The MSRC’s Major Event Center Transportation Program solicitation is now open. This program has $6.5 million available to help provide transportation services to major event centers within the South Coast Air District not adequately served by public transit. The purpose of this program is to get attendees out of their cars and onto cleaner public transportation options to reduce the number of automobile trips and congestion around the venues, thereby improving air quality.
Eligible applicants include major event centers (occupancy capacity of at least 7,500 people, with average attendance of at least 5,000 people), qualifying transportation providers, or County Transportation Commissions. Qualifying vehicles to provide the service include on-road buses and shuttles that meet the California Air Resources Board’s (ARB) zero-emission standard or that are equipped with an engine certified at ARB’s Optional Low-NOx emission standard of 0.02g/bhp-hr. This Program Announcement differs from past solicitations in that it spans three years. Applicants may propose transportation services for a maximum of two consecutive event seasons. If an applicant wishes to apply for funding for all three years, they will be required to submit multiple applications.
The MSRC has funded many Major Event Center projects in the past, including the Dodger Stadium Express (see photo), the Angels Express Bus, the Orange County Fair Flyer (see photo), and special Metrolink service to the Auto Club Speedway. Proposals will be evaluated in order of receipt, and the application period closes on March 30, 2021. For more information, please visit: http://www.cleantransportationfunding.org/current-rfps-solicitations
