City provides update on Jonesboro trolley fleet, software RFP and shelter procurement

City staff provided an operational update on the trolley program and fare-collection technology during public comments at the Public Works Committee meeting.

An unidentified speaker referenced community questions about the trolleys. Lee (identified in the meeting transcript by first name) reported that five trolleys are in stock and that one vehicle is operating on a regular route. “We do have the 4 routes... it is currently running on Route 17,” Lee said, describing Route 17 as serving Johnson and portions of Caraway and the Walmart on Holland. Lee said work remains to equip the other vehicles and finalize software integration.

Lee told the committee the TripSpark project is in an informational phase and that staff are issuing an RFP to identify a vendor to provide fare payment capability by card or phone. “We are still in the RFP process. We haven't actually gotten a vendor yet,” Lee said, adding that the city has made adjustments to current pass procedures while awaiting vendor selection. Lee also said a separate bid for bus shelters closes tomorrow and staff expect more information after that procurement step.

Council members asked about the cost of fare collection relative to revenue. An unidentified council member asked, “How much money do we spend collecting money versus how much money we collect?” Lee replied the previous electronic system proved costly to maintain and that the city is exploring lower-cost options; the city is federally funded and does not expect transit to be a major revenue generator.

The committee heard the operational update and thanked staff; no formal action was taken on the trolley program at this meeting.