Job Access and Reverse Commute (jarc) Program fy 2009 Service Profiles Region X alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington October 2010 fta-08-0162 Job Access and Reverse Commute (jarc) fy 2009 Service Profiles: Region X

Location: Tigard (OR)
Type: Trip-Based Services/Demand response
Goal: Improved access/connections
Service description: The availability of an accessible, time sensitive, and dependable transportation system is an essential component to ensuring that everyone who qualifies for this service has an equal opportunity to be served. Tigard commute service improves access to job sites, social services, and educational/vocational programs. This project offers another transportation option for these customers. Prior to initiating the Tigard commute service, staff from the City of Tigard expressed the concern that the lack of comprehensive fixed route service within Tigard’s city limits posed problems for low-income job commuters, especially those with young children. Our program offers this critical service to link low-income Tigard residents to the transit system.
Evaluation: Effectiveness of service is evaluated by total rides. Efficiency is measured by the average cost per ride.
Accomplishments: Regional coordination efforts have been successful over the past several years by working with other agencies to initiate and sustain our Tigard commute service. We seek community involvement and input through our Washington County advisory committee and ongoing community outreach efforts.
Lessons learned: Sustain and build new regional relationships to optimize service efficiency and attract new riders.

Worklink & RideWise (446)

Location: Portland (OR)
Type: Information-Based Services/One-on-one transit training ("travel training")
Goal: Improved customer knowledge
Service description: RideWise is a collaborative effort between TriMet and Ride Connection to promote independent travel of older adults and people with disabilities by providing free training, support and access to information. The program has been providing mobility support since November 2004. The program is designed to provide mobility support ranging from trip planning assistance to one-on-one travel training. The level of support provided is based solely on an individual’s ability. The Ride Connection WorkLink trainer provides information about efficient and safe transportation options in the Portland metropolitan area to any individual who lives in either Washington or Multnomah County who wish to access employment, job training opportunities or services related to employment and is at or below 150% of the poverty level.
Group and individual instruction is available in English or Spanish for clients of all levels of literacy and ability. In addition, a train-the-trainer program is available to give frontline workers (i.e. TANF counselors, Steps to Success Employment Specialist, etc.) the skills and resources necessary to provide this training to their clients. A typical training session covers the following topics: Hands-on practice in planning a trip on Tri-Met by phone, on the Internet and with schedules and a map; Information on where to buy tickets, which tickets to buy, how to validate tickets, how to read transfers, etc.; Safety, security and comfort on bus and MAX; How to take a bicycle on bus and MAX and; Alternative transportation options including Zipcar, carpooling, cycling and any other options that may be specific to the geographic area.