Fresno COG Policy Board

All items on the consent agenda are considered to be routine and non-controversial by COG staff and will be approved by one motion if no member of the Committee or public wishes to comment or ask questions. If comment or discussion is desired by anyone, the item will be removed from the consent agenda and will be considered in the listed sequence with an opportunity for any member of the public to address the Committee concerning the item before action is taken.

FY 24-25 OA Quarterly Report Jan - (Oct. - Dec. 2024)

Summary: On Feb. 27, Fresno COG submitted its federal fiscal year (FFY) 2024/25 obligation plan to Caltrans’ Division of Local Assistance, which documents the estimated project delivery for the remainder of the year. The obligational authority (OA) target for FFY 2024/25 was set at $19,788,364. As of March 1, the region has obligated $1,563,215 in  in combined Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) improvement funds. This equates to about 7.9% of the OA target. Attached is the list of obligated and deobligated projects from Oct. 1, 2024 through Dec. 31, 2024.

The new federal fiscal year began on Oct. 1. It is the State of California’s goal to exceed the OA target and, in August, receive additional federal funds redistributed from other states to projects pending authorization. Fresno COG continues to encourage all agencies to continue submitting their requests for authorization. If projects do not receive authorization approval in August, they will be delayed to October 2025, the beginning of the new federal fiscal year 2025/26.

Please keep Fresno COG staff updated on any changes that could impact the region’s project delivery plan. Contact Blake Rincon at 559-233-4148 ext. 203 or brincon@fresnocog.org with any questions regarding fiscal year deadlines or the process of obligating project funds.

Action: Information. The Committee may provide additional direction at its discretion.

2025-08_Title_VI_Resolution

Summary: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance. Specifically, Title VI provides that “no person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” (42 U.S.C. Section 2000d).

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requires that all direct recipients document compliance of Title VI requirements and guidelines by submitting a Title VI Program to their FTA regional civil rights officer once every three years.

Fresno COG’s latest update is due May 1. The draft 2025 Title VI Program has been updated pursuant to FTA’s 2012 Circular 4702.1B.  The full document with appendices is available through this link: 2025-Title-VI-Plan_draft.docx

Action: Staff requests the TTC/PAC recommend the Board approve Resolution 2025-08 to adopt the 2025 Fresno COG Title VI Program.

Summary:  The Policy Board will hold a public hearing to take comments regarding unmet public transportation needs that are reasonable to meet within the Fresno County region during the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Staff will return to the Board in June with the final Unmet Transit Needs Report, following approvals from the Social Services Technical Advisory Committee (SSTAC), TTC and PAC. To date, 34 comments have been received pertaining to transit service.

Action: Information. The TTC/PAC may provide additional direction at its discretion.

Summary:  The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, which supports planning, infrastructure, behavioral, and operational efforts to prevent fatalities and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users.

Up to $982.2 million in program funding is available, with $402.2 million for planning and demonstration grants, and $580 million for implementation grants. The application deadline is 5 p.m. EDT, June 26. DOT will accept pre-application requests to review implementation grant eligibility by 5 p.m. EDT May 9.

Eligible project types include: developing or updating an action plan; conducting planning, design, and development activities for projects and strategies identified in action plans; and implementing projects and strategies identified in action plans. At least 40 percent of total funding made available for the SS4A program in FY 2025 must be awarded to develop action plans, including supplemental planning to update existing action plans.

There is generally a 20 percent nonfederal cost share requirement. In-kind or cash contributions toward local match requirements may be used to meet the non-federal match.

For more information, see the NOFO website: https://www.transportation.gov/grants/SS4A

Action: Information. The Committee may provide additional direction at its discretion.

STIP Amendment No 1_Resolution_2025-10

Summary:  In November 2023, Fresno COG’s Policy Board approved programming the region’s newest share of State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) funding — $42.3 million — on the American Avenue interchange project along State Route 99.  In the prior STIP submittal, Fresno COG had placed $45.3 million on the Cedar/North interchange at SR 99, with $42.3 million programmed in 2025-26. These actions followed Fresno COG’s historic practice of leveraging STIP funding on Measure C priority projects from its Regional Program.

With approximately $11 million obligated to date between the two interchanges for environmental review and design, the projects are now facing multiple obstacles, including a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) lawsuit over their environmental document that have delayed both projects’ development. Consequently, project sponsor Caltrans has recommended Fresno COG request a delay in the STIP funding availability from FY 2025-26 to FY 2027-28 for the Cedar/North interchange. American Avenue already has its $42.3 million share of STIP funding programmed for FY 2027-28.

This request requires Fresno COG to solicit the California Transportation Commission (CTC) to move the funding at its June 2025 meeting via a Board-approved resolution; however, no change in funding amounts is required.

Action: Staff requests that the TTC/PAC recommend the Policy Board approve Resolution 2025-10 requesting the CTC amend the STIP to shift $42.3 million on the SR 99/Cedar/North interchange from FY 2025-26 to FY 2027-28.

Summary: The Measure C Transit-Oriented Infrastructure for Infill Development (TOD) Program was established as part of the 2006 Measure C Extension Plan to boost transit ridership through transit-supportive land uses and infrastructure improvements, as well as planning activities. It serves as seed money to promote walkable, bikeable and transit-friendly communities that are healthy, livable and vibrant. It is estimated to accrue nearly $850,000 annually with a total of $17 million for the entire 20-year lifespan. The 13th funding cycle, with roll-over money from previous cycles and returned funding from an undelivered project, has approximately $1.5 million available for programming.  

Fresno COG received three applications from three jurisdictions including the cities of Fresno and Clovis, and County of Fresno. The scoring committee comprised a member from a west side city, east side city, Clovis Transit, FAX, City of Fresno, City of Clovis, County of Fresno, Fresno County Transportation Authority, and the public. The committee met on March 18 and offers the following funding recommendations: 

1. City of Clovis: 135 Osmun Senior Apartments Pedestrian Sidewalk Connection

The City of Clovis requested $427,714 to fund pedestrian connectivity to ensure direct access to the amenities in the project neighborhood. This project also involves design and civil engineering improvements for off-site infrastructure along Osmun Avenue and Baron Avenue. The work will include site preparation, roadway enhancements, sidewalk and curb installation, traffic control measures, and other necessary civil improvements. The goal is to improve accessibility, pedestrian safety, and overall roadway functionality. The scoring committee recommends funding $427,714. 

2. City of Fresno: Blackstone Smart Mobility Project Shields to Dakota

The City of Fresno requested $1 million to complete funding for the design and construction of this segment. Transportation infrastructure elements include a road diet on Blackstone from Shields to Dakota, converting the six-lane roadway to a four-lane facility; Class IV bicycle facilities on Blackstone between Shields and Dakota, connecting with similar funded improvements south of Shields Avenue; a HAWK pedestrian beacon at the intersection of Blackstone and Garland Avenues; and sidewalks to fill gaps on Blackstone and Dakota Avenues. To date, approximately 65 percent of the project design and construction costs have been funded through the State’s Affordable Housing Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program. The scoring committee recommends funding $855,329. 

3. County of Fresno: Pedestrian/Bike Improvements on Chestnut from Shields Ave to Clinton Ave

The County of Fresno requested $1,227,487 build sidewalks and bike lanes on a half-mile County-maintained section of the street to complement adjacent, city-maintained segments which already have both filling a gap in safety infrastructure. There are also six transit stops within this stretch, some of which are in unsafe locations and must be made ADA compliant. The scoring committee recommends funding $236,957. This would fund engineering, environmental, and right of way, allowing the project to be “shovel ready.”

Action: Staff and the Measure C TOD Scoring Committee request the TTC/PAC recommend the Policy Board approve funding recommendations for the Measure C TOD Program’s 13th funding cycle. 

2025-09 OWP FY 2025-26 Resolution

2025-26_OWP Executive Summary 040225

2025-26 OWP FINAL 2025-04-04

Summary: The final, fiscal year (FY) 2025-26 Overall Work Program (OWP), totaling $35.2 million is submitted for committee and Board consideration. The proposed budget increased $90,994 from the draft submitted in February to add additional funding for Fresno COG’s formula contribution in support of the Valleywide V-TRANSFORM effort, which is a freight mobility study throughout the San Joaquin Valley. In short, the proposed budget decreased $11.1 million from last year. Operational revenues remain intact and reserves are adequate.

The largest part of the decrease, $4,054,228, is attributed to completion of the planning phase of Regional Early Action Plan (REAP 1) funds provided by the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

A $1,306,913 decrease in Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Planning (PL) revenues reflects progress completed on the Regional Pavement Management system.

A $3,743,953 decrease reflected phase II construction progress on Fresno County Rural Transit Agency’s (FCRTA’s) Selma maintenance facility.

There was also a significant $2,545,913 decrease in in-kind revenues from transit operators that provided a local match for vehicles purchased through the FTA 5310 program, as well as the match requirement on the Federal Transit Authority (FTA) 5339 grant.

Federal revenues decreased a net of 42 percent or $6,107,607, reflective of the above-mentioned transit facility construction and vehicle procurements.

State revenues decreased 21 percent, $4,193,680, primarily due to the above-mentioned REAP grant.

Local revenues decreased 8 percent, $942,385, resulting from the cash match from transit vehicle procurement.

Staff salaries and benefits increased 4% and 5% respectively as staffing levels remain unchanged from last year. Contingencies are carried for merit-based salary increases as well as for anticipated health insurance increases.

The overall consulting budget is $20.2 million, which decreased $1.5 million from last year.

An expanded executive summary, the final 2025-26 OWP and Resolution 2025-09 are attached to this report.

Action: Staff requests the TTC/PAC recommend the Policy Board approve Resolution 2025-09, adopting Fresno COG’s final 2025-26 Overall Work Program and budget.

DB ECO Proposal Fresno Regional Rail RRFS

Summary: Fresno COG received a Caltrans Sustainable Communities Planning Grant in FY 2024-25 to conduct the Fresno County Regional Rail Feasibility Study. By identifying regional rail corridors with the greatest potential, this study will provide transit operators and local governments with the analysis necessary to evaluate whether a regional rail network is feasible in Fresno County.

The study will analyze the potential for a zero-emission regional rail system in Fresno County, primarily connecting the cities of Fresno, Firebaugh, Kerman, Mendota, Reedley, San Joaquin, Fowler, Selma, Kingsburg and Sanger along the existing and underused San Joaquin Valley Railroad. The potential regional rail network would have a connection to the future California High-Speed Rail system in downtown Fresno, as well as other regionally significant activity centers, including the Fresno County Fairgrounds and the Chaffee Zoo at Roeding Park. The study will include an analysis of zero-emission vehicle technology, existing rail infrastructure conditions, capital and operational cost estimation, and an implementation and phasing strategy, as well as a robust public engagement plan.

In February 2025, Fresno COG issued a request for proposals (RFP) seeking consultants, and formed a scoring committee to review and score the proposals. Staff received four proposals. The scoring committee, comprising representatives from: the City of Kerman, County of Fresno, FCRTA and Fresno COG, selected DB E.C.O. North America Inc. DB E.C.O. is a part of the national German rail operator Deutsche Bahn, operating and maintaining Europe’s largest rail network. DB E.C.O. has extensive experience in developing and operating regional rail networks across the world, including in California. DB E.C.O. is the Early Train Operator for the California High-Speed Rail project, and has worked extensively with the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority in our region.

This study is expected to be concluded by fall 2026.

Action: Staff requests that the TTC/PAC recommend the Policy Board authorize the executive director to enter a contract with DB E.C.O. North America Inc. for the Fresno County Regional Rail Feasibility Study for an amount of $326,188.

2025 Obligation Plans FCOG Pilot Project

Summary: In early November 2024, Caltrans Headquarters’ Division of Local Assistance (HQ DLA) presented Fresno COG staff with the pilot ‘Look Ahead’ Proposal-Pilot Project,” which requires Fresno COG staff, Caltrans District Local Assistance District 6, and Caltrans HQ DLA to communicate more frequently and share project status information for future federal fiscal years (FFYs) outside the current federal fiscal year (FFY) 2024/2025. The pilot project aims to develop strategies to improve obligation authority and then implement those successful strategies statewide.

Fresno COG staff scheduled and administered obligation authority meetings with all member agencies and transit agencies with projects currently programmed in the 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP). The project status information gathered was then included in the pilot project OA plan (attached to this agenda) and submitted to Caltrans HQ DLA and Caltrans Local Assistance District 6 on Feb. 27.

Fresno COG will continue to work closely with Caltrans HQ DLA, Caltrans Local Assistance District 6, our member agencies, and transit agencies to continue to exceed our Obligation Authority target.

Action: Information. The Committee may provide additional direction at its discretion.

Summary: Fresno COG, as part of the Measure C 2026 Expenditure Plan development, invites local jurisdictions, transit agencies, and Caltrans to participate in the Measure C 2026 Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). This Committee will advise the citizens-led Measure C 2026 Renewal Committee, which is responsible for developing a draft and a final expenditure plan for the proposed 2026 Measure C sales tax extension. TAC members will engage in a collaborative, participatory process, contributing their expertise and perspectives as representatives of their agencies. The TAC’s work will help ensure that the expenditure plan reflects the needs and priorities for improvements throughout the region.

Committee members may expect to meet every other month for up to two hours. The first TAC meeting is anticipated to occur from 2-4 p.m. Wed., May 14. All meetings will be held virtually on Zoom, and a recording of each meeting will be available to watch on Fresno COG’s YouTube channel.

Fresno COG staff requests that each jurisdiction, transit agency, and Caltrans District 6 submit a primary and alternate member to the TAC by April 25. Please email Deputy Director Paul Herman (pherman@fresnocog.org) or Brenda Thomas, Communications & Planning Services Manager (bthomas@fresnocog.org) with the name, title, and email address of the primary and alternate members for the Committee. Both the primary and alternate members are encouraged to participate in every meeting to stay informed  throughout the Measure C 2026 Expenditure Plan’s development.

Measure C 2026 Program Manager and Facilitation Kendall Flint with DKS will also provide a brief update on the renewal effort and developments.

Action: Information item.  The Committee may provide additional direction at its discretion.