SOLICITATION FOR APPLICATIONS TO REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM

Transcription

1 SOLICITATION FOR APPLICATIONS TO REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM Issued: April 2017

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3 CONTENTS REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM Solicitation Overview 1 LOCAL MOBILITY INITIATIVES Thumbnail Requirements 5 LOCAL MOBILITY INITIATIVES Proposal Guidance and Instructions 7 LOCAL MOBILITY INITIATIVES Emissions Estimate Guidance 14 TRANSPORTATION CLEAN AIR MEASURES Thumbnail Requirements 19 TRANSPORTATION CLEAN AIR MEASURES Proposal Guidance and Instructions 21 TRANSPORTATION CLEAN AIR MEASURES Emissions Estimate Guidance 37

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5 NJTPA REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM Program Solicitation Overview Thumbnail sketches are due to the NJTPA by May 4, There will be an information session for all potential applicants at the NJTPA offices on April 20, 2017 at 10am. Successful thumbnail sponsors will then be invited by the NJTPA to submit full proposals, which will be due on June 1, 2017 at 4 p.m. Questions about the solicitation must be submitted in writing to the NJTPA. Questions for the Local Mobility Initiatives program should be directed to the attention of Jeff Perlman by at jperlman@njtpa.org. Questions related to Transportation Clean Air Measures should be directed to the attention of Liz DeRuchie by at Liz@njtpa.org. Inquiries should reference Solicitation for Applications to the Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program. Copies of all questions, and any replies, will be made available on the NJTPA website: INTRODUCTION Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds have been allocated to the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) metropolitan area for projects that contribute to the attainment of the Clean Air Act standards by reducing emissions and congestion in the nonattainment and maintenance areas. The FY 2018 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for the NJTPA region has set aside funding for a competitive CMAQ program to fund eligible projects and services that demonstrate potential actions to achieve these air quality goals. Candidate projects will be evaluated, selected, and approved for funding by the NJTPA Board of Trustees, based on the program criteria described in this document. Approved projects will be submitted to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) or the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for federal authorization of funds. PROGRAM PURPOSE The NJTPA is soliciting applications for its Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program, to be supported by federal CMAQ funds allocated to the NJTPA region. The purpose of this competitive program is to advance readily implementable and innovative projects and services that improve air quality and reduce congestion in the NJTPA s air quality maintenance and nonattainment areas. This document details the application process and program guidelines for the submittal of a thumbnail and full proposal to the NJTPA. 1

6 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITES Eligible activities under the Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program fall under two categories: Local Mobility Initiatives (Shuttle Services) and Transportation Clean Air Measures (TCAMs). Proposed projects for either category must be eligible under the federal CMAQ guidelines (see page 21), be ready to implement, demonstrate the potential for reductions in emissions and congestion, and meet or exceed the requirements for matching funds. Match requirements vary depending on the type of proposal. Proposals must link to needs identified in the Regional Transportation Plan for northern New Jersey, Plan (See Possible projects can draw from a variety of sources, such as local and regional plans and projects, the Together North Jersey (TNJ) Regional Plan, the region s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) document, the PANYNJ Clean Air Strategy, or the NJTPA Subregional Studies Program. Local Mobility Initiatives (Shuttle Services) Eligible activities under this category are limited to shuttle services. The program will offer both operating and capital support for shuttle services as detailed below. Operational support is available for new and expanded shuttle services as a reimbursement program for costs associated with shuttle operations. These funds may be utilized for three to five years. Applicants are permitted to spread the third year amount (an amount not to exceed the greater of year one or two) across an additional two years (i.e. years four and five). This approach provides for a taper-down period where the service transitions from federal funds to other public or private sources. The program requires a 25% local match for shuttle operations. Vehicle replacements are also available as capital support for existing and expanding services. Applicants may request funding to replace vehicles for existing successful services with new vehicles procured by NJ TRANSIT (in configurations shown on pages 16-17). Importantly, recipients of new vehicles may not reduce existing service through the useful life of the vehicle. There is no local match required for vehicle replacement. Shuttle services supported by this program (through operational support and/or capital equipment) must be intended to develop financially sustainable and innovative services, reduce single occupancy vehicle trips and congestion, improve air quality, encourage and increase transit use, optimize the performance of local and regional transportation networks, connect to major transit routes (including with last mile connections to major destinations), and improve personal mobility. All applications should adopt best practices and innovations in services to lower costs, improve customer satisfaction, utilize alternative energy sources, ensure financial sustainability, and reduce air pollution. Proposals may not duplicate existing publicly funded transit services. Transportation Clean Air Measures (TCAMs) Non-shuttle projects will compete for funding as TCAMs. Proposals can include but are not limited to: diesel reduction; idle reduction; traffic signal optimization; intelligent transportation systems; intermodal freight; bicycle and pedestrian projects; travel demand management; public 2

7 education; alternative fuels and vehicles: and other projects which will reduce pollutant emissions and congestion in the NJTPA region. Successful TCAMs will augment existing environmentally beneficial programs with new and innovative approaches, take advantage of cross-jurisdictional partnerships, have the potential to inspire or support further actions, garner public support and interest, and leverage other funding sources. After funds are authorized by FHWA, and project sponsors have a maximum of three years to complete the project. The minimum match for projects is 20% from public agencies (Up to 100 percent of funding is available for certain projects subject to federal approval) and 50% from private firms. TIME FRAME The solicitation for Local Mobility Initiatives provides funds for three operating years that may be utilized for up to five years from the commencement of operations. Applicants are permitted to spread the third year amount (an amount not to exceed the greater of year one or two) across an additional two years. The solicitation for Transportation Clean Air Measures (TCAMs) covers three federal fiscal years: 2018, 2019 and Projects can be proposed for any of those years. Project completion may be phased over the three-year timeframe. The Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program will solicit applications every two years. ELIGIBLE ENTITIES Eligible applicants for Local Mobility Initiatives funding include Transportation Management Associations (TMAs), municipalities, and subregional transportation system operators in the NJTPA region. Eligible applicants for Transportation Clean Air Measures (TCAMs) funding include regional partners such as NJDEP, NJ TRANSIT, PANYNJ, railway companies, Transportation Management Associations (TMAs), municipalities, and the fifteen NJTPA subregions. Privately owned companies or other non-government entities may be eligible to participate as part of a public-private partnership. HOW TO APPLY The Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program application is a two-step process that begins with the submission of thumbnail sketches. The NJTPA will review thumbnail sketches and successful submissions will be invited by the NJTPA to submit full proposals. Thumbnail sketches are due to the NJTPA on May 4, 2017 and invited full proposals will be due on June 1, 2017 at 4 p.m. An information session will be held on April 20, 2017 at 10 a.m. at the NJTPA offices at One Newark Center, 17 th Floor, Newark, NJ Attendance at the information session is strongly encouraged. 3

8 Applicants submitting proposals for the Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program must submit thumbnails in accordance with the applicable category requirements. Thumbnail requirements for Local Mobility Initiatives can be found on page 5 of this document. Thumbnail requirements for Transportation Clean Air Measures are on page 19. Applicants may submit multiple thumbnails for both Local Mobility Initiatives and Transportation Clean Air Measures. Applicants should rank their applications in order of priority. In preparing thumbnails, applicants should also review the full proposal guidelines and review criteria. These are also specific to the project categories and provide further program information and instructions for preparing proposals (after the thumbnail stage). Guidance for Local Mobility Initiatives is on page 7 and for Transportation Clean Air Measures on page 21. Applicants submitting full proposals for Local Mobility Initiatives must include a letter(s) of support from the NJTPA Regional Transportation Advisory Committee (RTAC) member in the appropriate subregion(s). (A current list of RTAC members is available on the NJTPA website.) Questions about the solicitation must be submitted in writing to the NJTPA. Questions for the Local Mobility Initiatives program should be directed to the attention of Jeff Perlman by at jperlman@njtpa.org. Questions related to Transportation Clean Air Measures should be directed to the attention of Liz DeRuchie by at Liz@njtpa.org. Inquiries should reference Solicitation for Applications to the Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program. Copies of all questions, and any replies, will be made available on the NJTPA Website: The deadline for inquiries is April 27, 2017 at 4 p.m. Late inquiries may not be reviewed or considered. Thumbnail Review and Full Application The NJTPA will review all thumbnails to ascertain eligibility under CMAQ and to identify the most promising and implementable projects. Thumbnails will also be evaluated for improvement and constructive suggestions will be offered to sponsors as appropriate. Applicants will be notified of the thumbnail review results and will be invited to submit full proposals in April, Full proposals will be reviewed by a Technical Review Committee based on identified criteria for the applicable project category (Local Mobility Initiatives or Transportation Clean Air Measures). Recommendations from the Technical Review Committee will be presented to the NJTPA Project Prioritization Committee and Planning and Economic Development Committee for endorsement and then to the NJTPA Board of Trustees for approval. Approved projects will be submitted to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) or the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for federal authorization of funds. 4

9 NJTPA REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM LOCAL MOBILITY INITIATIVES Thumbnail Requirements Identify specific shuttle projects (operations and/or vehicle replacement) that can be readily implemented to measurably reduce pollutants & congestion eligible under the Federal Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ) program. Project Sponsor(s): Project Name: Project Rank: Estimated $ Requested: Include partner agencies, organizations/subcontractors etc If submitting more than one proposal i.e. first, second etc. Funding for operations requires a 25% local match. Vehicle replacement does not require a match. Funding Type: Description: Project Identification: Estimated Results: Where: Indicate whether proposal is for operations or vehicle replacement. Applications for existing service expansions in addition to vehicle replacement are required to submit separate applications. Describe the project area for services and how service will be implemented. For vehicle replacements, describe the existing service. How was the need this service, whether proposed or expansion of existing service, identified? Sources should include at least one of the following: recommendations from a Federal, State or Local Plan; Plan 2040; The Together North Jersey Regional Plan; locally developed coordinated human services transportation plan (CHSTP); or other quantifiable need Estimate emissions and congestion reductions as well as any secondary benefits. Include both quantitative and qualitative results. An emissions estimation spreadsheet is available at: Where will the estimated emissions and/or congestion reductions occur? Provide a map of the route or route area, as well as other publicly funded routes in the vicinity of the route. Routes that duplicate other publicly funded routes geographically or temporally are ineligible for support under this program. Provide context in the map related to connections to other modes, and significant origins and destinations. 5

10 Contact Person: Name, phone, and fax for additional information Thumbnail Submission: Thumbnail applications should be addressed to: Jeff Perlman Manager, Regional Planning North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority One Newark Center, 17 th Floor Newark, NJ This thumbnail should be a maximum of two pages. 6

11 NJTPA REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM LOCAL MOBILITY INITIATIVES Proposal Guidance and Instructions This section provides detailed guidance on submitting a full proposal for Local Mobility Initiatives under the NJTPA Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program. Full proposals are to be prepared upon invitation by the NJTPA following successful submission and review of a thumbnail sketch as described in the Program Solicitation Overview section (starting on page 1) and organized as described on page 5. (Guidance for preparing a Transportation Clean Air Measure proposal is provided in later sections of this document). Eligibility Eligible activities are limited to shuttle services as described in the Solicitation Overview section of this document. The program offers both Operational Support and Capital Support (Vehicle Replacement). Proposals that duplicate existing transit service are ineligible for funding. Eligible applicants and matching fund requirements are described in the Solicitation Overview section. Eligible applicants are TMAs, NJTPA subregions, and transportation system operators. All applications must include a subregional support letter from appropriate NJTPA Regional Transportation Advisory Committee (RTAC) members. Matching funds (25%), required for operational support must come from local sources other than federal transportation funds or NJ TRANSIT operating funds. A letter of commitment from the provider of the matching funds is required. Recipients of operating assistance must comply with FTA requirements related to the contracting of services. More information is available at This includes but is not limited to a Title VI plan and FTA drug and alcohol testing. Additionally, all services must be open to the general public, and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Innovation in Operations Innovations in operations are encouraged under this guidance, and are considered in the selection criteria. These include but are not limited to the implementation or deployment of: Low carbon fuel vehicles Vehicle noise reduction Vehicle idle reduction Cost reduction and efficiency strategies, such as ridesharing and other related technologies Other innovations that increase ridership, passenger information and satisfaction, and reduce air pollution Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Requirements Transit services, including but not limited to shuttles, are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. These requirements include, but are not limited to, the utilization of wheelchair lift-equipped, accessible vehicles, and the offering of deviated fixed route services. 7

12 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS In order to be considered for funding, proposals for operating assistance and vehicle replacement must meet several requirements, outlined below. These requirements may also be included as part of the selection criterion. The application must demonstrate need in one of the following ways (Operational Support and Vehicle Replacement): o Problem identification linked to needs, strategies, and related projects in Plan o Proposal or service complements a planned transit or roadway capacity increase. o Proposal or service fulfills a need identified in an NJTPA, Together North Jersey, NJ TRANSIT, New Jersey Department of Transportation, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, or other related agency sponsored study. o Proposal or service fulfills a need identified in a county or municipal master plan or study. o Proposal or service fulfills another need not included in the above designated areas, but is well documented in the application. The application must demonstrate a potential for success after the CMAQ funding period has ended (Operational Support Only). Items that are required for consideration are: o Description of potential for financial sustainability of the project without further federal funding. o Marketing plan for the attraction and maintenance of ridership. Marketing costs must, however, be borne by the applicant. o Service sustainability plan to attract and retain private or local public financial support. The application must provide specific information related to service operations (Operational Support and Vehicle Replacement). This includes: o Comprehensive budget (Operations Only) o Quantifiable benefits for congestion mitigation and improved air quality (via the included spreadsheet and formula) o Map and description of planned routes and/or service area and other transit services and facilities for new service. For Vehicle Replacement, map and description of existing service (including ridership information and schedule) for route(s) to be serviced with the replacement vehicle. The application must provide specific information related to the use of pollution reduction strategies (Operational Support and Vehicle Replacement). This may include but is not limited to: o Low-carbon fuels o Anti-idling measures o Driver performance monitoring o Advanced emissions reduction equipment 8

13 SELECTION CRITERIA Proposals will be reviewed and scored by a technical review committee consisting of NJTPA Central Staff and NJ TRANSIT staff using the following criteria: Demonstration of Need (Operations & Vehicle Replacement) 25 points o Proposal demonstrates a strong link to a well-defined need. Potential for Success (Operations Only) 25 Points o Proposal addresses a transportation demand and projected ridership is well reasoned and strong. o Proposal seeks to offset significant single occupancy vehicle trips. o Regional impacts of the proposed service are clearly demonstrated. o Proposal demonstrates the ability to provide a usable connection to transit. o Proposal contains a marketing plan to attract and retain ridership. o Proposal includes a service sustainability plan to attract and retain private or local public financial support. Demonstrated Success (Vehicle Replacement Only) 25 Points o Details of existing service. o Service addresses a transportation demand demonstrated by strong ridership. o Service currently offsets significant single occupancy vehicle trips. o Regional impacts of the service. o Service provides a usable connection to transit. o Marketing plan to attract and retain ridership. o Service sustainability plan to attract and retain private or local public financial support. o Current Vehicle Details Operations (Operations and Vehicle Replacement) 35 Points o Accuracy and clarity of budget. o Support for, and integration with, the existing public transit network, without duplication of the existing public transit network. o Ability to implement the service in a timely manner. o Quantifiable benefits for congestion mitigation and improved air quality. o Staffing capabilities. o Successful record of implementing shared ride services. Innovation (Operations and Vehicle Replacement) 15 Points o Utilization of low carbon fuel sources. o Implementation of enhanced customer satisfaction measures. o Increased service attractiveness. o Implementation of cost reduction tactics. o Implementation of other innovations that increase ridership, passenger information and satisfaction, and reduce air pollution. o Other innovations that advance the goals of the program. 9

14 PROPOSAL CONTENTS 1. Demonstration of need (Operations and Vehicle Replacement) 1.1. Cite the plan, study, or other source that identifies the need to be or being fulfilled. Quote appropriate sections of source material, and include excerpts with the application Describe how the proposed service will fulfill or is fulfilling the need identified in item 1.1. Use narrative, graphics, maps, and statistics as necessary to describe how the proposal will alleviate the need. 2. Potential for Success (Operations Only) 2.1. Describe the existing transportation demand and projected ridership, and the sources and methods used to make that determination Describe the typical trip replaced by the proposed service Describe the regional impacts of the services proposed Describe the potential for this service to provide a usable connection to transit Describe the marketing plan proposed to attract and retain riders Describe the plan to attract and retain private and local public financial support to extend the service beyond its proposed CMAQ funding. 3. Demonstrated Success (Vehicle Replacement Only) 3.1. Provide ridership counts for at least the last five years of service, including time and location information Describe the typical trip replaced by the service Describe the regional impacts of the services provided Describe how the service provides a useful and usable connection to transit. Describe the marketing plan proposed to attract and retain riders Describe the plan to attract and retain private and local public financial support for providing for continued operations and capital replacement Provide details of the vehicle to be replaced (see page reference) Model year Make Type VIN # Seating capacity Funding source for original acquisition In service date Fuel type Mileage Expected retirement date 4. Operations (Operations and Vehicle Replacement) 4.1. Describe the proposed or existing service: routes, scheduling, hours of service, vehicle(s) to be used, and anticipated fares (if any) Describe the plan to implement services in a timely manner after funds are made available. (Operations Only) 4.3. Describe the system that will be or is being used for dispatching, scheduling, and recording and analyzing ridership data Demonstrate air quality benefits of a proposed or existing service using the EPA s formula for emissions reduction. Include information about how the formula inputs were 10

15 determined. See page 13 for a completed example, and the NJTPA website for a functional spreadsheet List all appropriate staff, their relevant experience, and their role in the proposed project Provide a listing and summary of transportation programs operated that demonstrate successful implementation and operations of services. 5. Budget (Operations Only) 5.1. Provide a detailed budget, including the 25% local match (See page 14 for an example spreadsheet) Include direct and administrative costs, cost per hour of service, and per rider Provide a detailed explanation of the process used to estimate these costs. 6. Innovation (Operations Only) 6.1. Describe any planned or existing innovations in shuttle services this proposal will support, including any expected costs and gains. For example, using alternative fuels is expected to cost $x/gallon, for y gallons per year, and save z units of criteria air pollution. A list of suggested innovation strategies is included in the program guidance. 7. Subregional and Local Support (Operations and Vehicle Replacement) 7.1. Include copies of letters of Subregional support for TMA and municipal proposals Include copies of letters of commitment from the provider(s) of the matching funds for all proposals Include letters of support from local businesses and government. (optional) 11

16 GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS AND RESOURCES Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program Provisions The Transportation Clean Air Measures Proposal Guidance section (page 19) includes an overview of project type eligibility for federal CMAQ funding. Local Mobility Initiatives within the NJTPA Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program may correspond to a number of categories within the overview. Plan 2040 The NJTPA s Regional Transportation Plan, Plan 2040, is the guiding document for transportation investment policy for the northern New Jersey region. The complete document and appendices can be found at Together North Jersey Since 2012, the NJTPA, NJ TRANSIT, The Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University, the New Jersey Office for Planning Advocacy, NJTPA subregions and core cities, and a variety of other public, institutional, and nonprofit entities have worked, under the aegis of Together North Jersey (TNJ) on the advancement of the TNJ Plan. The outcome of plan implementation will be a more sustainable future for the region that invests in existing communities where housing, jobs, educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities are made more easily accessible to most residents of the region without having to drive to them. Information on specific projects and actions are available at Subregional Support Proposals from TMAs and municipalities must be supported by an NJTPA member subregion. This most often comes from a subregional representative to the NJTPA s Regional Technical Advisory Committee (RTAC). The RTAC provides a forum for presentation and discussion on regional issues. It also performs a vital function in reviewing and disseminating information, and making recommendations to the NJTPA Board and its individual Trustees to aid in decisionmaking. The RTAC contact list, as well as contacts on other NJTPA committees, are available on the NJTPA website here: Trustees/Committees/Regional-Transportation-Advisory-Committee.aspx. Templates/References The resources on pages 13 to 16 offer standardized formats for estimating emissions benefits, expenditure reporting, and vehicle replacement descriptions. 12

17 HOW TO APPLY Full proposals are due to the NJTPA at 4 p.m. on June 1, Two hardcopies as well as electronic copies of the written application and both spreadsheets, provided as original text and spreadsheet documents, as well as final PDFs of each must be submitted. Eligibility requirements are listed in the Program Solicitation Overview (pages 1-3) and on page 6 within this Proposal Guidance section. The electronic versions of the air quality and financial spreadsheets are available on the web at: A Technical Review Committee consisting of staff from NJTPA and NJ TRANSIT will review all proposals based on the criteria listed on page 10. Recommendations from the Technical Review Committee will be presented to the Planning and Economic Development Committee for endorsement and then to the NJTPA Board of Trustees for approval. Please note that it may take up to months after the NJTPA Board of Trustees approval for the federal grant application and final approval process to be completed. Upon approval by the NJTPA Board of Trustees, administration of the program is transferred to NJ TRANSIT under FTA CMAQ (Section 5307) and all agreements for operating service and vehicles are between NJ TRANSIT and the subrecipient. It is expected that services will commence within six months of receipt of the contract. Delayed commencement of service beyond this timeframe may result in the reallocation of resources or other actions. Applications should be addressed to: Jeff Perlman Manager Environmental Planning & Mobility Programs, Regional Planning North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority One Newark Center, 17 th Floor Newark, NJ Jperlman@njtpa.org (973) ADMINISTRATION OF THE PROGRAM Funding for the selected projects is a reimbursement program. If a project is selected the sponsor will be required to submit regular reports to NJ TRANSIT and the NJTPA. 13

18 EMISSIONS ESTIMATE GUIDANCE 14

19 CMAQ Local Mobility Initiatives Operations Proposal Budget (Not for Reimbursement Purposes) Shuttle Name: Applicant Organization: OPERATING/ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET LINE ITEMS Year 1 Year 2 Salaries/Fringe Benefits (Operations manager, drivers, mechanics, and dispatchers, etc.) Year 3* Total Program Administrative Salaries/Fringe (related to providing transportation service) Licenses and Registration Third Party Contract Services (service provider for transportation services and/or marketing for transportation service) Maintenance & Repairs Materials Consumed (oil, fuel, etc.) Other Miscellaneous Expenses (including uniforms) Total Operating Expenses (Fares and Donations, estimated) Net Operating Expenses (25% Match) Total Reimbursement Request *Subrecipients have the option of using the 3rd year of funding for an additional two years, however the total of years 3, 4, and 5 may not be greater than either year 1 or year 2. 15

20 Replacement Vehicle Descriptions Vehicles are purchased by NJ TRANSIT through FTA compliment competitive vehicle procurement. Vehicles are titled to the subrecipient with NJ TRANSIT as first lien holder. NJ TRANSIT is responsible for all oversight of vehicles until Federal useful life is met. All vehicles are gas or diesel engines with automatic transmissions, front & rear heat, front & rear air conditioning, with enclosed stepwells. Extended cutaways will be available with CNG conversions. Cutaways are equipped with passenger side lifts that can be front or rear lifts depending on your needs. For the most part the vehicles have fixed seats, but some plans can have either foldaway or flip seats added provided there is room. All are body on chassis or cutaways are dual rear wheel cutaways that can range in wheelbases from 158 to 208 with overall body lengths that can also range from 260 to 382. Small Cutaway Rear Lift Vehicle Types This vehicle can transport up to eight (8) ambulatory passengers and two (2) mobility devices. When space permits and if no mobility device is being transported, a flip seat will be included to increase seating capacity. Useful Life is 4 years or 100,000 miles. Standard Cutaway This vehicle can transport up to twelve (12) ambulatory passengers and a minimum of two (2) mobility devices. When space permits and if no mobility device is being transported, a flip seat will be included to increase seating capacity. Useful Life is 5 years or 150,000 miles. 16

21 Extended Cutaway This vehicle can transport up to sixteen (16) ambulatory passengers and a minimum of two (2) mobility devices. When space permits and if no mobility device is being transported, a flip seat will be included to increase seating capacity. Useful Life is 5 years or 150,000 miles. Transit Style Bus This vehicle is designed to transport between twenty-four (24) to twenty-eight (28) ambulatory passengers and a minimum of two (2) mobility devices. Bus is equipped with air brakes and requires driver to have an air brake certification on their Commercial Driver s License. This vehicle requires a higher insurance combined single limit coverage, please review instructions for more details. Useful Life is seven (7) years or 200,000 miles. Low Floor Low floor and CNG vehicles are available in this type (seating configurations may vary). 17

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23 NJTPA REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM TRANSPORTATION CLEAN AIR MEASURES Thumbnail Requirements Identify specific projects that can be readily implemented to measurably reduce air pollutants and congestion and that are eligible for federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funding. Project Sponsor(s): Project Name: Project Rank: Estimated $ Requested: Include partner agencies, organizations/subcontractors etc If submitting more than one proposal i.e. first, second etc. $ (including the required minimum local match: 20% for projects from public agencies (Up to 100 percent of funding is available for certain projects subject to federal approval); 50% for projects from private firms) Identify Project: Description: CMAQ Link: Estimated Results: FFY: How was this project identified? i.e. Federal, State or Local Plan, recommendation from a previous study, RTP, TNJ, CEDs, additional phase from a previous project etc. Describe project area & how project will be implemented. Identify how this project is eligible for CMAQ funding. Identify estimated emissions and congestion reductions as well as any secondary benefits. Include both quantitative and qualitative results. Include secondary benefits to neighboring communities. (see section EMISSIONS ESTIMATE GUIDANCE) Identify which Federal fiscal year(s) you are applying for i.e. 2018, 2019 and/or It is possible to apply for more than one year s funding or to stage a project in phases to be funded accordingly. The federal fiscal year runs from October 1 September 30. Schedule: Project duration (in six month increments i.e. 12, 18, 24, 30 or 36 months) Who: Funds Requested: Who will carry out the work i.e. sponsoring agency, partner agency, private firm, subcontractors? Identify the total amount of funds requested per year including the local match. Also include a breakdown of the total funds identifying the CMAQ contribution and the match contribution. 19

24 Local Match: Where: Partners: Products: Contact Person: Thumbnail Submission: Identify the source of the local match as well as the amount. For public agencies, in general, the federal share for projects is 80%. In addition, up to 100% of funding is available for certain projects subject to federal approval. Proposal of these projects require a thorough justification that will undergo an additional level of federal scrutiny; 50% for projects from private firms. Where will the project take place and where will the estimated emissions and/or congestion reductions occur? (municipalities, counties etc.) Who will the lead agency partner with i.e. county, municipality, private firm, TMA, school board, NJDOT, NJ Transit, NJDEP, PANYNJ, etc. What products would result from this project? Name, phone, and fax for additional information Thumbnail applications should be addressed to: Liz DeRuchie Principal Planner North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority One Newark Center, 17 th Floor Newark, NJ liz@njtpa.org This outline should be a maximum of two pages. 20

25 NJTPA REGIONAL/LOCAL CMAQ INITIATIVES PROGRAM TRANSPORTATION CLEAN AIR MEASURES Proposal Guidance and Instructions This section provides detailed guidance on submitting a full proposal for Transportation Clean Air Measures under the NJTPA Regional/Local CMAQ Initiatives Program. Full proposals are to be prepared upon invitation by the NJTPA following successful submission and review of a thumbnail sketch as described in the Program Solicitation Overview section (starting on page 1). (Guidance for preparing a Local Mobility Initiatives proposal is provided in the earlier sections starting on page 4). Overall program eligibility and other attributes are described in the Program Solicitation Overview. Instructions on preparing a full proposal begin on page 32. CMAQ Provisions from FAST Act / MAP-21 and Federal Guidance Proposals for Transportation Clean Air Measures funding must be eligible for funding under federal CMAQ funds. Under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), and continued under the FAST Act. CMAQ funds continue to be available for a wide range of transportation projects, but new language in the act emphasizes select project types, including electric and natural gas vehicle infrastructure and diesel retrofits. Eligible activities include (but are not limited to) the following: 1. Diesel Retrofits for On-Road and Non-Road Vehicles and Equipment 2. Idle Reduction Technology i.e. Truck Stop Electrification & On-Board Technology 3. Traffic Signal Optimization and Intelligent Transportation Systems 4. Intermodal Freight Transportation 5. Transit Improvements 6. Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities and Programs 7. Travel Demand Management 8. Public Education and Outreach 9. Carpooling and Vanpooling 10. Carsharing 11. Extreme Low-Temperature Cold Start Programs 12. Training 13. Innovative Projects 14. Alternative Fuels and Vehicles 15. *Verified technologies for non-road vehicles and non-road engines used in portrelated freight operations. 16. *Installation of vehicle-to-infrastructure communications equipment. 17. *Alternative fuel vehicle infrastructure with priority on the alternative fueling corridors designated under 23 U.S.C * Added eligibility from the FAST Act. 21

26 MAP-21 also includes new performance-based planning provisions with forthcoming State and MPO requirements including CMAQ performance plans, air quality and traffic congestion performance measures and targets, and associated reporting. MAP-21 contains a specific emphasis on applying CMAQ funds to reducing emissions of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). References: More detailed eligibility information is provided below. These are examples of general project types eligible for CMAQ funding, excerpted from the second link above detailing FHWA s CMAQ guidance. For reference, examples of prior implementation in the NJTPA region are also noted. 1. Diesel Retrofits for On-Road and Non-Road Vehicles and Equipment The MAP-21 continues the emphasis SAFETEA-LU placed on diesel engine retrofits and the various types of projects that fall under this broad category. These efforts are defined as vehicle replacement, repowering (replacing an engine with a cleaner diesel engine, alternative fuels, etc.), rebuilding an engine, or other technologies determined by the EPA as appropriate for reducing emissions from diesel engines. The legislation defines retrofit projects as applicable to both on-road motor vehicles and non-road construction equipment; the latter must be used in Title 23 projects based in nonattainment or maintenance areas for either PM or ozone. The CMAQ funds may also be used to purchase and install emission control equipment on school buses. In addition to equipment and technology, outreach activities that provide information exchange and technical assistance to diesel owners and operators on retrofit options are eligible investments. These projects could include the actual education and outreach program, construction or acquisition of appropriate classroom buildings, and other efforts to promote the use of retrofit technologies. Non-road mobile source projects also are eligible for CMAQ funding. Most notably, a considerable amount of CMAQ support has been directed to locomotive retrofit and the acquisition of clean locomotives, such as railyard switchers and shunters that fit the generator-set criterion. Transportation projects that are part of an effort associated with EPA's Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) also may be eligible. In addition to retrofit projects, upgrading long-haul heavy-duty diesel trucks with EPA and/or CARB verified advanced technologies, such as idle reduction devices, cab and trailer aerodynamic fixtures, and single-wide or other efficient tires, has been demonstrated by the EPA's Smart Way Transport Partnership Program to reduce NOx emissions and save fuel. These strategies also are eligible for CMAQ support. Such projects funded directly by CMAQ that involve the private sector should be part of a PPP. 22

27 Many diesel retrofit projects involve private sector participation. States and local governments are encouraged to seek a higher non-federal match from those participants that ultimately will own the equipment. An even split share between the Federal CMAQ and all other sources has been a frequent compromise for many past projects in this arena. The NJTPA has successfully supported several diesel replacement/retrofit projects under this category: New Jersey s Clean Construction Program with NJDOT and NJDEP; two Genset Locomotive Rehabs with the PANYNJ and CSX Railroad; and a pilot North Jersey Truck Replacement Program with the PANYNJ. These projects were developed from the above CMAQ guidance as well as two NJTPA case studies, Construction Contract Stipulations for Off-Road Vehicles and Equipment, and Program to Encourage Retrofit or Purchase of New Diesel Locomotive Engines for Freight; the PANJNY s Clean Air Strategy; New Jersey Executive Order #60; and the Northeast Diesel Collaborative s Best Practices for Clean Diesel Construction. 2. Idle Reduction Technology i.e. Truck Stop Electrification & On-Board Technology Idle reduction projects that reduce emissions and are located within, or in proximity to and primarily benefiting, a nonattainment or maintenance area are eligible for CMAQ investment. (The geographic requirement mainly applies to off-board projects, i.e., truck stop electrification (TSE) efforts.) However, if CMAQ funding is used for an on-board project (i.e. auxiliary power units, direct fired heaters, etc.) the vehicle usually a heavyduty truck should travel within, or in proximity to and primarily benefiting, a nonattainment or maintenance area. Idle reduction devices are verified by the EPA. Commercial idle reduction facilities cannot be located within rest areas of the Interstate right-of-way (ROW). 3. Traffic Signal Optimization and Intelligent Transportation Systems Congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements may include the following: a. Traditional Improvements Traditional traffic flow improvements, such as the construction of roundabouts, HOV lanes, left-turn or other managed lanes, are eligible for CMAQ funding provided they demonstrate net emissions benefits through congestion relief. b. Intelligent Transportation Systems ITS projects, such as traffic signal optimization projects, traffic management projects, and traveler information systems, can be effective in relieving traffic congestion, enhancing transit bus performance, and improving air quality. The following have the greatest potential for improving air quality: Regional multimodal traveler information systems Traffic signal control systems Freeway management systems 23

28 Electronic toll-collection systems Transit management systems Incident management programs. Projects or programs that involve the purchase of integrated, interoperable emergency communications equipment are eligible for CMAQ funding. The NJTPA has successfully supported a traffic signal optimization project in Ocean County, the County Route 549 and County Route 631 Traffic Signal Optimization in Brick and Toms River Townships under this category. This project was developed from the above CMAQ guidance as well as an NJTPA case study, Traffic Signal Coordination; and a recommendation from the transportation element of Together North Jersey. Similar needs have been identified in TNJ s Local Demonstration Projects. 4. Intermodal Freight Transportation Projects and programs targeting freight capital costs-rolling stock or ground infrastructureare eligible provided that air quality benefits can be demonstrated. Freight projects that reduce emissions fall generally into two categories: primary efforts that target emissions directly or secondary projects that reduce net emissions. Successful primary projects could include new diesel engine technology or retrofits of vehicles or engines. Eligibility under CMAQ is not confined to highway projects, but also applies to non-road mobile freight projects such as rail. Secondary projects reduce emissions through modifications or additions to infrastructure and the ensuing modal shift. Support for an intermodal container transfer facility may be eligible if the project demonstrates reduced diesel engine emissions when balancing the drop in truck VMT against the increase in locomotive or other non-highway activity. Intermodal facilities, such as inland transshipment ports or near/on-dock rail, may generate substantial emissions reductions through the decrease in miles traveled for older, higher-polluting heavy-duty diesel trucks. This secondary, indirect effect on truck traffic and the ensuing drop in diesel emissions help demonstrate eligibility. The transportation function of these freight/intermodal projects should be emphasized. Marginal projects that support freight operations in a very tangential manner are not eligible for CMAQ funding. Warehouse handling equipment, for example, is not an eligible investment of program funds. Warehouses, themselves, or other similar structures, such as transit sheds, bulk silos or other permanent, non-mobile facilities that function more as storage resources are not eligible. However, equipment that provides a transportation function or directly supports this function is eligible, such as railyard switch locomotives or shunters that fall into the generator-set or other clean engine category. Similarly, large-scale container gantry cranes, or other heavy-duty container handling equipment that is a clear link in the intermodal process can be eligible as well. Also, on the ground operations side of aviation, the purchase or retrofit of airport handling equipment can be eligible, including baggage handlers, aircraft tow motors, and other equipment that plays a role in this intermodal link. 24

29 The NJTPA has successfully supported several diesel replacement/retrofit projects under this category: New Jersey s Clean Construction Program with NJDOT and NJDEP; two Genset Locomotive Rehabs with the PANYNJ and CSX Railroad; and a pilot North Jersey Truck Replacement Program with the PANYNJ. These projects were developed from the above CMAQ guidance as well as two NJTPA case studies, Construction Contract Stipulations for Off-Road Vehicles and Equipment, and Program to Encourage Retrofit or Purchase of New Diesel Locomotive Engines for Freight; the PANJNY s Clean Air Strategy; and New Jersey Executive Order #60; and the Northeast Diesel Collaborative s Best Practices for Clean Diesel Construction. 5. Transit Improvements Many transit projects are eligible for CMAQ funds. The general guideline for determining eligibility is whether the project increases transit capacity and would likely result in an increase in transit ridership and a potential reduction in congestion. As with other types of CMAQ projects, there should be a quantified estimate of the project's emissions benefits accompanying the proposal. The FTA administers most transit projects. a. Facilities New transit facilities (e.g., lines, stations, terminals, transfer facilities) are eligible if they are associated with new or enhanced public transit, passenger rail, or other similar services. Routine maintenance or rehabilitation of existing facilities is not eligible, as it does not reduce emissions. However, rehabilitation of a facility may be eligible if the vast majority of the project involves physical improvements that will increase transit service capacity. In such cases there should be supporting documentation showing an expected increase in transit ridership that is more than minimal. If the vast majority of the project involves capacity enhancements, other elements involving refurbishment and replacement-in-kind also are eligible. b. Vehicles and Equipment New transit vehicles (bus, rail, or van) to expand the fleet or replace existing vehicles are eligible. Transit agencies are encouraged to purchase vehicles that are most cost-effective in reducing emissions. Diesel engine retrofits, such as replacement engines and exhaust aftertreatment devices, are eligible if certified or verified by the EPA or California Air Resources Board (CARB). Routine preventive maintenance for vehicles is not eligible as it only returns the vehicles to baseline conditions. Other than diesel engine retrofits, other transit equipment may be eligible if it represents a major system wide upgrade that will significantly improve speed or reliability of transit service, such as advanced signal and communications systems. c. Fuel Fuel, whether conventional or alternative fuel, is an eligible expense only as part of a project providing operating assistance for new or expanded transit service under the CMAQ program. This includes fuels and fuel additives considered diesel retrofit technologies by the EPA or CARB. 25