Author: mec_access

Measure C Provides Funding for Street Paving in the City of Fresno

Posted on

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — The City of Fresno’s street paving season has begun.

It is investing $34 million in road improvements.

It is being funded by Measure C revenue, as well as state and federal dollars.

“Your local tax dollars are going right back into your local neighborhoods,” said Nelson Esparza, Fresno City Councilmember.

The first on the list is McKinley Avenue from Chestnut to Peach.

Over the next four weeks, crews will scrape up the old asphalt, remove it and repave it.

For years, McKinley has been a rocky road riddled with potholes.

“It’s not just people that live in the area or people that come to do business, but it is also the folks that go to and from our airport,” said Mayor Jerry Dyer.

The eastbound lanes will be closed first, and the westbound lanes will follow.

The McKinley project is just one of nearly 30 to be completed this year.

“We’re ensuring these projects benefit every part of Fresno, from busy commercial corridors to local neighborhood streets. Whether you live in the north end or the south end, we’re paving streets throughout Fresno,” said Dyer.

They’re asking for patience as road closures and detours will be in place, but they promise the smoother drive will be worth it.

Historic First: Student Pilot Flies Electric Plane in Groundbreaking Flight Training

Posted on

The Measure C New Technology Reserve Program celebrated a historical day in aviation on May 9, 2024. Student Pilot, Josiah Bohanon, logged the first in-flight minutes aboard an all-electric airplane in the nation. A non-profit organization, New Vision Aviation, trains disadvantaged youth in Fresno how to fly planes and is paving the way for the Central Valley pilots to succeed.

Fresno County Transportation Authority Appoints Terry Ogle as its New Executive Director

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2024

Media Contact: Rose Willems
Measure C Advocate
rose@measurec.com
559.681.9369

Fresno County Transportation Authority Appoints Terry Ogle as its New Executive Director

(FRESNO COUNTY, CA) – After an extensive recruiting effort, the Fresno County Transportation Authority, (FCTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Terry Ogle to serve as its new executive director, beginning on February 26, 2024

“Ogle is a dedicated transportation and public works leader who knows the Valley well, stated Fresno County Supervisor Mendes, chairman of the FCTA board. “His 35 years of experience and knowledge of our local infrastructure is exactly what the FCTA needs to address the challenges facing our region.”

Ogle has more than 35 years of transportation experience working for Caltrans, High Speed Rail, and several global professional engineering firms. While at Caltrans, Ogle was responsible for delivery of several of the Measure C funded Freeway construction projects within the Fresno County. Ogle has worked on a vast number of transportation projects stretching from San Joaquin County down through San Bernardino County.

Ogle serves as an at-will employee to a nine-member board of directors that includes local elected officials, and public members at large. Ogle will carry a wide range of responsibilities to ensure the ongoing success of FCTA. His main responsibility will be carrying out the board’s strategies for implementing the programs and projects funded by the 20-year Measure C Expenditure Plan along with spearheading the renewal efforts.

Measure C is Fresno County’s half-cent transportation sales tax with $118.9 million revenue projected in FY 2023-24. Measure C was one of the first “self-help” counties in California and has successfully constructed over $2 billion of local infrastructure improvements between 1987-2007 throughout Fresno County and its 15-cities. Notable projects include SR41, SR168, SR180, SR269 Huron Bridge Construction, and Mountain View Ave Widening and Bridge Replacement.

The Original Measure C and the Measure C extension is projected to collect approximately $2 billion by 2027. These and other matching funds have been utilized to improve all methods of transportation in Fresno County while at the same time contributing to a vibrant economy, assisting in cleaning our Valley air, and continuing to leverage our local dollars with state and federal funds to support Fresno County’s growing transportation needs.

Ogle is a New Mexico State University graduate and a California Professional Engineer. He is currently a resident of Reedley and has called the Valley home from over 35 years. Ogle is only the fourth executive director to lead the FCTA over the last 37 years. Mike Leonardo is retiring after he led the agency for seven years.

Ogle’s FCTA bio is attached for more details regarding his work experience, education, and qualifications.

Now Seeking Executive Director Applicants

Posted on

The Fresno County Transportation Authority (FCTA) was established in 1987 to implement the original Measure C program. After the 20-year half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements was implemented on July 1, 1987, it was extended for another 20 years in 2006. The FCTA continues to work hard to fulfill every promise Measure C made from the beginning, assuring funds are expended as the voters intended to improve Fresno County’s infrastructure. The FCTA partners with Fresno County Council of Governments to leverage additional dollars from Sacramento and Washington D.C. to match every Measure C dollar generated locally under the current Measure C Extension program.

The Fresno County Transportation Authority (FCTA) is currently accepting applications for the role of Executive Director. This position is accountable for the enforcement of all Authority, local, state, and federal codes and regulations, the oversight and conduct of all financial and other activities, and the efficient and economical implementation of Measure C funded projects. Under the supervision of the FCTA Board of Directors, the Executive Director manages and administers all Authority functions and activities; provides policy guidance and program evaluation to the Board and management staff; ensures that all regulatory and contractual requirements are met; implements the voter-approved Measure C one-half cent sales tax program for transportation purposes; pursues additional funding; fosters cooperative working relationships with other governmental and regulatory agencies and various public and private groups; advocates on behalf of the FCTA.

 

Duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Planning, administering, and evaluating the work of the Authority, including Measure C project delivery and monitoring, in accordance with applicable laws, codes, regulations, and adopted policies.
  • Directing and coordinating the development and implementation of administrative policies, procedures, and controls to ensure that the goals and objectives are met and that programs planned by the Fresno Council of Governments are implemented in an effective, efficient, and economical manner.
  • Overseeing the preparation of administrative budgets for the Authority; authorizing budget transfers, expenditures, and purchases; providing information regarding the Authority’s financial condition and needs to the Board of Directors.
  • Ensuring proper documentation of expenditures and their accounting; including overseeing the preparation of the required annual audits.
  • Advising the Board of Directors on issues, programs, and financial status; including recommending shortand long- range plans as well as the annual report for Authority service provision and program funding.
  • Representing the Authority and the Board of Directors in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups and various business, professional, regulatory, and legislative organizations including but not limited to, the California Transportation Commission (CTC), District 6 Caltrans representatives, the Self-Help Counties Coalition, the Fresno County Council of Governments (Fresno COG), the County of Fresno and the 15 cities and other entities involved in the delivery of Original and Extension Measure C projects and programs.
  • Pursuing funding to leverage Measure C funds such as State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) funding as well as other grant/funding matching strategies in conjunction with Fresno COG.
  • Developing community relations/public relations element of the Measure C program; engaging the community, growing awareness of transportation value, and building support for investment in transportation; providing media resources to support public and community relations.
  • Providing leadership, direction, and technical support for any potential Measure C renewal efforts, as directed by the Board of Directors.
  • Overseeing the selection, training, professional development, and work evaluation of Authority staff; provides policy guidance and interpretation to staff.
  • Ensuring that the Board of Directors is kept informed of Authority functions, activities, and financial status and of legal, social, and economic issues affecting Authority activities.
  • Monitoring changes in laws, regulations, and technology that may affect Authority operations; implementing policy and procedural changes as required.

 

The ideal candidate will possess the following:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant or closely related field including major coursework in civil engineering, transportation planning, or public or business administration, (Master’s degree a plus.)
  • Minimum ten (10) years of progressive senior management experience in a public agency. (Preferably in the transportation industry.)
  • Previous executive-level experience overseeing entire organizational operations and programs.
  • An entrepreneurial mindset regarding new opportunities, new challenges, and prospective areas for continuous organizational growth.
  • Proficiency in various computer software programs including Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Ability to develop and operationalize strategies aimed at leading an organization to the next stage.
  • Demonstrative history of facilitating and leading cross-sector collaboration.
  • Proven organizational/time management experience and proficient computer skills for planning, budgeting, and documentation.
  • Exceptional leadership and analytical abilities with all levels of staff and management.
  • Adept in oral and written communication, presentation, and relational skills including community outreach, involvement, and engagement.
  • Must maintain a valid California driver’s license with acceptable DMV driving record, personal automobile liability insurance, and reliable transportation, which may be used in the course of work.

 

Position offers a competitive salary between $180k -$200k annually – open to negotiation based on experience and qualifications. Benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, PTO, Sick Time, and 401(k) with Company match.

 

Apply online through Sierra HR Partners. Make telephone inquiries by calling 559.431.8090

 

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Golden State Boulevard Improvement and Enhancement Corridor Project Groundbreaking Event

Posted on
FCTS Fresno County Transportation Authority
Measure C
Fresno Council of Governments
City of Selma
City of Kingsburg
City of Fowler
The County of Fresno

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 1, 2022

Media Contact: Rose Willems
rose@measurec.com | (559) 681-9369

Golden State Boulevard Improvement and Enhancement Corridor Project

Groundbreaking Event

(FRESNO COUNTY, CA) – A formal celebratory press event was held today, Tuesday, November 1, 2022, to break ground for the Golden State Boulevard Corridor Project. The event commemorated the 14-mile, $53.1 million transportation improvement project funded by Measure C, scheduled to begin its first phase of improvements in November 2022. The groundbreaking event took place at the Worship Centre off Manning Avenue in Fowler, CA.

Golden State Boulevard is a 14-mile stretch of historic Highway 99, spanning from American Avenue in Fresno County to Mission Street in the City of Kingsburg. The project area will pass through the cities of Fowler, Kingsburg, and Selma, and some unincorporated areas in Fresno County.

The Fresno County Transportation Authority (FCTA), Fresno Council of Governments (Fresno COG), the County of Fresno, the City of Fowler, the City of Kingsburg, and the City of Selma hosted the event as the project’s partnering agencies. The event was sponsored by the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, Mark Thomas, Yarbs Grading and Paving, and Vulcan Materials Company.

The Golden State project was originally approved in 2006 as a regional project identified within the Measure C Extension Expenditure Plan. Following the Measure’s passage, the Fresno Council of Governments oversaw the project’s design phase. By Spring of 2010, preliminary planning and engineering commenced and was completed two years later. The final engineering phase began in 2016 and was completed in 2021.

Due to extensive involvement with the Union Pacific Railroad, it was decided to split the project into two phases. This first phase will concentrate on improvements to Golden State itself, while phase two will begin in 2023 and construct improvements across the railroad right of way on the local streets.

The two-phase project will improve Golden State Boulevard’s overall condition and safety, as well as its cross streets and numerous Union Pacific Railroad crossings. Recognized as a “Complete Streets” solution for these south Fresno County communities, the improvements will eliminate roadway and sidewalk flooding, improve bicycle and pedestrian safety, preserve infrastructure, and beautify key entry points into each city – inviting more commercial and affordable housing development along the corridor.

“I am proud that Measure C has committed $53.1 million for the design, right-of-way and construction of the Golden State Boulevard Corridor,” said Fresno County Transportation Authority Board Chair and Fresno County Supervisor Buddy Mendes. “The breadth and scope of improvements being made for this project exemplify how important Measure C is today and for the future of Fresno County.”

“Like many historic roadways, portions of Golden State Boulevard have vanished, while others are in disrepair,” said City of Selma Mayor Scott Robertson. “And while some segments have managed to retain their historic charm, much of the roadway is in need of considerable rehabilitation.”

The improvements being made from the Golden State Boulevard Corridor Project were selected for a myriad of transportation goals including priorities like pavement condition improvements, safety, greater accessibility, economic vitality, growth and overall quality of life.

Some specific project improvements will include: pavement rehabilitation; intersection signalization and turning lanes; sidewalks, crosswalks and median improvements; street lighting; drainage facilities; buffered bike lanes and landscaping.

“This portion of Golden State Boulevard has accident rates approximately four times higher than the statewide average for similar facilities,” said City of Selma Mayor Scott Robertson. “For a four-year period, ending in December 2019, there were 137 collisions that resulted in 9 fatalities and 195 injuries. The improvements included in this project, should result in a significant reduction in total, injury, and fatal accidents.”

“Smaller cities and unincorporated areas throughout the County typically don’t have the funds available to accomplish this scale of improvements – but Measure C makes it possible for cities like Fowler, Kingsburg and Selma to not only have the funding, but maintain local control over how those funds are spent and can best benefit our residents,” said City of Fowler Mayor Pro Tem Mark Rodriguez.

“Fresno County’s diverse communities have and continue to implement plans, programs and projects to lift the area and its residents, while lowering poverty rates and creating greater access for all,” said City of Kingsburg Councilmember and Fresno County of Governments Board Chair Michelle Roman. “The Golden State Corridor Project is going to only further those efforts and drive greater economic gains to the neighboring communities.”

Golden State Boulevard Project updates will continue to be provided as milestones are met and anticipated improvements are made throughout construction.

For more information about Fresno County transportation improvement projects, visit www.MeasureC.com.

Registration is now open for the Railroad Model Competition!

Posted on

 Calling all Fresno County schools—registration is now open for the Railroad Model Competition! We’re proud to have funded this hands-on educational experience that gives students of all grade levels the tools and mentorship to design a sustainable railroad model, encouraging them to build a better future with transportation sciences. In April 2023, teams will compete to connect cities throughout California and Nevada in the most timely, fuel efficient, and cost effective way with their designed models.

Registration ends October 7th! For more information, visit FSTI Railroad Model Competition Webpage.

Download Flyer

Measure C Renewal Advances Toward Essential Local Road Improvements

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 20, 2022

Media Contact: Rose Willems, rose@measurec.com, 559.681.9369

 

(FRESNO COUNTY) – The Fresno County Transportation Authority Board has approved a Measure C Expenditure Plan designed to ensure locally controlled transportation funding that will fix local roads and provide greater investments in transit, air quality and new technologies for urban and rural communities across Fresno County.

The proposed Measure C Renewal will be the third transportation funding measure supported by Fresno County elected leaders, residents, and communities since voters passed the first measure in 1986. Measure C Renewal funding will focus largely on: fixing local roads and streets, filling potholes, repairing deteriorating neighborhood streets, installing sidewalks to help get children to school safely, reducing congestion, and supporting transit services.

The plan also invests in community-based transportation improvements in areas that have historically been overlooked – particularly in rural, low-income and minority communities. The renewal plan would allow the cities and the County to leverage hundreds of millions of dollars in state and federal matching funds that would otherwise go to other counties.

Over the last 18 months, 80 local leaders from both rural and urban communities with varied backgrounds, professions and interests participated in the Measure C Renewal’s open, public process – ensuring diverse representation of distinct sectors across the county.

Lynne Ashbeck, mayor pro tem for the City of Clovis, vice chairperson for the Fresno County Transportation Authority and co-chair of the Measure C Renewal Executive Committee says since 1986 each of the Measure C plans has been reflective of its time. The current renewal effort is no exception.

“In this current renewal effort, supported by the input from over 10,000 residents, stakeholders, cities and the County, our focus is on local neighborhoods. It is forward-thinking, ensuring we will have a transportation system that supports a strong economy, creates local jobs and connects people with where they need to go, whether that be to work, to the doctor, to school or to the grocery store. This plan holds elected leaders accountable for investing the dollars as promised, includes a Citizens Oversight Committee, has built in opportunities for continued community engagement, and accounts for new and cleaner technologies that we cannot even imagine today.”

“The Measure C allocation plan includes funding for every neighborhood,” said City of Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. “It will fix potholes, repair roads, improve safety, reduce congestion, improve air quality, and support public transit services.”

“We have confidence in this compromise plan because it reflects the priorities identified by residents throughout Fresno County over nearly 18 months of community outreach, said Fresno County Supervisor Buddy Mendes, chairman of the Fresno County Transportation Authority.”

On August 9, staff will present the Expenditure Plan before the Fresno County Board of Supervisors for a final vote, authorizing the Measure for the November 2022 ballot.

 

To learn more about the Measure C Renewal process, Expenditure Plan, and the Implementing Guidelines, please visit www.MeasureCRenewal.com.

Measure C Renewal Plan Update

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 15, 2021

Media Contact:

FCTA
Rose Willems 559-600-3282
rose@measurec.com

FCOG
Brenda Veenendaal 559-233-4148, ext. 219
brendav@fresnocog.org

Download Plan Here

(FRESNO, CA) – As part of the initial development of the Measure C Renewal Plan, the Fresno County Transportation Authority today shared a summary of the results of an initial poll conducted to gauge voter’s awareness of Measure C and their priorities for a future transportation funding measure under consideration.

Measure C was first passed in 1986 and renewed in 2006, resulting in billions of dollars of funding flowing into our community for transportation-related investments. The Measure C investments, characterized by ‘Promises Made, Promises Kept’, have allowed Fresno County to provide local jobs, improve our air quality, fix roads, avoid congestion, improve transit services and match local dollars with State and Federal funding, along with contributing to our local economy to help our Region recover from the pandemic.

The initial poll was conducted to determine voter support for another renewal of the Measure as well as to identify transportation priorities of the more than 2,500 County residents surveyed. Of those participating in the poll, 77% support the renewal of Measure C, as a half-cent sales tax to invest local dollars to improve and connect our local transportation systems.

David Cardenas, FCTA Board Member, Fresno COG Chair, and Co-Chair of the Measure C Renewal Executive Committee explained, “These results will provide the groups working on this measure a baseline of voter priorities but there is still much work to be done as we craft a plan to bring forward to the community.”

Dr. Richard Bernard, Partner with FM3 Research, highlighted the polling survey results at today’s FCTA Board meeting. The goals of this initial poll included:

  • Determine residents’ perception of transportation funding needs in Fresno County
  • Determine the public’s support for an extension of Measure C and a preferred duration
  • Provide residents with potential Measure C transportation improvements to gauge their support

The poll surveyed 2,500 respondents across eight subareas as shown on the attached map. All areas of the county were included with increased sampling in rural and disadvantaged areas of Fresno County.

Dr. Bernard went on to explain, “The sample size of the poll was close to 2,500 respondents which is more typical of a presidential election and very rare for a renewal effort on a local sales tax measure.”

The poll showed that the large majority of those surveyed preferred a measure that would be in place until voters acted to end it; that prioritized continued investments in fixing and improving local roads and highways; and kept transit fares low for students, seniors, veterans and the disabled.

Mike Leonardo, FCTA Executive Director, reinforced that the next steps in the renewal process will be for the community leaders, agencies, industries, and interest groups on the Measure C Executive Committee and Technical Working Group to review this polling information and additional data to assist in the creation of a plan that will be the best investment of local dollars and benefit all Fresno County residents. The Board will also be looking at the membership of the Executive Committee to ensure that the group best represents the various interest groups within the County. The goal is to prepare a plan for voters’ consideration on the November 2022 ballot.

Clovis City Council member Lynne Ashbeck, FCTA Vice Chair, and Co-Chair of the Measure C Renewal Executive Committee, who was also co-chair of the last Measure C renewal process in 2006, reflected on the lessons learned then that will be useful in the work ahead. “Transportation is at the center of so many parts of our communities – from roads to bike paths and trails, supporting our economy by moving goods throughout the County and State, ensuring that our residents can access healthcare, job centers, and retail services, and more. We know that Measure C is important to so many and we are committed to ensuring that all voices are heard in this process. Just as we did in 2006, I am confident we will create a Measure C Renewal Plan that will continue to set Fresno County apart as one of only twenty-five ‘Self-Help’ counties in the State.”

About Measure C

Measure C is a major part of making Fresno County a great place to live, work and play. Since 1986, the Measure C program has transformed Fresno County residents’ daily commute and quality of life through building and improving 1,200 miles of local streets, county roads and state highways. Measure C funds local and regional transit services, building trails, bike lanes and ADA facilities, while leading initiatives to better our air quality and bolster the local economy. Measure C successfully leverages local dollars with other resources to deliver billions of dollars in local transportation improvements, while providing tens of thousands of jobs. For a complete breakdown of funding initiatives, and to learn more about the Measure C Renewal Process please visit www.measurec.com.

State Route 180 Kings Canyon Expressway Completion

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 15, 2020

Media Contact: Elizabeth Yelton, 559-488-4067 elizabeth.yelton@dot.ca.gov

 

(FRESNO COUNTY) – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) along with the Fresno County Transportation Authority (FCTA) announces the completion of 4.5 miles of new highway on the State Route 180 Kings Canyon Expressway from Smith Avenue to Frankwood Avenue in the County of Fresno.

“The 180 Expansion is a major milestone, providing a 4-lane connection from Eastern Fresno County to SR99, benefitting our Region’s commerce, commuters, students, and tourists,” said Fresno County Supervisor and FCTA Board Chair Buddy Mendes.

This third and final phase of the new $54.2 million Kings Canyon Expressway will facilitate improved access to destinations within the rural areas of Eastern Fresno County. This area serves as the gateway to Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park, it links Eastern Fresno County to vital regional services, and is the primary agricultural goods and movement corridor for the region.

The new four-lane Expressway will improve the movement of people and goods, reduce travel time and increase safety for roadway users. Improvement features include an additional travel lane in each direction, construction of a new two-lane bridge over the Kings River, distinct shoulders, safer intersections and Kings River access, plus a wide median and a traffic signal at Reed Ave.

This Measure C local-funded project began in July of 2017, and was completed on time and within budget thanks to the partnership between Caltrans, FCTA, Fresno Council of Governments (FCOG), and the County of Fresno. All funding sources for the $54.2 million Expressway include Regional Transportation Improvement Program ($28.1 Million), Measure C – Fresno County Transportation Authority ($23.1 Million), State Highway Operation and Protection Program ($1.2 Million), and Federal Demonstration Funding ($1.8 Million).

“Caltrans is proud to be a part of the completion of the Kings Canyon Expressway Project,” said Caltrans District Director, Diana Gomez. “Together with Fresno County Transportation Authority, we have been able to provide an efficient and safe route for residents and visitors alike.”

In place of hosting a celebratory public ribbon-cutting event during COVID-19, the FCTA and Caltrans approached project partners for potential sponsorships focused toward supporting the community. Project partners Vulcan Materials Company and High-Light Electric Inc. each graciously gave $1,500 for a total of $3,000 that is being donated to The Sanger Forward Foundation, a 501c(3) intent on the betterment of the city of Sanger through improvement projects such as downtown revitalization and generating economic growth for the community. Additional project partners include Sanger Chamber of Commerce and Fresno Chamber of Commerce.

 

Drone footage of the completed SR180 Kings Canyon Expressway project can be accessed at:  https://measurec.com/project/state-route-180-kings-canyon-expressway/

About Measure C

Measure C is a major part of making Fresno County a great place to live, work and play. Since 1986, the Measure C program has transformed Fresno County residents’ daily commute and quality of life through building and improving 1,200 miles of local streets, county roads and state highways. Measure C funds local and regional transit services, and builds trails, bike lanes and ADA facilities, while leading initiatives to better our air quality and bolster the local economy. Measure C successfully leverages local dollars with other resources to deliver billions of dollars in local transportation improvements, while providing tens of thousands of jobs. For a complete breakdown of funding initiatives, visit www.measurec.com. To view a copy of Measure C’s 2019 annual report, visit https://measurec.com/annual-reports.

 

 

New Electric Rideshare Program ‘REV-UP’ in Rural Fresno

Posted on

FRESNO, Calif. – Today Inspiration Transportation announced the launch of REV-UP (rural electric vehicle utilization project), its new electric rideshare program available for residents in rural unincorporated communities in Fresno County. The project, in partnership with the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA), will offer $5 round trip rides in all-electric 2020 Chevy Bolts. The pilot program will launch in West Park beginning on October 5th, 2020 and will extend to other rural communities, including Biola, in the coming months.

REV-UP was developed to help fill transportation gaps in sparsely populated, low-density communities where public transit is not viable and where FCRTA is stretched to provide services for residents in need. The pilot project aims to be a vital community resource, providing access to jobs, education, and health care as well as a reduction in vehicle emissions to improve air quality.

Inspiration Transportation was involved in the Fresno Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) collaborative community engagement process and draws on local data and direct community feedback to pinpoint specific areas of need where both public transportation and air quality are in dire need of improvement. In 2019, the American Lung Association ranked Fresno at the top for being one of the most polluted cities in the country, underscoring the importance to develop, implement, and market zero-emission transportation as critical to a community’s health. Inspiration Transportation will coordinate its microtransit services alongside local, social service organizations who have expressed the need for their
clients to access low-cost or no-cost transportation to help meet their basic needs.

Matthew Gillian, founder of Inspiration Transportation, and Moses Stites, General Manager of FCRTA

“My hope is that REV-UP will inspire residents to utilize electric vehicles not only for the reliability, cost, and time-saving benefits, but also for the long-term improvements to our air quality and our community’s overall health,” said Matthew Gillian, founder of Inspiration Transportation. “The TCC process was an eye-opening experience for me, and my goal is to make sure the funds we use go directly into the community so Fresno’s most underserved residents can experience the tangible benefits of our services. I am grateful to FCRTA for their support and guidance on this inaugural project for our organization, and I
look forward to expanding our services alongside agencies throughout the Central Valley.”

Primary funding, the electric vehicle, and project coordination for Inspiration Transportation’s rural rideshare pilot comes from FCRTA. Additional project funding comes from the Central Valley Community Foundation and Beneficial State Bank.

“We are excited to partner with Inspiration Transportation on this micro-mobility project. We believe this project is bringing new alternatives that enhance accessibility for rural residents living in unincorporated communities with a reliable, safe and environmentally friendly transportation. This will provide the residents of Biola and West Park with an innovative and cost-efficient transportation option where traditional general public transit has not been a suitable option,” said Moses Stites, General Manager of FCRTA.

Rides through Inspiration Transportation’s new pilot program are offered beginning October 5th, Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, on a first-come, first-serve basis for West Park residents needing transportation into the Fresno-Clovis metropolitan area. Rides can be
requested by calling 1-800-425-1524. For more information on Inspiration Transportation and its services, please visit www.itransportev.com or email iTransportEV@gmail.com.

ABOUT INSPIRATION TRANSPORTATION

Founded in 2017, Inspiration Transportation is a 501(c)3 public charitable organization in the San Joaquin Valley with the mission of providing sustainable transportation to underserved communities. Inspiration Transportation believes it is critical to a community’s health to develop, implement, and market zero-emission transportation to its residents, and to offer low-cost or no-cost electric transportation where fixed-route, public transportation is not affordable or viable for its residents. For more information on Inspiration Transportation’s projects, partnerships, leadership, and funding sources, please visit: www.itransportev.com.

Press Contact:
Natasha Biasell
559-917-4476
natasha@ivypublicrelations.com

Back to top