HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-03-28 22-139 OrderCITY COUNCIL ACTION
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IN CITY COUNCIL
MARCH 28, 2022
CO 22-139
Motion made and seconded for Passage of Consent Agenda
Vote: 6 – 0
Councilors Voting Yes: Davitt, Hawes, Schaefer, Tremble, Yacoubagha, Fournier
Councilors Voting No: None
Passed
CITY CLERK
TITLE VI
T ITLE VIP ROGRAM U PDATE
J UNE 1,2022–M AY 31,2025
Effective: December 26, 2012
Revised: March 2016
Approved: July 22, 2019
Revised: December 2016
Revised: June2019/ Approved: July 2019
Revised: February2022
Approved: March 2022
207-992-4670
Title VI Coordinator Contact Information
Laurie Linscott, Superintendent, Community Connector, 475 Maine Avenue, Bangor, Maine, 04401, 207-992-
4672 and email: laurie.linscott@bangormaine.gov. Additional information relating to nondiscrimination can be
obtained from the Title VI Coordinator.
C ONTENTS
Title VI Coordinator Contact Information..................................................................................................................2
INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................................................................................4
GENERAL REQUIREMENT............................................................................................................................................6
Notice to the Public............................................................................................................................................6
Your Civil Rights.................................................................................................................................................8
Title VI Complaint Procedure.............................................................................................................................8
Community Connector Title VI Investigations..................................................................................................9
Record Keeping..................................................................................................................................................10
Community Connector Public Participation Plan............................................................................................................11
Public Participation Process..............................................................................................................................11
Community Connector LEP Analysis and Plan...............................................................................................................12
The Four Factor Analysis...................................................................................................................................12
Language Assistance Plan...........................................................................................................................................18
Outcome.............................................................................................................................................................18
Oversight...........................................................................................................................................................18
Training..............................................................................................................................................................19
Contractors, Subcontractors and Vendors........................................................................................................19
Title VI Analysis for Facility Construction.........................................................................................................19
Decision Making Bodies..............................................................................................................................................19
Elected Councils.................................................................................................................................................19
Non-Decision Making Working Groups.............................................................................................................20
Service Standards and Policies....................................................................................................................................20
Vehicle Loadsand Vehicle Headway (frequency).............................................................................................20
On-Time Performance.......................................................................................................................................21
Service Availability -Access to the Bus............................................................................................................22
Vehicle Assignment Policy.................................................................................................................................22
Transit Amenities...............................................................................................................................................22
APPENDIX A..............................................................................................................................................................23
APPENDIX B..............................................................................................................................................................25
APPENDIX C..............................................................................................................................................................31
ATTACHMENTD.………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………………….31
INTRODUCTION
City of Bangor Community Connector Commitment to Civil Rights
This update of City of Bangor Community Connector Title VI program has been prepared to
ensure that the level and quality of Community Connector fixed route and ADA paratransit
services are provided in a nondiscriminatory manner and that the opportunity for full and
fair participation is offered to the riders and other community members. Additionally,
through this program, Community Connector has examined the need for services and
materials for persons for whom English is not their primary language and whohave a limited
ability to read, write, speak, or understand English. As a direct recipient of Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) funds, the City of Bangor Community Connector, is required to submit
a Title VI Plan to the FTA Region 1 office every threeyears.
City of Bangor Community Connector (all Federal agencies) are to examine the
services they provide, identity any need for services to those with limited English
proficiency, and develop and implement a system to provide those services so LEP
persons can have meaningful access to them.
Executive Order 13116
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 4
Under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and as arecipient of Federal funding under the programs
ofthe Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the US Department of Transportation (US DOT),
Community Connector has an obligation to ensure that:
The benefits of its’bus services are shared equitably throughout the service area;
The level and quality of bus services are sufficient to provide equal access to all riders
in its service area;
No one is precluded from participating in Community Connector service planning and
development process;
Decisions regarding service changes or facility locations are made without regard to
race, color, or national origin and that development and urban renewal benefitting a
community as a whole not be unjustifiably purchased through the disproportionate
allocation of its adverse environmental and health burdens on the communitys’
minority population; and
A program is in place for correcting any discrimination, whether intentional or
unintentional.
This program contains all of the elements required of a transit provider operating in an
urbanized area of 50,000 or more in population and operating less than fifty vehicles in peak
service. It supersedes Community Connectors’Title VI Program of 2019and is effective
2022. It has been prepared using data from the most U. S. Census.
In accordance with 49 CFR section 21.7 (a), every application Community Connector submits
for financial assistance to FTA must be accompanied by an assurance that Community
Connector will carry out the program in compliance with the Department of Transportations’
Title VI regulations. This requirement is fulfilled when Community Connector submits its
annual certifications and assurances (C&A) to FTA. Community Connector maintains a hard
copy of the signed C&A’s on file with signatures from its City of Bangor Legal and City
Manager. Those assurances are uploaded into FTA’s Transit Award Management System
(TrAMS) software.
Community Connector does not contract with sub recipients and therefore does not collect
C&A’s from any other providers.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 5
GENERAL REQUIREMENT
Notice to the Public:
Community Connector alertsits passengers and othercommunity members of theirCivil
Rights andcomplaint process under Title VI using the following:
The short notice will be included in documents with:
Signage on Community Connector ADA Paratransit Vans;
Signage on Community Connector Fixed Route Buses;
Signage on Service Brochureand System Timetable
City of Bangor Community Connector
Title VI Short Notice
The Community Connector operates its programs and services without regard to race,
color, and national origin in accordance with Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. To
find out more about our nondiscrimination obligations, to file a complaint, or to request
this information in another language, please contact us at 207-992-4670.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 6
The long notice will be prominently and publicly displayed at:
City of Bangor website available on the “Title VI” section of the Community
Connector page www.bangormaine.gov/titlevi
Signage at the Community Connector Transit Center and Administration Office
Additionally, specialized training or assistance is provided to disabled or visually
impaired customersupon request
City of Bangor Community Connector
Title VI Long Notice
City of Bangor Community Connector operates its programs and services
without regard to race, color, or national origin in accordance with Title VI of
the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Any person who believes that she or he has been
aggrieved by any unlawful discriminatory practice under Title VI may file a
complaint with our agency.
Any such complaint must be in writing and filed with this agency within 180
days following the date of the alleged discriminatory occurrence. For
information on our nondiscrimination obligations or how to file a complaint,
please contact Community Connector by any of the methods listed below.
City of BangorCommunity Connector
475 Maine Ave. Bangor, Maine 04401
Phone: 207-992-4670Fax: 207-945-4992
Email: community.connector@bangormaine.gov
If you need the notices in another language please contact us.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 7
Y OUR C IVIL R IGHTS
City of Bangor Community Connector operates its program and services without
regard to race, color, and national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil
Rights Act. Any person who believes they have been aggrieved by any unlawful
discriminatory practice under Title VI may file a complaint with Community
Connector. For more information on Community Connector civil rights program
and the procedures to file a complaint, please contact 207-992-4670; email
community.connector@bangormaine.govor visit our administrative office at 475
Maine Ave., Bangor, Maine 04401, from 8am to 4pm Monday through Friday. A
complainant may file a complaint directly with the Federal Transit Administration
(FTA) by filing a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. For more information about City of Bangor
Community Connector programs and services, visit www.bangormaine.gov. If
information is needed in another language, please call 207-992-4670.
T ITLE VIC OMPLAINT P ROCEDURE
Any person who believes theyhavebeen discriminated against on the basis of race, color, or
national origin by the City of Bangor Community Connector (hereinafter referred to as “the
agency”) may file a Title VI complaint by completing and submitting the agency’s Title VI
Complaint Form. See Appendix A.
How do you file a complaint?
The form is available on the City of BangorCommunity Connector website at
www.bangormaine.gov/communityconnectoror you may request a copy by writing or
phoning Community Connector at 475 Maine Ave. Bangor, Maine 04401 or call 207-992-
4670. You may file a signed, dated and written complaint by email to
community.connector@bangormaine.gov, or mail to the address above.
How will your complaint be handled?
Civil rights complaints should be filed immediately. City of Bangor Community Connector,
Title VI Coordinatorwill investigate complaints received no more than 180 days after the
alleged incident. The Community Connector, Title VI Coordinator will process complaints that
are complete. Once a completed complaint is received, the Title VI Coordinator will review it
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 8
to determine if Community Connector has jurisdiction. The complainant will receive an
acknowledgement letter informing themwhetheror notthe complaint will be investigated by
City of Bangor Community Connector.
Community Connector has 30 days to investigate the complaint. If more information is
needed to resolve the case, the Title VI Coordinator may contact the complainant. The
complainant has 30 business days from the date of the letter to send requested information
to the Title VI Coordinator (investigator)assigned to the case. If the Title VI Coordinator
(investigator)is not contacted by the complainant or does not receive the additional
information within 30 business days, Community Connector can administratively close the
case. A case can also be administratively closed if the complainant no longer wishes to
pursue theircase.
After an investigation is complete, the Title VI Coordinator will issue one of two lettersto the
complainant,a closure letter or a letter of finding (LOF). A closure letter summarizesthe
results of the investigation, and states that there was not a Title VI violation and that the
case is closed. A LOF summarizes the findings and advising of any corrective action to be
taken as a result of the investigation.
If a complainant disagrees with the Title VI Coordinator’s determination, theymay request
reconsideration by submitting a request in writing to City of Bangor City Manager’sOffice
within seven (7) days after the date of City of Bangor Community Connector letter, stating
with specificity the basis for the reconsideration.
The City of Bangor City Manager’s Office will notify the complainant of thedecision either to
accept or reject the request for reconsiderationwithin 10days. In cases where
reconsideration is granted, the City Manageror designee will issue a determination letter to
the complainant upon completion of the reconsideration review.
A person may also file a complaint directly with the Federal Transit Administration, at FTA
Office of Civil Rights, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. If information is
needed in another language, then contact City of Bangor Community Connector at 207-992-
4670.
C OMMUNITY C ONNECTOR T ITLE VII NVESTIGATIONS
There have been no Title VI investigations, complaints or lawsuits filed with the agency
during the past two calendar years.In the event that there are any investigations, complaints
or lawsuits in the future, Community Connector will document these incidentselectronically
recording the date, summary, status and action(s) taken.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 9
R ECORD K EEPING
The Title VI Coordinator shall maintain permanent records which include, but are notlimited
to, copies of Title VIcomplaints or lawsuits and related documentation, and records of
correspondence to and from complainants, and Title VI investigations.As of the writing of
this program, there are no service complaints pending which allege discrimination on the
grounds of race, color, national origin or any other form of discrimination.
TYPEDATESUMMARY(include STATUSACTION(S)
TAKEN
basis of complaint:
(Month,
race, color, or national
Day,
origin)
Year)
Complaints
Investigations
Lawsuits
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 10
COMMUNITY CONNECTOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
Community Connector’s Public Participation Plan (PPP) has been
prepared to ensure that no one is precluded from participating in
Community Connector’s service planning and development
process.
Community Connector has developed a public participation plan
to encourage and guide public involvement efforts and enhance
accessto Community Connector’s decision-making process by
minorityand Limited English Proficient (LEP) populations.
CommunityConnector will use its public participation plan when
considering fare changes, route modifications, and service
reductions.Community Connector’sPublic Participation Plan is
attachedinAppendix B.
P UBLIC P ARTICIPATION P ROCESS
Outreach Efforts
City of Bangor Community Connector has actively sought
interactions and input with and from the public on a regular
basis, without regardto race, color or nationalorigin including
languages spoken.
Community Connector has identified several points of interaction
between staff and the public. These interactions are through
publicmeetings, university orientation sessions, public outreach,
publicsurveys, and displayed materials.
These outreach efforts are aimed at helping organizations with
LEPpopulations and the general public understand the transit
servicesprovided by Community Connectorand allowing
engagement withorganizations all over the service area.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 11
While allof the meetingsare open to the public, some of the meetings are focused on
smaller groups with a unique interest.
Community Connector also makesavailable one-on-one trainingto help passengers learn
how to navigate the transitsystem throughthe volunteer Bus Ambassador program.
Community Connector has provided training to the Bus Ambassadors on Title VI. This
opportunity is great for the LEP population since it provides one-on-one training and the time
to really explain how our transit system works.
COMMUNITY CONNECTORLEP ANALYSIS AND PLAN
LEP refers to person for whom English is
not their primary language and who have
a limited ability to read, write, speak, or
understand English. It includes people
who reported to theU. S. Census that
they speak English less than very well,
not well, or not at all.
The Four Factor Analysis
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 12
Limited English Proficient (LEP)
Factor#1: The Number of LEP Persons in Service Region
The first step toward understanding the extent of the LEP population in Community
Connector’s service area is a review of Census data. The data for this review is derived from
the United States Census Bureau web portal data from the 2019American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates. The analysis of Census data shows that the number and percentage of
persons who speak English less than “very well”within four major groups in each of the six
municipalities served by Community Connector falls belowthe safe harbor provision of 1,000
personor 5% threshold. Also,Community Connectorutilizessurveys ofthe Universities and
Colleges in our service area to understand the number and percentage of students, faculty
and staff who speak English less than “very well.” This is because the largest diversity for
our area comes from the local colleges and universities.
SAFE HARBOR PROVISION
DOT has adopted DOJ’s Safe Harbor Provision, which outlines circumstances that can
provide a “safe harbor” for recipients regarding translation of written materials for LEP
populations. The Safe Harbor Provision stipulates that, if a recipient provides written
translation of vital documents for each eligible LEP language group that constitutes five
(5%)or 1,000 persons, whichever is less, of the total population of persons eligible to be
served or likely to be affected or encountered, then such action will be considered strong
evidence of compliance with the recipient’s written translation obligations. These safe
harbor provisions apply to the translation of written documents only.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 13
Table 1
Summary of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Persons 5 Years and Older
Community Connector Service Area
Persons Speaking English less than “very well”Total
MunicipalityTotal 5 %
SpanishOther Indo-Asian and Other
Persons
European Pacific
Threshold
LanguagesIsland
Languages
Bangor32,095160537390076
Brewer909045500000
Hampden735236800000
Old Town747437400000
Orono9541477012351259
Veazie199910004004
Total 67551337937553512139
Universities Total 5 %SpanishOther Indo-Asian and OtherTotal
and or Colleges Students European Pacific
Threshold
Enrolled LanguagesIsland
and Languages
Facility/
Staff
University of 11,404705000702702
Maine+2689=
14093
Eastern Maine 2396 + 136007815
Community 314=2710
College
Beal University272 +501600000
=322
Husson 37621840007272
University
UMA Bangor7453700000
Total 216321078007782789
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2019American Community Survey and
TheIndividual College/University Responsesfrom 2021
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 14
In addition to the analysis of census data, Community Connectorhas contacted the five
colleges and universities within its service area and determined that the inclusion of LEP
populations at these institutions does notincrease any language group above the1,000
personor 5% threshold. Even if it is assumed that each international student is an LEP
individual, the LEP populations at these institutions are well below the safe harbor threshold,
except for UMainewhichis close to the threshold of 5%. UMainehas a 5% threshold of 705,
the international population is 702,however, UMaine doesn’t have statistics on LEP
population,only international studentsmany of whom are known to speak Englishas a
second language. UMaine does not have records available regardingthe LEP status of each
student.
It should be noted thatsome of the schools werenot able to provide information detailing
the specific languages spoken by its international students. HussonUniversity,along with
UMaine,require InternationalEnglish Language Testing System (IELTS) and Test of English
as Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores for its international students, which indicated that no
individual’sEnglish proficiency was below the intermediate/fair range. Hussonand UMaine
asserted thatit requires international applicants to submit official copies of IELTS or TOEFL
scoresthat indicate English competency. Additionally, Husson stated that it has a bridge
program for any LEP students, which prepares them to take courses at the University.
Further, it should be noted that the University of Maine at Augusta(UMA)was unable to
provideany information concerning LEP populations at its Bangor campus. UMA requiresall
applicants whose native language is not English tosubmit an official IELTS or TOEFL score
indicating English proficiency.
Community Connector will continue to collaborate with the colleges and universities in its’
service area to monitor any changes in the LEP populations at these institutions.Community
Connector concludesthat the LEP population is less than 5% of the service population and
that does not require us to provide written materials in any language but English.
City of Bangor Community Connector is committed to ensuring that no person(s) is excluded
from participating in or denied the benefits of Community Connector services, due to a
limited ability to read, write, speak or understand English. If you need any assistance please
contact the Title VI Coordinator.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 15
Factor #2: The Frequency of LEP Use
There are a large number of places where Community Connector passengers and members
of the LEP population may come into contact with the Community Connector services
including the use of fixed route and paratransit, calls to dispatch,and outreach materials.
An important part of the development of the Language Access Plan is the assessment of
major points of contact, including:
Use of the bus service (on-board signage, announcements and driver language skills)
Communication with dispatch
Buying Bus passesand ticketslocations
Printed outreach materials
Web-based outreach materials
Public meetings
Paratransit reservations agents
Local news media
Automatic on-boardbuses announcements and
Service related posters at thesoon to be Transit Center
To better understand the frequency with which LEP passengers come into contact with
Community Connector services, Community Connector conducted an internal surveywith the
transit operatorsand staff. The survey tool was aimed at determining what language skills
already exist among Community Connector employees and the number and nature of
encounters with passengers or other community members where language has been a
barrier. Community Connector distributed a LEP survey to its transit drivers and dispatchers.
The first question asked employees as if they could communicate in a language other than
English, and if so, what language or languages. The Community Connector employees speak
3different languages; Spanish, Russian, and Italian, twoemployees reported they would
willingly serve as translator when needed. 12of 27transit operators returned the survey.
The survey alsoshowed that transit operators come in contract with LEP passengers less
than monthly.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 16
Community Partners
As part of this assessment the Community Connector surveyed all five of the municipal
partners to assess the extent to which they come into contact with LEP populations.
Community Connector asked the partners to estimate the percent of clients they interact with
who would have LEP using a questionnaire. The municipalities did report they do encounter
LEP populations at their municipal offices,however, the persons can speak enough English to
be helped. The municipalities reported that they do not translate any documents. It was
also reported that some staff can speak Spanish and American Sign Language. It was
understood that everyone who needs services can speak or write English enough to be
helped.
Factor #3: The Importance of the Community Connector Service to Peoples’Lives
Access to services provided by Community Connector, both fixed route and ADA paratransit,
are critical to the lives of many in the region. Many depend on Community Connector fixed
route services for access to jobs and essential community services like schools, shopping and
medical appointments. Riders eligible for service under the ADA require service for the same
reasons. Because of the essential nature of the services,and the importance of these
programs in the lives of many of the region’s residents, there is a need to ensure that
language is not a barrier to access.
The Community Connector is the only public transportation for people in wheelchairs or
people that do not own vehicleswithin the urbanized area. At this point in time, the
Community Connector system has limited interaction with LEP population. The colleges and
universities would be the leading place to interact withthis populationastheyall require the
incoming students to have intermediate/fair range in English proficiency. Even if it is
assumed that each international student is an LEP individual, the LEP populationsat these
institutions are below the safe harbor threshold.
Factor #4: The resources available and overall costs to provide LEP outreach
Community Connector has limited resources available to improving access to its services and
programs for LEP persons. The cost predominantly associated with translation services are
extremely high and aredifficult to find in our service region.
Community Connector will provide notice to LEP persons about the availability of language
assistance on the buses, at the Community Connector office and on our website. In addition,
Community Connector will ask if language assistance is needed when conducting public
meetings.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 17
Community Connector has reached out to Literacy Volunteers of Bangor and will work with
them to improve the access to our services and programs for LEP Persons. This will be an
on-going relationship and together we will understand more of the needs in our service area.
Community Connector has also reached out to MulticulturalCenter of Bangor for their
expertise on this topic and we look forward to working with them.
LANGUAGE ASSISTANCE PLAN
O UTCOME
At the date of this Title VI Program update, no LEP populations in our service area met the
Safe Harbor threshold of 1,000 individuals for a particular language therefore, the only
language notices are provided inis English.
Based on the four-factoranalysis, Community Connector developed its LEP Plan based on
this information. Community Connector does not translate vital documents into other
languagesin paper form. The City of Bangor Community Connector continues to provide
meaningful access to its’transit service, programs, and activities through its’website
www.bangormaine.govand the public can translate this notice and others via Google
translate. Community Connector will also postTitle VI posters at the Administrative Office
and at other prominent places. Community Connector will offer videos on their website to
explain how to ride the bus and how to read the schedule with voice and closed caption
options.
O VERSIGHT
Community Connector staff will ensure compliance with Community Connector’s Title VI
Program, to include the Public Participation Plan, Language Assistance Plan and the other
community outreach efforts. The Community Connector’s Title VI Coordinator willreview
the Title VI Program, FTA requirements, and any developments that would impact the plan
including complaints and requests for language assistance services. Based on this review,
Community Connector’s Language Assistance Plan will be updated accordingly.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 18
T RAINING
Community Connectoremployees will be trained onthe Title VI Policy and Complaint
Procedures when they are hired and whenever the policy isupdated(every three years).
Staff is instructed of the resources available to them to interact with an LEP person and what
to do if difficulties arise with communications. The full Title VI Program will be available on
the Community Connector website www.bangormaine.gov/titlevi.
C ONTRACTORS,S UBCONTRACTORS AND V ENDORS
All contractors, subcontractors,and vendors who receive payments from Community
Connector where funding originates from any federal assistance are subject to the provisions
of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,as amended. Written contracts shall contain non-
discrimination language, either directly or through the bid specification package which isan
associated component of the contract.
T ITLE VIA NALYSIS FOR F ACILITY C ONSTRUCTION
Community Connector has not constructed a facility in the last three years. However,
Community Connector is currently constructing a new transit center on City property. The
construction of the new transit center is being built at the same location as the old bus
depot. The transit system will operate the same as it has done in the past, no changes to
routes and or schedules. Construction of any such facility will require a Title VI analysis with
regardsto the location of the facilityand the requirements in the FTA Circular 4702.1B.
DECISION MAKING BODIES
E LECTED C OUNCILS
According to FTA Circular 4702.1B, recipients that have a transit-related, non-elected
planning boards, advisory councils or committees, or similar bodies, the membership of which
is selected by the recipient, must provide a table depicting the racial breakdown of the
membership of those committees, and a description of efforts made to encourage the
participation of minorities on such committees or councils.
Community Connector is governed by the Bangor City Council, an electedbody consisting of
nine members. The racial breakdown of the City Council is not collected.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 19
N ON-D ECISION-M AKING W ORKING G ROUPS
Community Connector also works with two working groups-theMunicipal Partners and
Transportation for All (TFA). The Municipal Partners group are stakeholders that pay the City
of Bangor for their transit service. Transportation for All is a group of bus riders, clergy, bus
drivers, and supporters working for a strong bus system. The two groups meet separately to
discuss routes, schedules and other topics important to the community and our passengers
and contribute valuable ideas to Community Connector planning and operations.
Additionally, matters may be referred by both the City of Bangor or City of Bangor
Community Connector staff to the City of Bangor’s Advisory Committee on Racial Equity,
Inclusion, and Human Rights for review and recommendation to the Community Connector.
SERVICE STANDARDSAND POLICIES
V EHICLE L OADS
The average of all loads during the peak operating period should not exceed the vehicles’
achievable capacities, asshown in the table below. Vehicle load is expressed as the ratio of
passengers to the total number of seats on a vehicle.
Bus Type Vehicle Load Standard
Seated CapacityTotal CustomersPercentage
5-2011 Gillig 35 ft 31 54 1.74%
1-2004 Gillig 30 ft 29 41 1.44%
4-2003 New Flyer 35 ft 30 53 1.77%
2-2017 Gillig 29ft28401.43%
2- 2018 Gillig 29ft28 40 1.43%
8- 2019 Gillig 29ft28 40 1.43%
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 20
V EHICLE H EADWAY(F REQUENCY)
Vehicle headway is the amount of time between two buses traveling in the same direction on
a given route. Community Connector buses are scheduled with a variety of frequencies
based generally on demand. Routes are schedule in 30-and 60-minutefrequencies.
Community Connector will also consider a number of factors,including contract financial
support, cost, ridership productivity, and the density of transit population densities and
activities.
The Community Connector provides service every 30 minutes onfour of the routes
(Capehart, Center Street, Hammond Street, Black Bear Orono Express) and every 60 minutes
on the remaining routesfor regular service only, as shown in the table below.
WeekdaySaturday
RouteHeadwayHeadway
Capehart30 minutes30minutes
Hammond Street30 minutes60 minutes
Center Street30 minutes60 minutes
Black Bear Orono Express30 minutesN/A*
Brewer South60 minutes60 minutes
Brewer North60 minutes60 minutes
Hampden60 minutesN/A*
Mall Hopper60 minutes60 minutes
Old Town60 minutes120 minutes
Stillwater60 minutes60 minutes
Mount Hope60 minutes60 minutes
* The Hampden Route and Black Bear Orono Express does not operate on Saturday.
O N-T IME P ERFORMANCE
Among the most important service standard for riders is on-time performance or adherence
to published schedules.
A transit vehicle is considered on time if it departs a scheduled time-point no more
than 2minutesearly and no more than 5 minutes late.
The Community Connectors’on-time performance objective is 90% or greater.
Ninety-five percent (95%) of Community Connector transit vehicles will complete their
established runs no more than 5 minutes late in comparison to the published timetables. The
exception will be inclement weather,such as a major snowstormor any road detours.
Community Connector continuously monitors on-time performance.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 21
S ERVICE A VAILABILITY-A CCESS TO THE B US
Community Connector distributes transit service in a waythat 95% of all residents in the City
of Bangor’s urbanized area are within a ¾ mile walk of bus service.
Community Connector distributes transit service to other communities on a contract basis.
The extent of service is based on the amount of financial support from these communities,as
well as federal and state financial support. Service to residents in the urbanized area of these
communities within a ¾ mile walk of bus service is Brewer, Hampden, Orono, Veazie, and
Old Town.
Service Accessibility isgiven to Hospitals/Medical Centers, Colleges/Universities/Schools,
Shopping Centers, and Social Service/Government Centers. Consideration is given to new
markets as demand warrants and resources are or become available.
V EHICLE A SSIGNMENT P OLICY
Bus assignments considerthe operating characteristics of buses of various lengths and
loading capacitythat arematched to the operating characteristics of the route.Routes with
lower ridership may be assigned smaller buses with lower loading capacities. Buses are
replacedon a rotating basis based on bus conditionsand useful life benchmark (ULB).
Replacement buses will thus be assigned to all routes on an equitable, rotating basis such
that no route will be favored by newer buses.
T RANSIT A MENITIES
Vehicles
All transit vehicles will continue to have equal amenities,such as air conditioning and bicycle
racks. Vehicles are randomly rotated on routes, except routes that have lower/higher
ridership demand or route geometricsmay require a different size.Currently,thefleet is
made up of two bus manufacturers and two sizes.
Bus Shelters and Bus Stops
Community Connector is a flag stop system. Community Connector has hired a consultant to
write a new Bus Stop Policy. The Bus Stop Policy and Design Guidelines is in draft form and
is expected tobe approved in late 2022. Please see Appendix D.
https://www.bangormaine.gov/busstop
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 22
APPENDIXA
DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINT FORM
Community ConnectorTitle VI
Section I:
Name:
Address:
Telephone (Home):Telephone (Work):
Electronic Mail Address:
Accessible Format Large PrintAudio Tape
Requirements?
TDDOther
Section II:
Are you filing this complaint on your own behalf?Yes*No
*If you answered "yes" to this question, go to Section III.
If not, please supply the name and relationship of the person for
whom you are complaining:
Please explain why you have filed for a third party:
Please confirm that you have obtained the permission of the YesNo
aggrieved party if you are filing on behalf of a third party.
Section III:
I believe the discrimination I experienced was based on (check all that apply):
\[ \] Race\[ \] Color\[ \] National Origin
Date of Alleged Discrimination (Month, Day, Year): __________
Please explain as clearly as possible what happened and why you believe you were discriminated against.
Describe all persons who were involvedand as much detail as possible, includingthe name and contact
information of the person(s) who discriminated against you (if known),as well as names and contact
information of any witnesses. If more space is needed, please attach any number of pagesto this form.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 23
Section IV
Have you previously filed a Title VI complaint with this agency?YesNo
Section V
Have you filed this complaint with any other Federal, State, or local agency, or with any Federal or State
court?
\[ \] Yes\[ \] No
If yes, check all that apply:
\[ \] Federal Agency:
\[ \] Federal Court \[ \] State Agency
\[ \] State Court \[ \] Local Agency
Please provide information about a contact person at the agency/court where the complaint was filed.
Name:
Title:
Agency:
Address:
Telephone:
Section VI
Name of agency complaint is against:
Contact person:
Title:
Telephonenumber:
You may attach any written materials or other information you believerelevant to your complaint.
Signature and date required below.
___________________________________ _________________
SignatureDate
Please submit this form in person at the address below, or mail this form to:
City of Bangor Community Connector
475Maine Avenue
Bangor, Maine 04401
This form may also be submitted via email to:
community.connector@bangormaine.gov
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 24
APPENDIX B
COMMUNITY CONNECTOR
P UBLIC P ARTICIPATION P ROCESS
Fare Increases/ Service Reductions
Route Modifications/ Public Outreach
Bangor, Maine
Approved June 2016 –Updated February 2022
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 25
GENERAL PURPOSE
Public participation is a necessary and integral part of transit's planning process. The public
participation process will provide early and continuing involvement:clear, accurate, and timely
information:full public access to citizens, public agencies, and segments of the community
affected by transportation plans.
The public participation process will actively seek public input through a variety of techniques:which
include media relations (newspaper, television, radio etc.), public notices, public informational
meetings, appropriate comment periods, surveys, workshops, public hearings, and input from local
member governments and their appointed committees.
This document contains the Community Connector public participation process that will be followed.
Sometimes things are out of our hands and this policy would not be followed during a pandemic and
or during a driver shortage. FTA is aware of both situations and both situations are seen as
temporary.
DEFINITION
1.Fare Increase is defined as an increase in the basic fare structure. Fare decreases are
specifically excluded.
2.Major Service Reductions are defined as decreases in service that represent a net loss of
three(3%)percent of total service miles or hours.
3.Route Modifications are defined as a change in any fixed-route transit service that change
three(3%)percent of the total inbound and outbound trip mileage of a route.
I MPLEMENTING P ROCEDURES
CALCULATION OF SERVICE MILES/HOURS REDUCTIONS
In determining whether this procedure applies to a specific service reduction, the Community
Connector shall calculate and compare the total current service miles or hours to the proposed
estimated total service miles or hours to be provided after reduced service would be implemented.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 26
FARE INCREASE
TheCommunity Connector shall receive public comment on any proposed fare increase prior to
implementation. Any increase in fares shall be recommendedby Community Connectorbefore
presentedand reviewed by the CityBangor's Government Operations Committeewho may
recommend to the Bangor City Council for final approval.Majority vote is required for approval. The
Community Connector reserves the right to have potential changes reviewed by additional working
group/committees.
SERVICE REDUCTIONS
A major service reduction shall be any reduction in service miles or hours exceeding three percent
(3%)of the total service miles or hours provided. Any major service reduction shall be reviewed
and recommendedby the Community Connector before being presented and reviewed bythe City
of Bangor’sGovernment Operations Committee who may recommend to theBangor City Council
for final approval. Majority vote is required for approval. The Community Connector reserves the
right to have potential changes reviewed by additional working group/committees.
ROUTE MODIFICATIONS
A route modification shall be a change toany fixed-route transit service affectingthree percent
(3%)of the total inbound and outbound trip mileage of a route.
Route and/or schedule modifications may occur due to the following but is not limited to:
Public recommendations or complaints
Employee/operator recommendations or complaints
On-time performance
Overcrowding of the bus
Driver shortage
Community Connector Staff recommendations
Route modifications are reviewed by Community Connector, whoserecommendations shall be
presented to the City of Bangor’sGovernment Operations Committee for potential approval. The
Community Connector reserves the right to have potential changes reviewed by additional working
group/committees.
Notices
A public hearing for fare increases and major reductions shall be advertised in a daily publication of
general circulation at least thirty (30) days prior to conducting such hearing and it shall be held at
one or more locations that is accessible to all interested persons including persons with disabilities
and easily accessed by public transportation. In addition to the advertisements, notices will be posted
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 27
on-board fixed-route and paratransit vehicles showing when and where the meeting will take place at
least thirty (30) days in advance ofthe scheduled public meeting date.
An explanation of the content, includingthe date, time, and location of the meetings,will be published
with the instructions for submitting comments,contact information and due date for questions or
additional information,and a note regarding where to find additional information on the website,
www.bangormaine.gov/communityconnector
The public meeting notice will be published in the legal section of at least one major newspaper with
one display advertisement per major newspaper, includingpublications serving smaller communities.
Notices will also be provided to neighborhood associations and announcements will be made on local
radio stations. Such notices will also be included on Community Connector websiteat
www.bangormaine.gov/communityconnector.
PLANS, MAPS, OR PROGRAMS
Community Connector will make efforts to include maps, photos, or other visual tools to aid in the
assisting passengers in understanding the proposed changes. When transit plans, maps, or
programs are proposed to change, copies of the existing document and proposed changes will be
made available at least thirty(30)days in advance of the scheduled public hearing date at the
Community Connector Transit Center(once online) and Community Connector Office, as well as on
websiteatwww.bangormaine.gov/communityconnector.
OUTREACH EFFORTS
In addition to receiving public comments from and educating those already interested and involved,
Community Connector will provide outreach to the community including efforts to involve minority
and LEP populations in public participation activities. Innovative and creative strategies will be
implemented bytheCommunity Connector to reasonably assess the general public sentiments and to
solicit helpful public input while educatingthose individuals unaware of the services provided by the
Community Connector. Some examples of outreach efforts includeinteraction with neighborhood
associations, schools, social service agencies, and presentations to community civic groups.
Community Connector intends tocollaboratewith the Literacy Volunteers of Bangor and the
MulticulturalCenter to further our outreach efforts.
PUBLIC MEETINGS
The Community Connector makesaneffortto ensure that scheduling and locations are accessible
to the public (this includes location(s)near public transportation,a reasonable time accessible by
bus,as well as an accessible buildingor room for individuals with disabilities).
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 28
Public information meetings will be held at various locations to inform the public of the planning
process, solicit ideas, input, and feedback. At least one meeting will take place in the evening and/or
on a weekend to accommodate those with traditional work schedules to attend. At least one meeting
will be held during a traditional work day to allow those who work in the evenings or weekends to
attend. The intent of holding public informational meetings at diversified locations is to solicit broad
public comments.
Specialservices should be available when practical, and subject to the availability of services and
resources. These services may include interpreters for those who do not speak English, materials
for individuals with visual impairments, and sign language interpreters. The availability of these
services will be described in public notices.
Surveys
Community Connector conducts periodic route surveys on the fixed-route system. Passengers are
encouraged to provide comments about the service.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR PARTICIPATION
The Community Connector and the local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Bangor Area
Comprehensive Transportation System (BACTS),will take a proactive approach to providing
opportunity for the public to be involved oftenwith continuedinvolvement in phases of the planning
process. Prior to the public participation process, a list of citizens and organizations havebeen
developed by BACTS who will be contacted on a continuous basis to serve as a base of interested
citizens for input and comment. This list will be expanded as additional citizens attend the
informational public meetings and providecomments.
DOCUMENTATION OFPUBLIC COMMENT AND RESPONSES
The Community Connector shall document comments received during the course of the public input
process. Community Connector shall also document how they responded to the public comments.
Comments received: Documentation of comments may be accomplished in a manner appropriate to
the project and the nature of the comments. Documentation may consist of meeting minutes, files of
letters, transcripts, PowerPoint presentations, and/or a memorandum that summarizes the comments.
A written summary of comments and responses shall be prepared to provide the feedback to the
public. A recordings and transcripts of the major points of public meetings will be made written
record. When applicable, the comments will be presented to the City of Bangor’sGovernment
Operations Committee and/or the Bangor City Council for action.
Response to comments: Community Connector will respond to questions or comments from the
public concerning the public participation process in a timely manner. A summary analysis and report
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 29
on disposition of comments may be made a part of the final plan. Rationale for policy decisions will
be available to the public in writing, if requested.
ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES
In the event of change, implementations shall take placeno sooner thanone (1) week prior to
whennew route schedules are made available to the public via Community Connector's
website (http://www.bangormaine.gov/communityconnector). They will also be available at
the Community ConnectorTransit Center(once open).
When the changes take place, Community Connector staff will be made available to provide
travel assistance to passengers who may not be aware of the modifications.
Information regarding the changes will remain available to the public for a 30-day period
beyond the implementation of the changes.
SEPARATE DOCUMENT
The Community Connector follows the Bangor Area Comprehensive Transportation System
(BACTS) Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) process for all other transportation plans
and programs.Download
Approved:
__________________________________________________________________________________
Deborah Laurie, City ManagerDate
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 30
APPENDIX C(WOULD BE UPDATED PRIOR TO SUBMITTAL)
PENDING APPROVAL
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 31
ATTACHMENT D
Attachment Dis the Bus Stop Policy and Design Guidelinesin is draft form until approval in
late 2022.Once approved the final copy will be attached.
City of Bangor Community Connector -Title VI Program 32