The Regional Vanpool Program is designed to create efficient, reliable, and innovative commuting solutions by connecting employees to their workplaces, particularly in areas with limited fixed-route public transit options or lower car ownership rates. This program targets employers and job hubs interested in offering their workforce alternative commuting options while contributing to regional air quality improvements.

The core objectives of the Regional Vanpool Program are to:

• Enhance economic opportunity by ensuring all residents can access employment opportunities.

• Offer new, flexible, and cost-effective transportation choices to reduce travel times.

• Promote competitive and affordable commuting options for workers and

• Support environmental sustainability by improving regional air quality through reduced single-passenger vehicle use.

In issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP), SWART is seeking proposals from experienced and qualified service providers who can deliver a safe, user-friendly, and cost-effective public transportation solution tailored to the needs of the Middle Rio Grande Region. SWART aims to select a provider whose proposal demonstrates the most excellent combination of responsiveness, cost-effectiveness, and overall advantage in addressing the goals and needs of the vanpool program.

Selected service provider will oversee all components of the vanpool program, including but not limited to:

• Vanpool services utilizing the provider’s fleet.

• Fleet maintenance management to ensure safety and reliability.

• Program marketing and employer/rider education to promote participation.

• Development and management of a digital user interface and portal for ease of access;

• Ensuring driver requirements and conducting comprehensive training programs;

• Providing rider support services, including customer assistance as needed;

• Handling invoicing, accounting, and financial reporting; and

• Collecting and analyzing data to assess program performance and trends.

Additionally, the provider will establish and maintain relationships with employers and employees, coordinate agreements, and provide SWART with a quarterly analysis of the vanpool market within the region and connections to out-of-area employment hubs. It is important to note that this is the first vanpool program of its scale and scope within the SWART region. The program is currently in its initial planning phase but is designed to expand and scale to meet the area's evolving transportation needs. Vanpool services are required to begin on March 1, 2025, and operate through August 31, 2026.

SWART values innovation, cost-efficiency, and strategic collaboration in this initiative and looks forward to partnering with a service provider who shares these priorities. The selected provider will play a pivotal role in implementing this transformative program, with the opportunity to shape how residents commute, connect to economic opportunities, and contribute to improved regional environmental conditions.

We encourage all interested and qualified service providers to submit a comprehensive proposal that shows their ability to fulfill the objectives and expectations outlined in this RFP.