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TDA 4.5 Document E(a) Page 7 Suggestions for improvements were noted as part of the assessment; however they focused on increasing service and thereby increasing budget allocations which are difficult to achieve in this economic climate. The consultants also advocated for an effective inter-county transportation agreement to improve accessibility for residents to cross between Alameda, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara Counties. City representatives will be using the assessment findings to help educate decision makers, as well as, residents on the local needs. The development of a community —based strategic plan is also part of the next step in this process in order to address community needs. (Eastern Alameda County 2011 Human Services Needs Assessment: Findings Report February 2012) City of Pleasanton Paratransit Needs Pleasanton Paratransit Services cannot keep up with the growing need for region- wide paratransit services, especially medical appointments. This need continues to increase as hospitals consolidate, doctors specialize, and there are limited HMO affiliates. With the continuing economic challenges, there will be an increased need to try and help seniors subsidize their trips. Increased requests for the City of Pleasanton's Fee Assistance Program will continue to occur. With limited general fund support, this program will not be able to keep up with the demand for financial need and thus low-income seniors will not be able to afford 1:o use the PPS program. Limited availability of MTC TDA 4.5 transportation funds and Measure B pass- through dollars creates challenges in trying to meet the demand for paratransit services. Staff will have to carefully evaluate the limited resources and make decisions on how to best allocate these dollars. Marketing and Outreach Marketing for the Pleasanton Paratransit Services is completed through the City of Pleasanton Community Services Department. Pleasanton Paratransit is promoted in the Activities Guide, produced and distributed to all Pleasanton residents (28,000 households). Program brochures are distributed to local stores, medical offices, the library, schools, service centers, etc. One-page PPS and DTR flyers have been created as inexpensive marketing tools to use in mass mailings and distribution.