with it being free, if only so that they're not spending more money the machines than they could make with them. I don't expect there will be a huge increase in ridership for the various reasons already stated.
Quote from: acme54321 on January 20, 2012, 10:40:25 AM
How about they build that Publix/Condo development in San Marco and put in an integrated skyway station! Problem is that nobody wants to look at skyway tracks.
Drop them down to ground level once the skyway extension crosses the FEC and there won't be elevated tracks. However, this will require you to cross Atlantic on foot to access the proposed Publix site.
Wait a minute? The Skyway is losing over $7 million a year, much of it directly out of our tax dollars, and the solution is to let everyone ride for free? Give up on the $350,000 or so that you are actually taking in and just go ahead and subsidize that ourselves too? Even if ridership doubles (I suspect ridership numbers stay virtually the same), what does that accomplish if revenue goes down? I whole heartedly agree with everything Lake says about the potential benefits of a Skyway expansion, but realistically, with the terrible reputation and poor public opinion of the Skyway, I just don't see any situation in the next 10 years where the public is going to be ok with an expansion.
As a downtown advocate, I'm all for the Skyway, but as a taxpayer, this borders on indefensible.
Finally. If they just made the simple changes that have been suggested on this site at least 50 times, ridership would increase. A few extensions also make sense. One to 200 Riverside and one to San Marco.
Quote from: KenFSU on January 20, 2012, 11:25:09 AM
Wait a minute? The Skyway is losing over $7 million a year, much of it directly out of our tax dollars, and the solution is to let everyone ride for free? Give up on the $350,000 or so that you are actually taking in and just go ahead and subsidize that ourselves too? Even if ridership doubles (I suspect ridership numbers stay virtually the same), what does that accomplish if revenue goes down? I whole heartedly agree with everything Lake says about the potential benefits of a Skyway expansion, but realistically, with the terrible reputation and poor public opinion of the Skyway, I just don't see any situation in the next 10 years where the public is going to be ok with an expansion.
As a downtown advocate, I'm all for the Skyway, but as a taxpayer, this borders on indefensible.
^You'll spend a lot more money replacing the fare collection system than the amount of revenue it generates in a year. Also, the way the feds work, more riders equal more federal money for O&M. Thus the $350k collected annually really gets them nowhere. Perhaps, they should replace money lost by not charging fares by allowing train wrap advertising and leasing kiosk space at its overbuilt stations? Btw, I don't think the skyway loses $7 million a year.
Unless there is leftover money from the grant that paid for the STAR card system... where do you get the money to pay to replace the turnstile system that hasn't worked for years?
And the $7million figure isn't a cash loss(most of that is from depreciation expenses from the original cost of the system over 20 years ago).
Quote from: fieldafm on January 20, 2012, 11:45:22 AM
And the $7million figure isn't a cash loss(most of that is from depreciation expenses from the original cost of the system over 20 years ago).
It is my understanding that at least $5.5 million of that figure
is operating loss, absent of depreciation.
I have no idea where the money to fix the turnstiles should come from, but didn't JTA just say less than two months ago that they were in the process of fixing all turnstiles?
Public transit often loses money, it's a fact of life, but unless there are plans to expand the Skyway, sell advertising space, allow vendors to operate at stations, beef up security, and/or eventually fix the turnstiles so that the JTA can actually bring in
some revenue from the Skyway, it seems like they are just throwing their hands up in the air and giving up here.
What do you tell the bus riders -- those unfortunate Jacksonville citizens who depend on our awful bus system for their livelihood -- who recently faced
increased fares? Maybe the bus turnstiles can break too. God forbid anyone plan ahead and figure out how to pay for them if they were to break as well.
It's a fundamental problem city wide. We build these wonderful things -- the Skyway, Friendship Fountain, LED Lighting on the Mainstreet Bridge -- and as soon as something goes wrong and they need maintenance, we just throw up our hands and give up on them.
Quote from: thelakelander on January 20, 2012, 09:07:59 AM
I think they would seriously consider such an extension as long as it paralleled the FEC tracks, terminating at-grade at Atlantic Boulevard. Such a corridor would place it within walking distance of San Marco Square and Hendricks Avenue.
That is exactly what should happen. We (SMPS) are solidly behind this concept.
It does not lose money if a community wants transit they spend money providing transit. Transit is provided just like police security, roads, trash pickup ect. ect. The difference is transit often provides mitigation with some of it's operating costs in terms of a fare box. The fare box is used by some to try to convince people it is a for profit venture and therefor somehow it's success or failure is based on fares collected. Removing the fare is a great idea because it removes that dofus argument about whether or not transit "makes money" or worse "pays for itself". The Pays for itself argument is worse because they intentionally leave out every benefit of this service except fares collected to make the argument even though fares collected is never the reason people institute transit.
I think all transit should be free. It is a public service. The farebox recovery issue is a joke, no system recovers all their expenses at the farebox. LIRR is the closest that comes to doing it in the States. I also believe the JTA should allow the skyways cars to be wrapped and they should lease out space at the stations for vendors and also allow the open display of local art at all the stations. I also agree the San Marco extension makes the most sense.
Quote from: KenFSU on January 20, 2012, 11:25:09 AM
As a downtown advocate, I'm all for the Skyway, but as a taxpayer, this borders on indefensible.
You are right on both accounts so i hope, as a downtown advocate, you would choose the latter.
Especially since its free.
You make strong points in your last post.
Quote from: KenFSU on January 20, 2012, 12:19:36 PMIt's a fundamental problem city wide. We build these wonderful things -- the Skyway, Friendship Fountain, LED Lighting on the Mainstreet Bridge -- and as soon as something goes wrong and they need maintenance, we just throw up our hands and give up on them.
This is ABSOLUTELY one of Jacksonville's biggest problems - maintaining the stuff once it's installed. The response is always "there's not enough money." I shudder to think of what condition the beautifully redone Friendship Park will be in, ten years from now. Not to mention the Southbank Riverwalk.
It really sounds like JTA has given up on trying to fix the Skyway or keep people from jumping the turnstiles. I'm glad to see it - my wife and I take it over the bridge whenever we have any spare change, or whenever we feel brave enough to jump the gate - so now we won't feel guilty.
But it's not like we ever fight crowds to board the thing. What about making it 24 hours? Or at least expand the hours to later in the evening and weekends? Or is that too much money and I'm talking crazy talk?
Part of that problem is agencies (and even certain mayors) burning through the reserves and maintenance budgets that were in place. As much as we complain we're far too tolerant of people who can't manage a budget.
Imagine if it had a station in san marco then continued a mile or two east down atlantic/beach. Lots of riders there
JeffreyS, agree whole-heartedly. I've never understood why public transit is the only type of public service that people seem to get all worked up about when it "loses money."
Especially when the alternative (ie roads) "loses" so much more money!
Quote from: fsujax on January 20, 2012, 01:16:34 PM
I think all transit should be free. It is a public service. The farebox recovery issue is a joke, no system recovers all their expenses at the farebox. LIRR is the closest that comes to doing it in the States. I also believe the JTA should allow the skyways cars to be wrapped and they should lease out space at the stations for vendors and also allow the open display of local art at all the stations. I also agree the San Marco extension makes the most sense.
Well, at least the Skyway should be free. It's not like people are tripping over each other to get on it. I'm all about the advertising to cover some costs, and if the higher ridership gets more federal funds (like someone above mentioned I think), go for it with making it free.
yeah I really think the wrapping and kiosk idea is golden. It seems obvious, but..
Also they absolutely have to get these into residential neighborhoods, or I don't know if the lack of fee will matter much. I will tell you what. I would park in San Marco and take the ride over now in a second. I guess maybe it does matter. Not sure.
Every downtown hotel is linked to the convention center by the Skyway...part of a convention center tax? 50 cents a night or something for a downtown circulator tax? (yes, probably not much).
I always felt that skyway fare skipping gave Jacksonville a big city vibe. Watching people slide through the turnstiles made me feel like we were a city of innovation...our people won't let anything get in the way of their dreams and goals.
We should keep the fares just for the emotive qualities that come with living in a city with real public transportation.
Side note: mta in new York fines fare skippers 100 dollars when caught.
I'm confused. Is this a three month trial period or not? In this article, it appears it isn't.
http://jacksonville.com/news/transportation/2012-01-25/story/jta-skyway-rides-free-next-3-months-new-pay-system-implemented
I was thinking the same thing.
guess they changed their mind....that sort of thing never happens at JTA ;)
Quote from: thelakelander on January 20, 2012, 09:00:00 AM
A skywalk from San Marco Station, over the Acosta, to Baptist and Aetna would also help. As for attracting more riders by being free, I'd expect a small increase. However, I believe a free skyway could easily be fed thousands of extra riders by eliminating the duplicate bus routes in downtown. In other words, treat the skyway, Kings Avenue Station, Convention Center Station and Rosa Parks as one large transfer center.
Northside/Arlington buses go to Rosa Parks and then head back to serve their sections of town. Westside buses do the same at the convention center and Southside buses do the same at Kings Avenue Station. Those seeking transfers to other local routes then use the skyway to access each specific terminal. As BRT (enhanced bus service routes) come online, those and express buses should be the only ones making full cross town bus trips. I think a system retrofit similar to this will add tons of riders to the skyway and reduce annual O&M costs of JTA's entire transit system.
I totallu agree with this set up!!All buses dont need to go downtown. The terminal stations should Bus stations. JTA WOULD be so much faster if it was set up that way.
Don't forget the free transfers to go with the free skyway. Riders should be able to go from one end of the JTA service area to the other for just one one-way fare.
So is it still free??
yes till the end of April.
Quote from: Bativac on January 20, 2012, 01:30:19 PM
But it's not like we ever fight crowds to board the thing. What about making it 24 hours? Or at least expand the hours to later in the evening and weekends? Or is that too much money and I'm talking crazy talk?
(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4137/5443231303_3cd77eb4ce_z.jpg)
Actually a 18-24 hour schedule would greatly effect ridership. On occasion when there is an event downtown JTA keeps the monorail running until late in the evening, but how many more smaller events can you think of that found the Skyway a virtual ghost train? Extending the Skyway's schedule would also have the added benefit of a designated driver. Ridership increases would make the Skyway a REAL candidate for FTA grants and possible expansion.
The idea?
Extend the Skyways operation between the hours of 5 am and 11 pm at a minimum. Concurrent with the extended hours downtown shuttle buses (aka: PCT or Potato-Chip-Truck-Thinks-Its-A-Trolley) operating the same schedule would stretch the Skyways reach from Central/Hemming/Rosa Parks to cover everything east of Hogan all the way to the stadium/Arena/Metropolitan Park/AP Randolph-Jessie Street areas.
Keep it fare free to serve as a 'transfer train' downtown. Revenue would be captured by wrap advertising, platform advertising and Kiosk leases in the huge vacant spaces within the stations.
After a short trial period to help identify market hours, extended services would operate on call. A late night shuttle bus east side connector could operate Jitney style during these hours.
The 'Automated Skyway Express' actually needs at least two persons to operate it over at Skyway Central. Late night operation would require hiring and training a couple of two man night crews, likewise the shuttle bus/es would also need drivers.
Two sets of trains could be kept on the line, 'held out' just short of a station one on each bank of the river to cover the calls for service.
MEANWHILE:
(http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lnsfqsdTsk1qbulvo.jpg)
(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4151/5220737561_0d4db0213d_z.jpg)
The city should build the 'Skywalk' from San Marco Station to Aetna and Baptist Hospital, likewise covered bridges/covered walk connections into the Prudential Building, ATT, Omni, Riverplace etc. should come on line. These Skywalks/or surface covered walks would have the effect of making the Skyway a working part of these buildings.
If the mobility plan is ever put into action, a true San Marco station at the FEC RY and Atlantic Blvd would bring the Skyway into it's first true residential area, meaning it would now run from Someplace to Something. JTA should be at the forefront of pursuit of these expansions while we have a local congressman in place that 1. loves the Skyway, 2. Chairs the House Transportation Subcommittee. When the Overland Bridge I-95/Atlantic interchange is built and FEC rail comes on line, this station would be a game changer.
Another avenue to explore, one which a certain Mr. Khan should be very interested in, is an expansion through downtown to the stadium area. I would give a long look at a station near the Baseball Grounds and another north of the Arlington Expressway on A.P.Randolph, effectively giving the Skyway event day crowds, and introducing it to the next true residential area.
Lastly, I would rename the San Marco Station to prevent confusion with a possible expansion southward...
http://www.youtube.com/v/zKM8v0Vdasc?version=3&hl=en_US
PCT'S would be replaced when retired or sold in exchange for downtown ELECTRIC BUSES.
This would change the whole face of JTA... DREAM ON...
OCKLAWAHA
Winding your way down on Water Street
Light in your head and dead on your feet
Well another crazy day, you'll drink the night away
And forget about everything
This city desert makes you feel so cold
It's got so many people but it's got no soul
And it's taken you so long to find out you were wrong
When you thought it held everything
You used to think that it was so easy
You used to say that it was so easy
But you're tryin', you're tryin' now
Another year and then you'd be happy
Just one more year and then you'd be happy
But you're cryin', you're cryin' now
With Apologies to Gerry Rafferty....
Any recent word on:
1. Ridership numbers?
2. Likelihood of permanent no fare policy?
Quote from: Jdog on April 01, 2012, 04:46:16 PM
Any recent word on:
1. Ridership numbers?
2. Likelihood of permanent no fare policy?
I was just about to ask that.
Quote from: Ocklawaha on February 02, 2012, 09:43:06 PM
Quote from: Bativac on January 20, 2012, 01:30:19 PM
But it's not like we ever fight crowds to board the thing. What about making it 24 hours? Or at least expand the hours to later in the evening and weekends? Or is that too much money and I'm talking crazy talk?
(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4137/5443231303_3cd77eb4ce_z.jpg)
Actually a 18-24 hour schedule would greatly effect ridership. On occasion when there is an event downtown JTA keeps the monorail running until late in the evening, but how many more smaller events can you think of that found the Skyway a virtual ghost train? Extending the Skyway's schedule would also have the added benefit of a designated driver. Ridership increases would make the Skyway a REAL candidate for FTA grants and possible expansion.
The idea?
Extend the Skyways operation between the hours of 5 am and 11 pm at a minimum. Concurrent with the extended hours downtown shuttle buses (aka: PCT or Potato-Chip-Truck-Thinks-Its-A-Trolley) operating the same schedule would stretch the Skyways reach from Central/Hemming/Rosa Parks to cover everything east of Hogan all the way to the stadium/Arena/Metropolitan Park/AP Randolph-Jessie Street areas.
Keep it fare free to serve as a 'transfer train' downtown. Revenue would be captured by wrap advertising, platform advertising and Kiosk leases in the huge vacant spaces within the stations.
After a short trial period to help identify market hours, extended services would operate on call. A late night shuttle bus east side connector could operate Jitney style during these hours.
The 'Automated Skyway Express' actually needs at least two persons to operate it over at Skyway Central. Late night operation would require hiring and training a couple of two man night crews, likewise the shuttle bus/es would also need drivers.
Two sets of trains could be kept on the line, 'held out' just short of a station one on each bank of the river to cover the calls for service.
MEANWHILE:
(http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lnsfqsdTsk1qbulvo.jpg)
(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4151/5220737561_0d4db0213d_z.jpg)
The city should build the 'Skywalk' from San Marco Station to Aetna and Baptist Hospital, likewise covered bridges/covered walk connections into the Prudential Building, ATT, Omni, Riverplace etc. should come on line. These Skywalks/or surface covered walks would have the effect of making the Skyway a working part of these buildings.
If the mobility plan is ever put into action, a true San Marco station at the FEC RY and Atlantic Blvd would bring the Skyway into it's first true residential area, meaning it would now run from Someplace to Something. JTA should be at the forefront of pursuit of these expansions while we have a local congressman in place that 1. loves the Skyway, 2. Chairs the House Transportation Subcommittee. When the Overland Bridge I-95/Atlantic interchange is built and FEC rail comes on line, this station would be a game changer.
Another avenue to explore, one which a certain Mr. Khan should be very interested in, is an expansion through downtown to the stadium area. I would give a long look at a station near the Baseball Grounds and another north of the Arlington Expressway on A.P.Randolph, effectively giving the Skyway event day crowds, and introducing it to the next true residential area.
Lastly, I would rename the San Marco Station to prevent confusion with a possible expansion southward...
http://www.youtube.com/v/zKM8v0Vdasc?version=3&hl=en_US
PCT'S would be replaced when retired or sold in exchange for downtown ELECTRIC BUSES.
This would change the whole face of JTA... DREAM ON...
OCKLAWAHA
Winding your way down on Water Street
Light in your head and dead on your feet
Well another crazy day, you'll drink the night away
And forget about everything
This city desert makes you feel so cold
It's got so many people but it's got no soul
And it's taken you so long to find out you were wrong
When you thought it held everything
You used to think that it was so easy
You used to say that it was so easy
But you're tryin', you're tryin' now
Another year and then you'd be happy
Just one more year and then you'd be happy
But you're cryin', you're cryin' now
With Apologies to Gerry Rafferty....
+1 Great ideas!!
Ock, are all those photos you have from Jacksonville?
Quote from: Ocklawaha on February 02, 2012, 09:43:06 PM
Quote from: Bativac on January 20, 2012, 01:30:19 PM
But it's not like we ever fight crowds to board the thing. What about making it 24 hours? Or at least expand the hours to later in the evening and weekends? Or is that too much money and I'm talking crazy talk?
(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4137/5443231303_3cd77eb4ce_z.jpg)
Actually a 18-24 hour schedule would greatly effect ridership. On occasion when there is an event downtown JTA keeps the monorail running until late in the evening, but how many more smaller events can you think of that found the Skyway a virtual ghost train? Extending the Skyway's schedule would also have the added benefit of a designated driver. Ridership increases would make the Skyway a REAL candidate for FTA grants and possible expansion.
The idea?
Extend the Skyways operation between the hours of 5 am and 11 pm at a minimum. Concurrent with the extended hours downtown shuttle buses (aka: PCT or Potato-Chip-Truck-Thinks-Its-A-Trolley) operating the same schedule would stretch the Skyways reach from Central/Hemming/Rosa Parks to cover everything east of Hogan all the way to the stadium/Arena/Metropolitan Park/AP Randolph-Jessie Street areas.
Keep it fare free to serve as a 'transfer train' downtown. Revenue would be captured by wrap advertising, platform advertising and Kiosk leases in the huge vacant spaces within the stations.
After a short trial period to help identify market hours, extended services would operate on call. A late night shuttle bus east side connector could operate Jitney style during these hours.
The 'Automated Skyway Express' actually needs at least two persons to operate it over at Skyway Central. Late night operation would require hiring and training a couple of two man night crews, likewise the shuttle bus/es would also need drivers.
Two sets of trains could be kept on the line, 'held out' just short of a station one on each bank of the river to cover the calls for service.
MEANWHILE:
(http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lnsfqsdTsk1qbulvo.jpg)
(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4151/5220737561_0d4db0213d_z.jpg)
The city should build the 'Skywalk' from San Marco Station to Aetna and Baptist Hospital, likewise covered bridges/covered walk connections into the Prudential Building, ATT, Omni, Riverplace etc. should come on line. These Skywalks/or surface covered walks would have the effect of making the Skyway a working part of these buildings.
If the mobility plan is ever put into action, a true San Marco station at the FEC RY and Atlantic Blvd would bring the Skyway into it's first true residential area, meaning it would now run from Someplace to Something. JTA should be at the forefront of pursuit of these expansions while we have a local congressman in place that 1. loves the Skyway, 2. Chairs the House Transportation Subcommittee. When the Overland Bridge I-95/Atlantic interchange is built and FEC rail comes on line, this station would be a game changer.
Another avenue to explore, one which a certain Mr. Khan should be very interested in, is an expansion through downtown to the stadium area. I would give a long look at a station near the Baseball Grounds and another north of the Arlington Expressway on A.P.Randolph, effectively giving the Skyway event day crowds, and introducing it to the next true residential area.
Lastly, I would rename the San Marco Station to prevent confusion with a possible expansion southward...
http://www.youtube.com/v/zKM8v0Vdasc?version=3&hl=en_US
PCT'S would be replaced when retired or sold in exchange for downtown ELECTRIC BUSES.
This would change the whole face of JTA... DREAM ON...
OCKLAWAHA
Winding your way down on Water Street
Light in your head and dead on your feet
Well another crazy day, you'll drink the night away
And forget about everything
This city desert makes you feel so cold
It's got so many people but it's got no soul
And it's taken you so long to find out you were wrong
When you thought it held everything
You used to think that it was so easy
You used to say that it was so easy
But you're tryin', you're tryin' now
Another year and then you'd be happy
Just one more year and then you'd be happy
But you're cryin', you're cryin' now
With Apologies to Gerry Rafferty....
And one more thing... Ock, why don't you consider running the JTA?
Quote from: Anti redneck on April 01, 2012, 05:52:36 PM
Quote from: Jdog on April 01, 2012, 04:46:16 PM
Any recent word on:
1. Ridership numbers?
2. Likelihood of permanent no fare policy?
I was just about to ask that.
At 50 cents a ride - 1800-1900/day
Free - 3100/day
Thank you.
Tell you what boys and girls, if Mayor Brown would approve it, I will work with an administrator and plan our transit projects for free... Give me a company car and expenses.
Quote from: Anti redneck on April 01, 2012, 08:56:19 PM
Ock, are all those photos you have from Jacksonville?
Sadly as I recall, none of them were. I posted them to demonstrate the corridor could be a 'tourist attraction' in it's own right, scenic overlook for the city skyline and a vital connector for the Skyway, hospital and insurance workers. Transportation starts with the shoes on our feet.
Quote from: Ocklawaha on April 08, 2012, 09:07:53 PM
Tell you what boys and girls, if Mayor Brown would approve it, I will work with an administrator and plan our transit projects for free... Give me a company car and expenses.
How can we get this arranged?? ;D
Quote from: Ocklawaha on April 08, 2012, 09:07:53 PM
Tell you what boys and girls, if Mayor Brown would approve it, I will work with an administrator and plan our transit projects for free... Give me a company car and expenses.
Tell us what we need to do!
The Skyway will remain free through September 2012.
and then what?
and then the new Director can figur it out
Quote from: tufsu1 on April 29, 2012, 09:48:19 PM
and then the new Director can figur it out
Any potentials?
nothing that is public yet...I beleive JTA will be engaging a recruiter to assist in the national search
QuoteHelp wanted.
Must have local connections. Prefer a manager from the highway industry. Must hate all forms of rail. Must LOVE BRT and pray 5 times each day to DETROIT. Applicant needs to have a strong history with diesel engines. Should have experience with suburban style building, massive parking lots and overly complicated transportation centers. Consideration will be given to applicants from cities without mass transit, preferably someone from a town of 500 or less. Should have a least a 3Rd grade education...
Immediately contact: JACKSONVILLE TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
Ock, are you sending over your resume?
They have it... but don't hold your breath that my phone will ever ring. Funny, because I'd like the job with an expense account and NOTHING else. Fat chance.
Ock....kid all you want about the new director being a rail-hating highway person, but so far the board has been clear that the agency will need to be focus more on transit in the near future.
Finally rode the Skyway on Friday and we shot a video of the trip:
http://www.contentdg.com/skyway-southbank-trip/ (http://www.contentdg.com/skyway-southbank-trip/)
Quote from: jason_contentdg on May 01, 2012, 10:11:16 AM
Finally rode the Skyway on Friday and we shot a video of the trip:
http://www.contentdg.com/skyway-southbank-trip/ (http://www.contentdg.com/skyway-southbank-trip/)
Cool video Jason! The view you take in while going over the bridge is something you can't appreciate while driving. For all the talk about the Skyway... it's a really pleasurable ride!
Quote from: Ocklawaha on April 30, 2012, 10:01:03 AM
QuoteHelp wanted.
Must have local connections. Prefer a manager from the highway industry. Must hate all forms of rail. Must LOVE BRT and pray 5 times each day to DETROIT. Applicant needs to have a strong history with diesel engines. Should have experience with suburban style building, massive parking lots and overly complicated transportation centers. Consideration will be given to applicants from cities without mass transit, preferably someone from a town of 500 or less. Should have a least a 3Rd grade education...
Immediately contact: JACKSONVILLE TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
LMAO!! ;D
Quote from: Ocklawaha on April 30, 2012, 11:15:54 AM
They have it... but don't hold your breath that my phone will ever ring. Funny, because I'd like the job with an expense account and NOTHING else. Fat chance.
Just tell them that you want to make Jacksonville the biggest BRT city in the world (then go forth with your real agendas once your're in). They'll hire you. But in all seriousness, check up on that resume.
Quote from: tufsu1 on April 30, 2012, 08:35:25 AM
nothing that is public yet...I beleive JTA will be engaging a recruiter to assist in the national search
You are correct. The responses to the RFP are due April 17th.
From the RFP:
QuotePurpose and Scope of Request for Proposals
Under this Request for Proposals (this “RFPâ€), the Authority is seeking proposals for Executive Search Services for its Executive Director position. The Authority will endeavor to engage a recognized and experienced executive search firm to: 1) define a search strategy; 2) refine the description of the position and develop/facilitate candidate specifications, certain aspects of which are set forth in Section II hereof; 3) research, source contacts and perform prospective candidate filtering for compliance with minimum required credentials; 4) assist in identifying and recruiting potential candidates upon request; 5) assist in candidate evaluation; 6) create and produce candidate reports; 7) coordinate candidate introductory meetings, including advancing travel expenses; and 8) facilitate job offer, assist in negotiation of final terms, conduct reference checks and close out the recruitment process.
NOTE: IT IS THE INTENT OF THE AUTHORITY THAT THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CANDIDATE BE SELECTED, HIRED AND ON-SITE FOR COMMENCEMENT OF EMPLOYMENT NOT LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 1, 2012.
QuoteThe current job description for the position of Executive Director is set forth below. As part of the services to be provided hereunder, the selected proposer shall assist the Authority in refining the job description.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Executive Director of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority serves under the general direction of the Board and performs the highest level of managerial and administrative work related to the JTA’s system including planning for public transportation needs; supervising bridge and highway construction; directing the mass transit division; overseeing the acquisition, maintenance and repair of all vehicles, buildings and grounds owned by the JTA; coordinating with the Board to assure that all issues and decisions requiring Board action are fully explained and discussed; interact as the Authority’s chief executive officer with local, state and federal government entities.
Duties of the Executive Director include:
Working closely with the Board to define and implement policy decisions.
Provide for the financial management of all JTA activities and making day-to-day decisions on budgetary matters not requiring Board actions.
Coordinate all planning engineering and construction of JTA projects.
Supervise and directing all mass transit and engineering division operations, personnel, and equipment through subordinate staff.
Negotiate all contracts affecting the Authority.
Conduct public hearing on matters requiring such action; working closely with the media to communicate information of public interest; directing the publication of general information materials to educate and inform the public of transportation services provided by the Authority.
Obtain and working closely with JTA legal counsel in matters of litigation or those requiring interpretation of law.
Oversee the preparation of agenda materials for presentation at scheduled monthly Board meetings and special work sessions as appropriate.
Represent the Authority in matters involving Federal, State and local government and ensuring that all federal, state and local rules/regulations, which apply to JTA operations, are adhered to.
Secure any and all available funding for the implementation of Authority programs.
Candidate Knowledge, Abilities and Skills
Qualified candidates would possess the following:
1. Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of transit and highway construction management, and public and business administration.
2. Thorough knowledge of all federal, state and local regulatory requirements applicable to the development, construction and operation of transit and road and bridge facilities.
3. Thorough knowledge of transportation funding processes at the local, state and federal level.
4. Considerable knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of supervision, organization and administration.
5. Considerable knowledge of transportation facilities and mobility issues facing major urbanized and regional communities. Specific knowledge of transportation challenges facing Northeast Florida would be a plus.
6. Ability to plan, implement and coordinate technical and administrative programs.
7. Ability to exercise sound judgment in decision making.
8. Ability to evaluate performance of the organization and its key employees, and correct as necessary.
9. Ability to make public presentations and explain technical data to a non-technical audience.
10. Ability to express ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.
11. Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with honesty and integrity in full accord with the letter and spirit of the Authority’s Ethics Code.
12. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, co-workers, elected and appointed officials and members of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds regardless of race, religion, age, sex, disability or political affiliation.
Desirable Experience and Training
Candidates would be expected to have graduated from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in transportation, engineering, business or public administration or related field; thorough progressively responsible experience in transit and road and bridge operations and management, including considerable high level supervisory and administrative experience; or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
No idea how to get the 'cool guy' to actually show up as the number 8 with a ) behind it...
Quote from: dougskiles on May 01, 2012, 08:36:10 PM
Quote from: tufsu1 on April 30, 2012, 08:35:25 AM
nothing that is public yet...I beleive JTA will be engaging a recruiter to assist in the national search
You are correct. The responses to the RFP are due April 17th.
From the RFP:
QuotePurpose and Scope of Request for Proposals
Under this Request for Proposals (this “RFPâ€), the Authority is seeking proposals for Executive Search Services for its Executive Director position. The Authority will endeavor to engage a recognized and experienced executive search firm to: 1) define a search strategy; 2) refine the description of the position and develop/facilitate candidate specifications, certain aspects of which are set forth in Section II hereof; 3) research, source contacts and perform prospective candidate filtering for compliance with minimum required credentials; 4) assist in identifying and recruiting potential candidates upon request; 5) assist in candidate evaluation; 6) create and produce candidate reports; 7) coordinate candidate introductory meetings, including advancing travel expenses; and 8) facilitate job offer, assist in negotiation of final terms, conduct reference checks and close out the recruitment process.
NOTE: IT IS THE INTENT OF THE AUTHORITY THAT THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CANDIDATE BE SELECTED, HIRED AND ON-SITE FOR COMMENCEMENT OF EMPLOYMENT NOT LATER THAN SEPTEMBER 1, 2012.
QuoteThe current job description for the position of Executive Director is set forth below. As part of the services to be provided hereunder, the selected proposer shall assist the Authority in refining the job description.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Executive Director of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority serves under the general direction of the Board and performs the highest level of managerial and administrative work related to the JTA’s system including planning for public transportation needs; supervising bridge and highway construction; directing the mass transit division; overseeing the acquisition, maintenance and repair of all vehicles, buildings and grounds owned by the JTA; coordinating with the Board to assure that all issues and decisions requiring Board action are fully explained and discussed; interact as the Authority’s chief executive officer with local, state and federal government entities.
Duties of the Executive Director include:
Working closely with the Board to define and implement policy decisions.
Provide for the financial management of all JTA activities and making day-to-day decisions on budgetary matters not requiring Board actions.
Coordinate all planning engineering and construction of JTA projects.
Supervise and directing all mass transit and engineering division operations, personnel, and equipment through subordinate staff.
Negotiate all contracts affecting the Authority.
Conduct public hearing on matters requiring such action; working closely with the media to communicate information of public interest; directing the publication of general information materials to educate and inform the public of transportation services provided by the Authority.
Obtain and working closely with JTA legal counsel in matters of litigation or those requiring interpretation of law.
Oversee the preparation of agenda materials for presentation at scheduled monthly Board meetings and special work sessions as appropriate.
Represent the Authority in matters involving Federal, State and local government and ensuring that all federal, state and local rules/regulations, which apply to JTA operations, are adhered to.
Secure any and all available funding for the implementation of Authority programs.
Candidate Knowledge, Abilities and Skills
Qualified candidates would possess the following:
1. Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of transit and highway construction management, and public and business administration.
2. Thorough knowledge of all federal, state and local regulatory requirements applicable to the development, construction and operation of transit and road and bridge facilities.
3. Thorough knowledge of transportation funding processes at the local, state and federal level.
4. Considerable knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of supervision, organization and administration.
5. Considerable knowledge of transportation facilities and mobility issues facing major urbanized and regional communities. Specific knowledge of transportation challenges facing Northeast Florida would be a plus.
6. Ability to plan, implement and coordinate technical and administrative programs.
7. Ability to exercise sound judgment in decision making.
8. Ability to evaluate performance of the organization and its key employees, and correct as necessary.
9. Ability to make public presentations and explain technical data to a non-technical audience.
10. Ability to express ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.
11. Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with honesty and integrity in full accord with the letter and spirit of the Authority’s Ethics Code.
12. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, co-workers, elected and appointed officials and members of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds regardless of race, religion, age, sex, disability or political affiliation.
Desirable Experience and Training
Candidates would be expected to have graduated from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in transportation, engineering, business or public administration or related field; thorough progressively responsible experience in transit and road and bridge operations and management, including considerable high level supervisory and administrative experience; or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
No idea how to get the 'cool guy' to actually show up as the number 8 with a ) behind it...
While I'm sure the wrong guy will be chosen, I'm sure they're has to be a way to get our voices to be heard and our ideas to be carried out. Let them know we don't want Jacksonville to live in the stone age anymore.
JTA has decided the skyway will be free to ride for another year.
http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-08-29/story/jta-will-keep-skyway-free-riders-another-year
Appears also moving forward with the Greyhound terminal.
Does it run again on Sundays?
Quote from: Coolyfett on October 23, 2013, 04:15:32 PM
Does it run again on Sundays?
no...unless there is something special going on
This popping up reminded me of something I meant to ask a few weeks ago:
How did the "bikes on the Skyway" experiment work out?
Have they put any numbers to it?
Any additional comment for or against?
Anyone here try it out, and what was your experience?
I heard there were five bikes, the first time it was allowed. Hopefully, it will be expanded.