Panel weighs adding fifth Freebee vehicle to shorten wait times; costs and grant support discussed
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Summary
Staff presented data showing a 36% decrease in wait times after an inner/outer zone rollout and proposed a fifth Freebee vehicle for high season; staff cited a $1,500 one‑time wrap fee and roughly $10,833 monthly per vehicle and noted FDOT grant support; the motion to add the vehicle was raised but the transcript does not record a final vote.
Redevelopment staff (S9) updated the panel on the Freebee microtransit pilot. Staff said the inner/outer pickup and drop‑off zone plan launched in August produced an estimated 36% decrease in wait times and proposed adding a fifth vehicle for the high season (November–April).
Staff summarized cost and timeline estimates: they said implementing an additional vehicle would take about 30–45 days to find parking, install a charger and hire drivers; a one‑time wrap fee was quoted at $1,500 and staff mentioned an estimated monthly incremental cost of about $10,833 for the vehicle. Staff also noted an FDOT grant that provides multi‑year operating support (staff cited annual coverage figures during the discussion).
Commissioners discussed service coverage (beach, Jetty, Publix/Taylor Creek Commons, downtown and the intermodal bus station) and whether the additional vehicle would relieve parking pressure and reduce wait times. Commissioner (S4) moved to approve adding a vehicle; the transcript records a motion to approve but does not include a clear, final roll‑call outcome. Staff was asked to return with a detailed implementation plan and funding confirmation before the board takes final action.
Because the final implementation vote and funding decisions were not fully recorded, staff follow‑up was the action requested.
