M I N U T E S
VRE OPERATIONS BOARD MEETING
PRTC HEADQUARTERS – PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VIRGINIA
FEBRUARY 18, 2011
VIRGINIA RAILWAY
EXPRESS
BOARD MEMBERS
SHARON BULOVA
CHAIRMAN
WALLY COVINGTON
VICE-CHAIRMAN
MEMBERS PRESENT
Sharon Bulova (NVTC)
Maureen Caddigan (PRTC)
John Cook (NVTC)
Wally Covington (PRTC)
Frederic Howe (PRTC)
John D. Jenkins (PRTC)*
Paul Milde (PRTC)
Suhas Naddoni (PRTC)*
Paul Smedberg (NVTC)
Jonathan Way (PRTC)
Christopher Zimmerman (NVTC)*
JURISDICTION
Fairfax County
Prince William County
Fairfax County
Prince William County
City of Fredericksburg
Prince William County
Stafford County
City of Manassas Park
City of Alexandria
City of Manassas
Arlington County
MEMBERS ABSENT
Thelma Drake
Gary Skinner (PRTC)
Susan Stimpson (PRTC)
JURISDICTION
DRPT
Spotsylvania County
Stafford County
ALTERNATES PRESENT
Kevin Page
JURISDICTION
DRPT
ALTERNATES ABSENT
Marc Aveni (PRTC)
Harry Crisp (PRTC)
Mark Dudenhefer (PRTC)
Brad Ellis (PRTC)
Jay Fisette (NVTC)
Frank C. Jones (PRTC)
Rob Krupicka (NVTC)
Michael C. May (PRTC)
Jerry Logan (PRTC)
Jeff McKay (NVTC)
Martin E. Nohe (PRTC)
John Stirrup (PRTC)
JURISDICTION
City of Manassas
Stafford County
Stafford County
City of Fredericksburg
Arlington County
City of Manassas Park
City of Alexandria
Prince William County
Spotsylvania County
Fairfax County
Prince William County
Prince William County
SUSAN STIMPSON
TREASURER
PAUL SMEDBERG
SECRETARY
MAUREEN CADDIGAN
JOHN COOK
THELMA DRAKE
FREDERIC HOWE
JOHN JENKINS
PAUL MILDE
SUHAS NADDONI
GARY SKINNER
JONATHAN WAY
CHRIS ZIMMERMAN
ALTERNATES
MARC AVENI
HARRY CRISP
MARK DUDENHEFER
BRAD ELLIS
JAY FISETTE
FRANK JONES
ROB KRUPICKA
JERRY LOGAN
MICHAEL MAY
JEFF McKAY
MARTIN NOHE
KEVIN PAGE
JOHN STIRRUP
DALE ZEHNER
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER
1500 King Street, Suite 202
Alexandria, VA 22314-2730
STAFF AND GENERAL PUBLIC
Jennifer Buske – Washington Post
John Duque – VRE
Anna Gotthardt – VRE
Al Harf – PRTC staff
Christine Hoeffner – VRE
Ann King – VRE
Mike Lake – Fairfax DOT
Bob Leibbrandt – Prince William County
Steve MacIsaac – VRE counsel
April Maguigad – VRE
Betsy Massie – PRTC staff
Sirel Mouchantaf – VRE
Dick Peacock – citizen
Lynn Rivers – Arlington County
Mark Roeber – VRE
Sharmila Samarasinghe – VRE
Rick Taube – NVTC staff
Dale Zehner – VRE
** Delineates arrival following the commencement of the Board meeting. Notation of exact
arrival time is included in the body of the minutes.
Chairman Bulova called the meeting to order at 9:35 A.M. Following the Pledge of
Allegiance, roll call was taken.
Approval of the Agenda – 3
Mr. Covington moved, with a second by Mr. Howe, to accept the agenda. The vote in
favor was cast by Board Members Bulova, Caddigan, Cook, Covington, Howe, Milde,
Page, Smedberg and Way.
Approval of the Minutes of the January 21, 2011 Operations Board Meeting – 4
Mr. Milde moved, with a second by Mr. Howe, to approve the minutes. The vote in favor
was cast by Board Members Bulova, Cook, Covington, Howe, Milde, Page and Way.
Ms. Caddigan and Mr. Smedberg abstained.
[Mr. Naddoni entered the meeting at 9:37 A.M.]
Chairman’s Comments – 6
Chairman Bulova announced that VRE exceeded the 20,000 ridership mark on
Wednesday, January 19th with 20,133 riders. This new ridership high is a testament to
VRE’s outstanding culture where riders feel part of the VRE family. Management does
an outstanding job with outreach to the riders. The VRE Operations Board also has a
culture that throughout its entire history Board Members have come together and put
aside their parochial hats and worked for the benefit of VRE riders.
[Mr. Jenkins entered the meeting at 9:38 A.M.]
Chairman Bulova also announced that on-time performance (OTP) was at 86.5 percent
on the Fredericksburg line and 91.4 percent for the Manassas line during the month of
January. OTP would have been even better if there weren’t delays caused by the ice
storm. For February, OTP is currently at 97.2 system wide and if VRE manages to
maintain this, VRE will set a record for OTP.
[Mr. Zimmerman entered the meeting at 9:42 A.M.]
Chairman Bulova reviewed some of the highlights that happened during the General
Assembly session. The Governor’s proposal to fund new VRE railcars has been
increased from $2.5 million to $10 million. $5 million is also included in the Governor’s
transportation proposal for construction of the third track in Spotsylvania County. The
legislation to consolidate NVTA, NVTC and PRTC has been shelved for this session.
She stated that she is unaware of the status of the legislation dissolving the Rail
Advisory Board.
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Chief Executive Officer’s Report – 7
Mr. Zehner expressed staff’s opinion that the legislation regarding the Rail Advisory
Board will most likely pass. Mrs. Drake has offered to hold meeting with the railroads to
discuss rail issues. VRE will be able to participate. Mr. Zehner also announced that
selection of an engineering consultant for the Board Run parking structure for
environmental and preliminary engineering is underway. Plans for the Woodbridge Kiss
N’ Ride are being finalized. Four of the new locomotives are already in service. There
have been some delays with arrival of new locomotives caused by the snow storms in
the Midwest. Motive Power has two technicians working on-site at VRE yards for the
next two years during the warranty period.
Mr. Zehner stated that there have been four public hearings regarding the tariff
changes, including elimination of group fares, changes to the bicycle policy and step-up
fare reductions. Very few people have attended. There are two more hearings at Burke
and VRE offices. VRE has received more comments by email and texts. All comments
will be summarized and presented at the next Operations Board meeting.
In response to a question from Mr. Smedberg, Mr. Zehner stated that things are going
well with Keolis. Mechanical problems have been reduced and Keolis crews and
engineers have been responsive to changes VRE has made. Issues will increase as
ridership continues to rise, resulting in more standees. Chairman Bulova reminded
Board Members that the Board will conduct a strategic work session in the summer to
address how VRE deals with high ridership and future growth.
Operations Board Member’s Time – 8
Mr. Zimmerman reported that the Railvolution Conference is being held October 16-19,
2011 in Washington, D.C. There are some opportunities for individual Board Members
and VRE to participate. Chairman Bulova noted that this would be a good opportunity
to showcase VRE. Mr. Zimmerman stated that there are several VRE issues that are
relevant, including the Gainesville/Haymarket extension and Manassas development.
Mr. Covington thanked VRE staff for their hard work on the legislative reception in
Richmond. Unfortunately, the snow storm kept most people from attending. He
suggested doing a similar reception in Washington, D.C. in October for congressmen
and senators to see VRE equipment.
Mr. Howe observed that parking is continuing to climb in the City of Fredericksburg and
the Fredericksburg Bus system has seen a spike as well. As VRE growth continues to
climb, he is becoming more concerned that capacity needs to be addressed. Also, as
gasoline prices escalate, more people will transfer to transit. Mr. Zehner stated that
staff has met to discuss the issue with the City Manager and Eric Nelson has been
appointed to head up the task force. VRE staff will meet with him soon.
Mr. Milde stated that it is important to address parking capacity issues at the Brooke
and Leeland stations since the costs of adding capacity has increased. Mr. Zehner
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reported that the final design is close to being done. Mr. Mouchantaf stated that both
projects went before the county planning commission for permit review and VRE is
working through the comments. The project should be able to go out for bid in the
spring. Mr. Zehner explained that firms will be able to bid both stations together or bid
on just one. If both projects cannot be funded, Stafford County can decide which one to
do first. Mr. Milde observed that CMAQ and county funding are being used for these
projects.
VRE Riders’ and Public Comment – 9
Mr. Peacock stated that VRE’s ridership news of 20,000 daily riders is very exciting and
should be conveyed to the U.S. congressional delegation as VRE pursues funding to
meet its ridership growth. It is also important to convey to them that VRE transports
government workers, military and veterans. He stated that it is important to get Wi-Fi
installed to reward VRE’s loyal riders with enhanced service, even if there are a few
gaps in the service.
Consent Agenda – 10
Mr. Smedberg moved, with a second by Mr. Milde, to approve the following Consent
Agenda item:
Resolution #10A-02-2011: Authorization to Issue a Request for Proposals for a
Disaster Management Services Contractor
The Board voted on the motion and it unanimously passed. The vote in favor was cast
by Board Members Bulova, Caddigan, Cook, Covington, Howe, Jenkins, Milde,
Naddoni, Page, Smedberg, Way and Zimmerman.
Authorization to Amend a Task Order for Construction Phase Services for the
Fredericksburg Station Infrastructure Repairs Project – 11A
Mr. Zehner reported that Resolution #11A-02-2011 would authorize him to amend a
task order with STV/RWA for the Fredericksburg Station Infrastructure Repairs project
by $54,257, for a total not to exceed $99,302.
Mr. Zehner explained that as construction is currently underway, it has been determined
that the deterioration of the bridge and station is worse than anticipated. Due to the
severity of the deterioration, STV/RWA has been required to provide additional design
details to address various portions of concrete repairs not originally included in the
scope of the project. The City of Fredericksburg has requested that the original
condition assessment report be updated based upon the findings during construction.
Mr. Howe stated that there was a meeting with Congressman Whitman to receive help
in working with CSXT and ultimately to look for federal funding to bring the station back
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up to standard. In response to a question from Mr. Smedberg, Mr. Zehner explained
that Ralph Whitehead Associates (RWA) did the original work. Mr. Mouchantaf
explained that it will cost approximately $15,000 to update the assessment report and
the remaining funds would be used in shoring design and construction. In response to a
question from Mr. Smedberg, Mr. Mouchantaf stated that there were no mistakes made
by RWA in the original assessment, but since the structure was built in the 1920’s more
issues were uncovered once construction was started.
Mr. Smedberg moved to approve the resolution. Mr. Howe seconded. The vote in favor
was cast by Board Members Bulova, Caddigan, Cook, Covington, Howe, Jenkins,
Milde, Naddoni, Page, Smedberg, Way and Zimmerman.
Authorization to Purchase Three Low Voltage Power Supply & Battery Charger
(LVPS/BC) Units for Gallery IV Cars – 11B
Mr. Zehner stated that the VRE Operations Board is being asked to authorize him to
purchase three low voltage power supply and battery charger system units from
Transtechnik Corporation USA for the new Gallery IV cars in an amount not to exceed
$150,000, plus a contingency of $15,000, for a total amount not to exceed $165,000.
This is a sole source procurement because it is important to have the inventory parts to
be exactly the same as the original parts. Resolution #11B-02-2011 would accomplish
this.
Mr. Zehner explained that the warranty period has ended for the base and option order
cars (50 cars) and by next year all 71 cars will be out of warranty. At that time, VRE will
be responsible for 100 percent of the repair and maintenance of the LVPS/BC system.
VRE currently only has one spare unit as part of its capital spare inventory. VRE needs
to purchase three additional units in order to insure an adequate spare ratio and to
maintain its maintenance repair service schedule.
Mr. Covington moved, with a second by Mr. Milde, to approve Resolution #11B-022011.
Mr. Way asked why routine maintenance issues are coming to the Board for approval.
Mr. Zehner explained that the Operations Board has given him purchase authority up to
$50,000. Mr. Way suggested staff conduct a brief study of what actions need to come
to the Board and if the authorization limit should be increased. Mr. Milde expressed his
opinion that the process seems to work fine. Mr. Smedberg suggested similar actions
could be incorporated into the Consent Agenda. Mr. Covington agreed. Mr. Page
observed that recently the Commonwealth Transportation Board granted authority up to
$200,000 with the understanding that they would receive quarterly updates.
Mr. Zimmerman noted that three levels have been discussed: increasing the threshold
amount, substantially increasing it, or including the items in the Consent Agenda. He
expressed his opinion that he does not see what is broken here and, therefore, does not
see a need for a change. Ms. Caddigan noted that if items like these where included in
the Consent Agenda, members could pull the item for discussion if needed. Mr. Milde
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again stated that there have been no issues or problems with the current way of doing it
and he does not see the $50,000 threshold as a problem. Chairman Bulova suggested
staff look at this issue and return with a report at a future meeting.
The Board then voted on Resolution #11B-02-2011. The vote in favor was unanimous.
The vote in favor was cast by Board Members Bulova, Caddigan, Cook, Covington,
Howe, Jenkins, Milde, Naddoni, Page, Smedberg, Way and Zimmerman.
Authorization to Purchase Two Ventilation and Air Conditioning (VAC) Units for Gallery
IV Cars – 11C
Mr. Zehner explained that Resolution #11C-02-2011 would authorize him to purchase
two ventilation and air conditioning systems units from Transitair Systems LLC for the
new Gallery IV cars. This authorization is being requested in an amount not to exceed
$70,000, plus a contingency of $7,000, for a total amount not to exceed $77,000. Mr.
Zehner explained that similar to the last agenda item, VRE needs to purchase spare
units to maintain an adequate spare ratio to be used as a replacement during repairs
and overhauls.
Mr. Milde moved, with a second by Ms. Caddigan, to approve the resolution. The vote
in favor was cast by Board Members Bulova, Caddigan, Cook, Covington, Howe,
Jenkins, Milde, Naddoni, Page, Smedberg, Way and Zimmerman.
Wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) on VRE Trains – 12A
Mr. Zehner reminded Board Members that this idea was initially conceived to provide a
low cost solution to provide Wi-Fi service on VRE trains. After further review by staff,
this hardware approach has been deemed inadequate since it is important that Wi-Fi is
available on all railcars; must be expandable to meet new 4G requirements; and should
be scalable to meet future VRE needs. Mr. Zehner reviewed the pros and cons of both
approaches. Staff is recommending a solutions approach because it provides the
greatest opportunity to maximize Wi-Fi capability for VRE.
Mr. Zehner stated that the estimate for capital costs for the hardware approach is about
$500,000 and between $1.2-$1.3 million for the solutions approach. Operating costs
would be roughly the same for both ($250,000 annually). In response to a question
from Mr. Milde, Mr. Zehner responded that no commuter railroad system charges its
customers for Wi-Fi service. Mr. Milde asked if staff has considered charging a fee to
recoup some of the capital expenditures. Mr. Zehner responded that it would limit
usage and there is an expectation from passengers that it would be free. Mr. Howe
agreed with Mr. Milde and stated that VRE could offer a “hot spot” service and VRE
could charge a fee for premium uninterrupted service to help defray the capital
expenses.
Mr. Way asked what would be the chance the passengers would just pass the web code
to each other if there was a charge. Mr. Duque stated that it would only work for the
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first individual who paid for the code. Mr. Covington asked if staff had looked at
contracting with companies to pay to put up cell phone towers. Mr. Page suggested
VRE market itself as a moving cell phone tower and become part of a spider network.
He urged staff to talk with cell phone companies to see if this is possible. Mr. Zehner
stated that staff is working on how to fund this project, but it requires waiting until
summer to return back to the Operations Board with a recommendation.
Mr. Milde stated that VRE does not have extra money. Staff needs to look at options of
charging a one-time fee for this service. Stafford County now requires VRE to have free
space on any new cell phone tower installed in the county. VRE may be able to
leverage this somehow in the negotiations. Mr. Way stated that he has some concerns
with spending $1.3 million plus another $250,000 in operating costs for free service.
Mr. Cook expressed his opinion that this is an excellent proposal. Technology is
moving so fast. Two years from now, people will expect to have internet service
available. A solutions approach is a good idea. VRE should always be on the cutting
edge of technology. Mr. Howe agreed that it is a great suggestion. It is scalable and
cutting edge and has the capability to expand new technology changes. He stated that
he wants an option to charge a fee versus not providing the service. He stated that it is
important to look for a vehicle that is state-of-the-art and be able to revenue collect on
that system.
In response to a question from Mr. Smedberg and a second by Mr. Milde, the Board
authorized staff to come forward with an approach looking at different funding options
and return back to the Board. Mr. Milde stated that it is not the intent of the motion to
ask staff to go out to RFP. Mr. Smedberg agreed.
Mr. Naddoni stated that Wi-Fi as a value added is an excellent solution for riders, but
keeping costs in context as well as advancements in technology, any Wi-Fi solution
should be thought of as a short-term solution. Most iPads and other devices already
require a data plan. Within two years, it will become mainstream. Keep that in
perspective. Operational costs will also be lower.
Mr. Zimmerman agrees with the basic premise that it is not worth doing something small
scale. He suspects a user charge will not be practical, but it still should be analyzed.
There may be some kind of industry solution. If VRE cannot afford to do it right or not
sure there is a robust lasting approach to this technology, it might be reasonable not to
do it. He thinks Wi-Fi would be very attractive, but it may be a good idea to wait.
Mr. Jenkins assumes the motion specifies that staff is going with the solutions
approach. Mr. Covington stated that Wi-Fi services would enhance employers to get
more work out of their employees while they are on the trains. There may be some
funding here. The federal government is advocating telework and although this is more
“commute work” it gets more productivity out of employees. It would help to leverage
people riding different trains to alleviate overcrowding since they could work on the
trains. He is excited about this project.
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Mr. Way suggested the motion does not endorse or imply a completely free service.
Chairman Bulova stated that this is understood. Mr. Milde stated that staff should look
at different fee options and capitalization of initial expenses. Mr. Page stated that every
jurisdiction should share their promulgation maps, which show “hot spots,” to VRE staff.
The Board then voted on the motion and it passed. The vote in favor was cast by Board
Members Bulova, Caddigan, Cook, Covington, Howe, Jenkins, Milde, Naddoni, Page,
Smedberg, Way and Zimmerman.
Train Capacity and Standees – 12B
Mr. Zehner stated that as ridership goes up, peak trains become more crowded with
standees. Half of all peak trains are at or over capacity. Riders become disgruntled as
they believe that they have paid for a seat. Staff is working with Keolis, CSX and
Amtrak on the possibility of turning back a Manassas Line train. When Mr. Zehner first
approached CSX about this, they were concerned that there were no break downs.
Now that VRE has more control over its mechanical issues, he will again approach
CSX. A turn back train would add 420 more seats. Reducing the step-up fare would
add another 200-400 seats.
Mr. Zehner stated that following the public hearings, staff will return at the March
meeting with recommendations on group fares, bicycles and step-up fares. In response
to a question from Mr. Milde, Mr. Zehner stated that staff has been talking to DRPT staff
about the state buying down the step-up charge. VRE submitted a grant application for
this. Mr. Page stated that DRPT is passionate about filling seats throughout the
corridor, not just VRE seats. Mr. Harf asked if this state funding would be a onetime
funding or reoccurring. Mr. Page stated that this is still being determined.
Mr. Smedberg asked if VRE is looking to target riders impacted by the BRAC changes
in the Alexandria and Fairfax area. Mr. Zehner responded because they would only ride
one or two stops he is not sure how VRE would serve them, but VRE will watch to see
what happens with the recommendations. Chairman Bulova noted that Fairfax County
has included bus plans to meet some of these needs.
Adjournment
Without objection, Chairman Bulova adjourned the meeting at 11:10 A.M.
Approved this 18th day of February, 2011.
_____________________________
Sharon Bulova
Chairman
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_____________________________
Paul Smedberg
Secretary
CERTIFICATION
This certification hereby acknowledges that the minutes for the February 18, 2011
Virginia Railway Express Operations Board Meeting have been recorded to the best of
my ability.
Rhonda Gilchrest
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