Redevelopment Commission Agenda & Packet 01.09.25

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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – December 12, 2024 3 Madi Rogers, Director of Civic Innovation, gave a brief introduction to what Commuters Trust is and about the $200,000 budget request. $130,000 will cover transportation costs and $70,000 is for project management and business analytics support. Lynn Wetzel, Program Manager of Transportation, presented that services provided are, increased job security for wage workers, reduced turnover and no- shows for local employers, and broaden access to essential services for underserved communities for transportation. Ms. Wetzel explained that the problem is that it costs on average $525 to own a vehicle. Both on a local and national level, 1 in 4 individuals struggle to access reliable transportation. Ms. Wetzel explains that there are two examples of the program, 1 is non-profit program and 2 is a cost-share employer program and these programs have been running since 2020. She stated that enrollment takes 5 minutes and benefits can only be used for eligible rides. The employer partner program (to date) impacts 670 participants, 27,581 Uber/Lyft rides, 71,335 Transpo rides, and $15.11 average ride costs. She gave an example of employees that were able to increase their hours by 1.27 shifts per month and that resulted in an extra $151.00 a month per worker. Vice President Relos asked to clarify, the program pays 1/3 and the employers pays 2/3 and Ms. Rogers confirmed, the estimated partner commitments are $183,000, CT Transportation contribution is $130,000, Administrative expenses are $70,000 with a total budget of $383,000 with a City commitment of $200,000. Commissioner Wax asked to clarify, the program would share up to 67% of the total transportation costs and Ms. Rogers confirmed. Commissioner Wax also asked for economic impact and growth for 2025, and Ms. Rogers stated that they will be doing more studies. Commissioner Sallie asked if they had looked into other sources of funding, and Ms. Rogers stated that they have applied for grants but were denied and are waiting to hear back from another. Tina Patton asked if this is a program for the entire City of South Bend and Ms. Wetzel stated that the program only partners with employers and non-profits and there is a website for details. Upon a motion by Vivian Sallie for approval, seconded by Eli Wax, the motion carried however, Commission Gillian Shaw abstained from the vote; the Commission approved the Budget Request as presented on December 12, 2024. B. River West Development Area 1. Opening of Bids (214 W. Wayne St.)