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Your RTC. Our Community.

October 2020

RTC Commissioners, below you will find your October 2020 RTC Board Update eNews. This electronic newsletter is distributed monthly following your board meeting.
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Watch this video to learn how to use RTC FlexRIDE.

RTC Launches New FlexRIDE Service in Somersett/Verdi and Spanish Springs

The RTC launched its new FlexRIDE transit service in the Spanish Springs and Somersett areas on Saturday, October 24, 2020. FlexRIDE is an on-demand, shared-ride public transit service that provides users with curbside-to-curbside service within each FlexRIDE zone.
 
These are more outlying areas of our community that the RTC has not been able to serve before, due to funding constraints. But, with innovative solutions and vision from the RTC Board, we are now able to bring transit to more areas of our community, reaching more people, and expanding transportation choices in the region.
 
The RTC is also transitioning to a new FlexRIDE app for all current and future FlexRIDE services, including North Valleys FlexRIDE and Sparks FlexRIDE. New and existing FlexRIDE users using smartphones and tablets are asked to download the free RTC Washoe FlexRIDE app from the Apple App Store or Google Play to book rides. The older Transloc app no longer works to book rides.
 
Scheduling a FlexRIDE is done by using the RTC Washoe FlexRIDE app on your smartphone or tablet or calling a dispatcher at (775) 335-0035. Schedule your ride at your desired travel time and the ride can be expected to arrive to the curbside closest to your location in 15 minutes or less. Fares will be the same as the standard RTC RIDE fares, $2 per ride or $3 for a day pass. Reduced fares will also be the same as existing RTC RIDE reduced fares. Drivers do not accept cash. Only Token Transit or bus passes will be accepted.
 
Sparks-Spanish Springs FlexRIDE:
The current Sparks FlexRIDE service area has been expanded to include a portion of Spanish Springs. The new area includes areas of Pyramid Highway, the Galleria Shopping Center, parts of Los Altos Parkway, Vista Boulevard, Kiley Ranch, and the Spanish Springs Library. Sparks FlexRIDE connects with RTC CENTENNIAL PLAZA so that passengers can connect with RTC’s transit system. Please see map to view the full service area.

Somersett FlexRIDE: 
The new Somersett FlexRIDE area includes parts of Verdi, including Bridge Street, Cabela’s, and Boomtown Casino, along with a majority of the Somersett area, and including parts of Glen Eagle Drive, Avenida de Landa, Robb Drive, and Las Brisas Boulevard. Somersett FlexRIDE connects with RTC RIDE Route 4 so that FlexRIDE passengers can connect with RTC’s transit system. Please see map to view full service area.

FlexRIDE operation hours in Somersett/Verdi and Sparks/Spanish Springs:
  • Monday – Friday: 5:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
  • Saturday/Sunday/Holiday: 6 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Learn more at rtcwashoe.com
Virginia Street near the University of Nevada, Reno, in July 2020 (left) and October 2020 (right).

Virginia Street Project to Reach Substantial Completion by First Week of November

 
Construction is nearly complete on the Virginia Street Project near the University of Nevada, Reno. Substantial completion by Sierra Nevada Construction is anticipated by the first week of November. After substantial completion, construction crews will still have minor, punch-list items to finish, including some work on the transit stations near the University of Nevada, Reno. Crews will be installing signage, wind-blocking glass, handrails, and seating. Construction crews will also be finishing work on the traffic signals on Virginia Street near 8th Street and 9th Street, and completing some landscaping.

When it is complete, the project will improve safety, access, and  transit facilities. The new roundabout on Virginia Street near the West Stadium Parking Complex is a key design feature that incorporates these benefits. The roundabout will help reduce speed and congestion on both Virginia Street and at the parking garage, which is anticipated to reduce crash rates. The roundabout also provides a safe and efficient space for RAPID transit buses to turn around. When driving through a roundabout, vehicles entering the roadway must yield to traffic circulating the roadway.

In Midtown, the RTC is also supporting the City of Reno’s efforts as they install a new art sculpture, bike racks, and benches through October.

The final project feature, the extension of Bus RAPID Transit service, will launch in 2021. The transit extension will connect RTC’s RAPID Virginia Line from Meadowood Mall to the University. The convenient, quick transit service will improve RTC’s transit access through Reno’s busiest travel corridor and make transit a more-competitive transportation choice. The new route will also make it easier for University students, faculty, and staff to use transit, which is anticipated to help ease parking and traffic congestion around the University.

The RTC began the $90-million Virginia Street Project in Midtown on September 4, 2018, when crews began phase one of the project to replace aging underground utilities. Phase one was completed on March 14, 2019. Phase two of the project began on June 17, 2019.

The RTC would like to thank our partners in the Virginia Street Project, the City of Reno, the University of Nevada, Reno, and the Federal Transit Administration. The RTC also thanks our construction contractor Sierra Nevada Construction, construction manager and environmental consultant Atkins, and design consultants NCE and CA Group, for creating local jobs for Northern Nevadans and bringing this project to completion. Thank you to PK Electrical, LA Studios, Shields Engineering, CME, and MAPCA. The RTC also thanks Taylor Made Solutions for project outreach.

More information
For more information about the Virginia Street Project, visit VirginiaStreetProject.com and follow RTC on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
 
Learn More at VirginiaStreetProject.com

RIDE RTC Transit Free on Election Day and Veterans Day

The RTC is offering free public transportation all day on Election Day, November 3, and Veterans Day, November 11.

Access to the election process should not be a barrier for anyone choosing to vote in person. Using public transportation to reach the polls is an opportunity open to everyone in our community.

The RTC holds Veterans and their families in the highest regard. Offering free transit services on Veterans Day is our way of thanking and honoring those who have served and made sacrifices for our freedom.

Passengers taking advantage of free transit days should note that social distancing protocols are in place on our buses and masks are required on transit. The RTC has also implemented additional cleaning measures.

There are a variety of benefits to taking public transportation. For example, if you take a bus, you help reduce greenhouse gas emissions into our environment, which helps promote better air quality in the Truckee Meadows. In addition, public transportation can ease traffic, reduce congestion, and save energy and fuel.

Free transit also spurs increased ridership and encourages people who have not tried transit before to do so.

Plan Your Trip at rtcwashoe.com

#Dusk2DawnNV Campaign Brings Awareness to Pedestrian Safety As Daylight Saving Time Ends

The Vision Zero Truckee Meadows regional task force is reminding the community to use extra caution as we approach the time change on Sunday, November 1, 2020. It will be darker earlier, and statistics show that 80% of pedestrian fatalities occur between dusk and dawn.

As part of the Vision Zero Truckee Meadows task force’s efforts to keep our community safe, the task force is joining a statewide campaign called #Dusk2DawnNV. The campaign is meant to remind the community to take extra precautions to bring the number of pedestrian fatalities in our region to zero.

The task force partnered with area businesses to post #Dusk2DawnNV safety posters and distribute backpacks with reflectors and reflective wrist slappers. The task force has also partnered with Safe Routes to School to encourage safety for students walking to and from school.

As part of their efforts, the task force  partnered with University of Nevada, Reno, cheerleaders, local mascots, including the Aces’ Archie, Reno 1868 FC’s Truckee, and the Safe Routes to School safety crayon to release a video with important safety tips for walking in our community.

The video features the following safety tips:
  • Stay in well-lit areas.
  • Walk with friends.
  • Be visible so drivers can see you. Carry a flashlight or reflector.
  • Put down your phone. Unless you’re using it as a flashlight!
  • Take off your headphones.
  • Stay on sidewalks and use marked crosswalks.
  • Avoid wearing dark clothing.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings and traffic.
  • Think twice before you walk at night! When it’s dark, it’s harder for drivers to see you.

Those choosing to celebrate Halloween with traditional trick-or-treating, or those attending events after dark, are reminded to please use extra caution on area roadways.

Learn more at VisionZeroTruckeeMeadows.com

Kuenzli St. Conversion to Two-Way Traffic Complete

The RTC completed construction on Kuenzli Street on Monday, October 19. Kuenzli Street is now open to two-way traffic from Kirman Avenue to Giroux Street. This segment of Kuenzli Street was previously one-way-westbound traffic only. The RTC wants to remind the community to use extra caution as they navigate this new, permanent two-way traffic pattern.
 
As part of the roadway-maintenance and pavement-preservation project, Giroux Street from Kuenzli Street to East 2nd Street was also converted to accommodate two-way traffic. The project also included the area on Kirman Avenue from just south of the Truckee River Bridge to East 2nd Street, and Kuenzli Street from Wells Avenue to Kirman Avenue.
 
The community will see the following improvements:

  • Pavement improvements, including slurry sealing and new roadway striping
  • ADA improvements at several pedestrian crosswalks and ramps
  • Added bike lanes and shared bike/vehicle lanes
  • New pedestrian crossing flashers in place of the traffic signal at the intersection of Locust Street and Kuenzli Street (signal will be removed)
  • Traffic signal modification at the Kuenzli Street/Kirman Avenue intersection to allow a southbound-left movement to eastbound Kuenzli Street.

 
Drivers should note that there is no longer street parking on Kuenzli Street in the two-way traffic segment east of Kirman Avenue. This change was made due to minimal usage of on-street parking on Kuenzli Street in this area, and to accommodate new bicycle lanes.
 
The conversion of Kuenzli Street to allow two-way traffic was requested by City of Reno staff to accommodate the new Reno Public Safety Center at 911 Kuenzli Street.

Construction Continues on Sun Valley Blvd. Project


Construction continues to improve Sun Valley Boulevard from 7th Avenue to Highland Ranch Parkway. Crews recently completed paving operations. The project will increase safety, access, and mobility in the neighborhood and benefit drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users.

The RTC anticipates increased traffic within the construction zone and encourages drivers coming from Sparks to use Pyramid Highway instead of cutting through to Sun Valley Boulevard, when possible. Homes and businesses along this corridor will remain accessible during construction.
 
The project is substantially complete from Staci Way to Highland Ranch Parkway. The segment of Sun Valley Boulevard from Staci Way to 7th Avenue will be completed next construction season, as warmer temperatures permit. Phase one of this project represents an approximately $8 million investment in our community funded with local fuel tax revenue.
Learn more at SunValleyBlvd.org
RTC Director of Engineering Brian Stewart and RTC Project Manager Maria Paz Fernandez accept the award from SVGID Chairperson Sandra Ainsworth.

RTC Receives Sun Valley Community Service Award

Each year, the Sun Valley General Improvement District (SVGID) recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations whose efforts contribute significantly to the benefit of Sun Valley. The RTC was honored to receive the SVGID Community Service Award at the SVGID board meeting on October 22, 2020.
 
The RTC completed a Corridor Study in 2015 to evaluate safety improvements along Sun Valley Boulevard. To date, RTC has completed two accessible pedestrian signals and safe crossing median islands. RTC began installation of sidewalks and curb extensions, as well as upgraded storm drains to help control future storm water from 7th Avenue to Highland Ranch Parkway in spring of 2020. This Complete Streets project provides additional safety improvements for all pedestrians within the Sun Valley community including bike lanes, accessible public transportation stops, frequent and safe crossing opportunities, median islands, accessible pedestrian signals, and more. Throughout the construction process, the RTC and Q & D Construction have worked closely with and around SVGID facilities as well as providing safe traveling conditions in the community during construction.
 
The nomination was submitted by the Sun Valley General Improvement District staff.

East Prater Way Project Complete

The RTC completed construction on a roadway rehabilitation project on East Prater Way in Sparks between McCarran Boulevard and Sparks Boulevard on October 22. The pavement in this section of roadway had deteriorated and needed to be replaced. The project added sidewalks and bike lanes, and improved center medians, curb ramps, and crosswalks. In cooperation with the City of Sparks, the RTC also improved storm drainage and replaced aging sewer infrastructure. The project was a success and was completed on time.  Spanish Springs Construction’s partnering approach included public outreach efforts and coordination with City of Sparks, the Nevada Department of Transportation, Truckee Meadows Water Authority, NV Energy, AT&T, and Well Quest Development. The list below highlights some of the project’s accomplishments:

  • Placed more than 10,000 tons of new asphalt.
  • Constructed 5,800 feet of curb and gutter, 4,500 feed of median curb, 30,000 square feet of sidewalk, and 25 pedestrian ramps.
  • Replaced 2,000 feet of sewer.
  • Installed new street lighting and improved the crossing at Willow Creek Park.
  • Placed 10 new trees within the landscape median.
  • Placed more than one mile of new conduit for Sparks Police Department communications and traffic signal coordination.

This project began on April 20, 2020, and represents an estimated $5.6 million investment in our community.

Construction on Lakeside Drive Complete

The RTC completed a roadway rehabilitation project on Lakeside Drive between McCarran Boulevard and Evans Creek Drive on October 14, 2020.
 
As part of the project, the RTC reconstructed the roadway, replaced ADA-deficient sidewalks and pedestrian ramps, added bike lanes on both sides of the roadway, and made ADA improvements to driveways.
 
This project will help create significant bicycle connectivity in our region, as well as a safer, smoother road for drivers. Projects like this one are important to achieving the RTC’s goals of keeping pavement in good condition and improving multimodal access throughout our community.
 
The project’s ADA improvements, especially to sidewalks, will improve access and mobility for everyone. All road users, including pedestrians, will benefit from the improvements the RTC has made on Lakeside Drive.
 
The project began on July 20, 2020, and was completed on schedule and within budget. The project represents a $2.2-million investment in our community, funded with local fuel tax revenue.

VANPOOL Usage During the Pandemic

When the pandemic hit in March 2020, the RTC had 218 vanpools operating. While working closely with Enterprise, our VANPOOL provider, and the major businesses in support of the non-essential shut downs, the RTC dropped down to 211 VANPOOLS during the months of April through September. With continual communication and assurances that we could ramp back up quickly, the RTC has risen to a new high of 221 VANPOOLs in October.

The RTC was successful in its endeavor to continue providing VANPOOL service, especially when compared to other regions. For example, the vanpool program in the Houston region went from more than 400 vanpools pre-pandemic to 165 vanpools currently. The Washington, D.C., area also saw a dramatic decrease in vanpool passengers, dropping from 73%.

Unfortunately, results like these have been the norm in the industry. Most programs across the county have seen a sharp decline and a very slow recovery of their vanpool programs. The RTC is proud of our efforts to beat the nationwide trend.

The 2019 Stuff A Bus for Children In Care drive-by donation drive collected critical, new items for children in need in our community.

Stuff A Bus for Children in Care on Friday, Nov. 13

The Washoe County Human Services Agency (HSA), the RTC, and Target are calling on the community to support the 2020 Children in Care Stuff a Bus Drive-By Donation Drive. All donations received will be delivered to foster and adoptive children. 
 
HSA is currently serving more than 700 kids in care. With winter well on its way, Washoe County is calling on the community to donate warm clothes Friday, November 13 from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Those wishing to donate to children don’t have to get out of the car, but can drive up to the RTC bus with donation in front of Target in Sparks, which is located at 1550 East Lincoln Way. Brand new clothing items needed include: jackets, coats, gloves, socks, blankets sweatpants, boots, beanies, hooded sweatshirts, and gift cards. 
 
The Human Services Agency will take donations from Target to the Family Engagement Center in Sparks, which is the main site for ongoing support to families throughout the winter months.

NDOT: New Wind Warning Signs on U.S. 395

 
“Ahead of stronger winter storms, screaming south-southwest winds come over Peavine Mountain at over 100 mph, then crash down the steep north slopes like a wave does at the beach. When this wave of air slams into the valley, it's right along 395 especially near Stead and Red Rock exits, producing gusts over 80 mph - the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane,” National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Smallcomb explains of U.S. 395 in the North Valleys.

To help keep freeway drivers safer on the windy corridor, the Nevada Department of Transportation is activating flashing wind warning signs.

The six wind warning signs, three in each direction, are located between Golden Valley and Bordertown. Lights on the advisory signs will flash when wind gusts reach 45 mph or greater, notifying drivers of high-profile vehicles of nine feet or taller that travel through the area is not advised, and cautioning drivers of all other vehicles to reduce speeds.

In addition, four signs have been installed advising motorists to be aware of deer crossing in the area.

While similar to NDOT’s wind warning system in Washoe Valley, the North Valleys system will advise against, but not prohibit, high-profile vehicle travel. NDOT will conduct a study evaluating impacts and logistics of a potential future system prohibiting high-profile vehicles in the North Valleys. Wind-speed thresholds and other elements of the system could be changed at that time.

In the past five years, 12 crashes have been recorded in the area associated with high winds; many resulting in vehicles being overturned.
 
HIGH-WIND DRIVING SAFETY TIPS
  • Plan ahead. Leave extra time, as your drive may take longer as you drive more slowly in high winds.
  • Always wear a seatbelt.
  • Slow your speed to a safe driving speed and turn on headlights if needed to account for potentially lower visibility created by blowing dust, sand, snow, or rain.
  • Keep your hands firmly on the wheel.
  • Make steering corrections when driving from wind-protected areas to unprotected areas. The wind may suddenly move your car when traveling from a protected to unprotected area.
Learn more at NevadaDOT.com

NDOT: Customer Satisfaction Survey


The Nevada Department of Transportation’s (NDOT) Maintenance Division is conducting a state-wide customer satisfaction survey to help fulfill NDOT’s commitment to excellent customer service. NDOT is hoping to gather feedback from a diverse array of people from across the state. The survey itself should take no longer than 10 minutes to complete and will guarantee that your feedback is received. The survey is open through November 10, 2020. Please click the link below to begin the survey.
Take the NDOT Customer Satisfaction Survey

Upcoming Events and Meetings

Now - November 10
Take the NDOT Customer Satisfaction Survey
October 30
Nevada Day Observed
RTC Administrative Offices closed; Transit on regular schedule
November 3
Election Day: Free RTC Transit All Day
November 11
Veterans Day: Free RTC Transit All Day
November 13
Stuff A Bus for Children In Care Drive-By Donation Drive
3-7 p.m. at Sparks Target
November 20
RTC Board Meeting
Watch on YouTube at 9 a.m.

This meeting will be available to view on RTC's YouTube page. In-person attendance will not be allowed, but this meeting will be available to view online.

Following are approved ways for the public to participate in the meeting without having to be physically present:
Please note that public comments and voicemails submitted by 4 p.m. on Thursday, November 19, will be entered into the meeting record.
Please contact Michael Moreno or me with any questions you may have.
Michael can be reached at (775) 335-1869 or email at mmoreno@rtcwashoe.com
Archived editions are available at: rtcwashoe.com.

Bill Thomas, RTC Executive Director
Email: bthomas@rtcwashoe.com
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