Vanpool Subsidy Request for Information

The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to gather input from vanpool service providers, mobility operators, fleet vendors, and technology partners. SBCAG is exploring a shift from traditional vendor cost-based vanpool structures to a predictable, zone-based fare system where riders pay a consistent monthly fare and the agency covers backend variability. This RFI aims to understand how vendors can support, adapt to, or integrate with such a fixed-fare framework. The information collected will help SBCAG assess the operational, contractual, and technological implications, including vendor pricing, mileage variability management, National Transit Database (NTD) reporting, and handling of fleet, billing, and customer service functions. This initiative is funded through Measure A, a 30-year transportation sales tax program dedicated to commuter-focused Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies. Potential services under a future contract may include vehicle provision, fleet management, maintenance, insurance, customer service, marketing, billing, mileage tracking, and NTD reporting. Respondents are required to download and complete the provided Respondent Questionnaire and may include supplemental documentation.