The Northwest Vermont TOD project is unique in that it investigates the possibility of Transit-Oriented Development in a rural state like Vermont with limited transit (bus) connections outside the urban core of Chittenden County. This SOW section provides high-level information about the specific tasks to be accomplished, and consultants are encouraged to propose additional sub-tasks to meet the goals of the project as articulated in this RFP. Task 1: Transit Ridership Forecast and New or Improved Services Develop a comprehensive transit ridership forecast and investigate the feasibility of new and improved bus (first priority) and/or rail (second priority) services; please note that all TOD areas are close to existing and active rail lines. These forecasts should take into account the increased land use density and increased ridership potential of the TOD areas. • Conduct detailed transit demand analysis using future demographic, land-use, and economic data (e.g., current, and projected population, employment, and activity centers within the fivecounty study area). • Based on ridership forecasts developed, identify potential new or improved bus and/or commuter rail services and estimate their capital and operating costs. Use forecasting tools and models to determine the feasibility and efficiency of bus and/or rail transit services connecting TOD areas with employment centers in the five-county area. • During this task there will be extensive engagement with the transit providers, rail operators, state agencies, participating municipalities, and other stakeholders. Task 2: Financing and Governance Strategy A transit Financial Plan and potential new Governance Structure will then be developed in partnership with participating regional planning commissions (RPC) and municipalities, transit providers, rail operators (if applicable), and the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans). Activities under this task could include (as appropriate) but are not limited to the following: • Value capture strategies to leverage increases in land value and TOD revenues. • Opportunity Zone investment funds. • Public-private partnerships and other innovative financing mechanisms. • Examine transit governance structures including existing transit providers, public/private partnerships, or new organizations.
