Human Service Transportation Plan Region 3

Transcription

1 Human Service Transportation Plan Region 3

2 Public Transit Human Service Transportation Plan Region 3 Bureau, DeKalb, Grundy, Kendall, La Salle, Lee, Ogle, and Putnam Counties June 2012 Prepared by: North Central Illinois Council of Governments 613 W. Marquette St. Ottawa, Illinois

3 Table of Contents HSTP Regional Map... 3 Executive Summary... 4 Description of Section 5310, 5316, and 5317 Funding Programs... 6 Section I: Introduction to Region : Objectives : Demographics by County Regional Overview Bureau County DeKalb County Grundy County Kendall County La Salle County Lee County Ogle County Putnam County : Regional Transportation Committee : HSTP in Region Section II: Transportation Service Inventory : Rural Transit Systems Bureau County DeKalb County Grundy County Kendall County La Salle County Lee County Ogle County Putnam County : Section 5310 Human Service Agencies Section III: Needs Assessment : Rider Needs : Popular Trip Destinations Bureau-Putnam Area Rural Transit Grundy Transit System Kendall Area Transit Lee-Ogle Transportation System TransVAC Popular Trip Destinations Map Section IV: Gaps Analysis P a g e

4 4.01: Gaps in Service : Strategies to Address the Gaps : Opportunities for Coordination : Current Coordination Initiatives Section V: Transportation Projects : Current Proposals of Projects Proposed Section 5310 Projects Proposed Section 5316 Projects Proposed Section 5317 Projects : Capital Projects : Strategies for Transit System Growth Bureau-Putnam Area Rural Transit Grundy Transit System Kendall Area Transit Lee-Ogle Transportation System North Central Area Transit TransVAC Appendix A Acronyms Appendix B 2010 U.S. Census Bureau Statistical Information Appendix C Popular Trip Destination Survey P a g e

5 HSTP Regional Map 3 P a g e

6 Executive Summary The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) contracted with North Central Illinois Council of Governments (NCICG) to prepare a plan that creates a comprehensive strategy to improve the coordination and cooperation of transportation providers in the region and to overcome identified barriers that cause gaps in access to services in the rural areas. The plan is one of the requirements set forth within SAFETEA-LU (Safe Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users). The plan is developed through a process that includes participation from public and private transportation service providers, human service providers, publically elected officials, and the general public within a defined region. Illinois has been divided into 11 regions (See: HSTP Regional Map, page 2); these regions include all counties in Illinois with the exception of 6 counties in the northeast region (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties). IDOT contracted with the North Central Illinois Council of Governments (NCICG) to carry out the functions associated with the Human Services Transportation Plan (HSTP). NCICG created a Regional Transportation Committee (RTC) to guide the planning process. The RTC consists of a variety of agencies and organizations that provide and/or benefit from public transportation. The process was delineated by IDOT Division of Public and Intermodal Transportation (DPIT). Section I of this plan includes a demographic analysis of the region. Demographic information with regards to population, age, racial status, disability status, veteran status, and economic status for each of the counties is discussed. This information was obtained from 2010 U.S. Census Bureau data. An explanation of how the RTC operates is given as well. Finally, this section seeks to explain many successes that have occurred. Section II of the plan includes an inventory describing current transportation service providers in Region 3. All 8 counties in the region have a form of county-wide transportation. In addition to transit systems, several human service agencies provide transportation to a specific clientele. Sections III and IV of the plan include an analysis of the needs of individuals as well as the gaps in transportation services. These sections include strategies that will address the needs and gaps. Through collaboration with stakeholders involved with transportation services, several potential strategies to solve these issues have been developed. Opportunities for coordination as well as coordination strategies currently taking place are listed. Information for these sections was largely derived from one-on-one interviews with public transportation providers, surveys, and ongoing discussions with the RTC. 4 P a g e

7 Section V of the plan describes projects that transit systems are either seeking to implement or are seeking funding to do. These include the Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC) and New Freedom grants. Finally, this section will outline potential strategies that transit systems are conducting in the short and long-term to increase ridership and/or customer service standards. 5 P a g e

8 Description of Section 5310, 5316, and 5317 Funding Programs Section 5310: Elderly Individuals and Individuals with Disabilities The Section 5310 program was established in 1975 as a discretionary capital assistance program. It provides formula funding to states for the purpose of assisting private, non-profit groups in meeting the transportation needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities. Funds are allocated based on each state s share of population for these groups. The federal share of eligible capital costs may not exceed 80 percent of the net cost of the activity. The local share of eligible capital costs shall be no less than 20 percent of the net cost of the activity. Funds are obligated based on the annual program of projects included in a statewide grant application. The state agency ensures that local applicants and project activities are eligible and in compliance with federal requirements; and that the program provides for coordination of federally assisted transportation services assisted by other federal funding sources. Once the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) approves the application, funds are available for state administration of its program and for allocation to individual sub recipients within the state. In the State of Illinois, Section 5310 funds are distributed to grantee via the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement (CVP). When a grantee is awarded the funds it comes in the form of a vehicle. There is no distribution of money. Vehicles are awarded to the grantee on a lien from the state. Vehicles are expected to be kept in good working order. In Region 3, CVP applications are sent to the HSTP Office to review for completion. Once completed, the Regional Transportation Committee (RTC) decides whether or not the application meets the specifications of the HSTP Plan and SAFETEA-LU and votes on whether or not to endorse applications. For more information on the RTC, please see Section 1.03, page 35. Endorsed applications are sent to IDOT for further approval. Section 5316: Job Access and Reverse Commute The Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) program was established in 1998 as part of the Transportation Equity Act (later replaced by the SAFETEA-LU legislation) to serve welfare recipients and low-income families. It was intended to help low-income individuals successfully transition from welfare to work and reach needed employment support services such as childcare and job training activities. A grant recipient may be a local government authority, non-profit organization, or the operator of public transportation services. 6 P a g e

9 Funds are available for capital, planning, and operating expenses that support new or expanded services to low-income individuals, who are traveling to and from jobs and activities related to their employment. Funds are allocated by a formula based on the number of low-income and welfare recipients in the state. JARC funding may be used to finance up to 80% of capital costs and up to 50% of the operating costs. Local match is required to cover the remaining costs. Eligible agencies seeking JARC funds must have their project derived from a locally developed and coordinated transportation plan. In the State of Illinois, agencies in areas considered rural (population less than 50,000 people) must submit projects to their local HSTP Regional Office. JARC projects may be financed for up to two (2) years. IDOT reviews all projects periodically for effectiveness. In Region 3, JARC applications are sent to the HSTP Office to review for completion. Once completed, the Regional Transportation Committee (RTC) decides whether or not the application meets the specifications of the HSTP Plan and SAFETEA-LU and votes on whether or not to endorse applications. Section 5317: New Freedom Program The New Freedom Program is authorized in SAFETEA-LU to support new public transportation services and public transportation alternatives beyond those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of The New Freedom grant was first enacted in Lack of adequate transportation to work is a primary barrier for individuals with disabilities. The New Freedom formula grant program seeks to expand the transportation mobility options available to individuals with disabilities. A grant recipient may be a local government authority, non-profit organization, or the operator of public transportation services. Funds are available for capital and operating expenses that support new or innovative transportation services that go beyond the requirements set by the ADA. Funds are allocated by a formula based on the number of individuals with disabilities in the state. New Freedom Program funding may be used to finance up to 80% of capital costs and up to 50% of the operating costs. Local match is required to cover the remaining costs. Eligible agencies seeking New Freedom Program funds must have their project derived from a locally developed, coordinated transportation plan. In the State of Illinois, agencies in areas considered rural (population less than 50,000 people) must submit projects to their local HSTP Regional Office. New Freedom Program projects may be financed for up to two (2) years; however, eligible agencies may apply for additional funding beyond the two (2) years. IDOT reviews all projects periodically for effectiveness. 7 P a g e

10 In Region 3, New Freedom applications are sent to the HSTP Office to review for completion. Once completed, the Regional Transportation Committee (RTC) decides whether or not the application meets the specifications of the HSTP Plan and SAFETEA-LU and votes on whether or not to endorse applications. 8 P a g e

11 Section 1.01: Objectives Section I: Introduction to Region 3 This plan seeks to accomplish several objectives: To give an accurate description of current regional demographics - Statistical information distributed by the U.S. Census Bureau provides a snapshot of the characteristics of the population in to each of the counties. Statistical information from the U.S Census Bureau may be especially beneficial when applying for transportation grants. To identify the gaps in the service - Through the use of maps, studies, and surveys; gaps in service and service needs are identified. Solutions are given to address the gaps and needs. Much like the description of regional demographics, this information will help make a case when applying for various grants. To identify the key stakeholders in the delivery of transportation services - Without their support the plans and strategies identified in this plan are unattainable. Idea-sharing is constantly cited as the most beneficial aspect of HSTP. To provide an inventory of services in the region - When organizations coordinate their services, more effective transportation methods can be obtained. Coordination dramatically reduces inefficiencies in current services provided. This plan outlines several of these services that are currently available as well as methods by which to coordinate these services. To describe the role of the HSTP Process - Since its inception, the HSTP Process has continually helped in the process of providing more transportation services at a lower cost to more people. To provide a snapshot of the transportation services that exist - Transit systems and human service agencies throughout the region pursue numerous transportation activities. This plan also seeks to show the services that are offered as well as transportation activities that various organizations wish to pursue. To provide transit systems an opportunity to see what other organizations in the region are doing with respect to transportation and coordination. Information sharing is a means by which positive activities can be highlighted and replicated where possible. 9 P a g e

12 Section 1.02: Demographics by County The demographic information that has been made available in this plan was done so using the 2010 Demographic Profile Data from the U.S. Census Bureau. The only exception is the statistical information for the economic profile, disability, and veteran information. This information was derived from the American Community Survey, also conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau. Additional demographics can be found in Appendix B. Regional Overview From 1990 to 2010 Region 3 has experienced a 36.0% increase in population growth. This outpaces Illinois increase of 12.2% by 23.8% and the national increase of 24.3% by 11.7%. From 1990 to 2010 Region 3 saw an additional 136,030 people added to its population. Most of the population gains are attributed to Kendall County, which has seen an increase of 191.1% from 1990 to Kendall County accounts for an increase of 75,323 people or about 55.4% of the total increase for the region. (Figure 1.1) Region 3 Population (2010) 600, , , , , , , , , ,000 0 Figure 1.1 The age demographics in Region 3 are similar to the age demographics of Illinois. In each of the three age categories the difference is never greater than 1.0%. La Salle and Lee Counties have the highest 65+ population in the region. Kendall County has a significantly large Under 18 population. At 31.4%, Kendall County is 6.2% higher than the regional average and 7% higher 10 P a g e

13 than the state average. Overall, there is some fluctuation within each of the age categories. (Figure 1.2) Region 3 Age Demographics (2010) 100.0% 90.0% 18.1% 9.8% 11.1% 7.3% 16.4% 15.7% 15.2% 17.8% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 58.6% 67.9% 61.6% 61.3% 60.6% 62.8% 60.1% 60.9% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% Under % 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% 23.3% Bureau County 22.3% DeKalb County 27.3% Grundy County 31.4% 23.0% 21.5% Kendall La Salle Lee County County County 24.8% Ogle County 21.3% 25.2% Putnam Region County % 24.0% Illinois United States Figure 1.2 Region 3 is vastly different than the rest of the state and the nation with respect to its racial demographics. People identified as White constitute an overwhelming 89.4% of the population in the region. This is 17.9% above the state average of 71.5% and 17.0% above the national average of 72.4%. The largest minority in the region are the Black or African American population constituting 3.6% of the population. This is significantly below the national average of 12.6% as well as the state average of 14.5%. (Figure 1.3) 11 P a g e

14 3.6% 0.3% 1.5% Region 3 Racial Demographics (2010) 3.5% 1.7% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian Some Other Race 89.4% Two or More Races Figure 1.3 The percentage of people in the region with disabilities that are non-institutionalized is 9.1%; which is 2.9% lower than the national percentage of 12.0% and 1.1% lower than the state average of 10.2%. Lee County has the highest population percentage at 13.0% and Kendall County has the lowest population percent at 5.6%. As of the American Community Survey estimates, the census did not survey for disability information in Putnam County. The data that is available for Putnam County is not comparable to the rest of the data in this section. (Figure 1.4) Percentage of Non-institutionalized People with Disabilities (2010) United States 12.0% Illinois 10.2% Region 3 9.1% Bureau 12.8% DeKalb 7.2% Grundy 9.4% Kendall 5.6% La Salle 11.8% Lee 13.0% Ogle 9.2% Putnam Unavailable Figure P a g e

15 Of U.S. civilians 18 and older, approximately 9.6% are civilian veterans in the country. The state of Illinois falls below this percentage with 8% of the adult population reported as civilian veterans. In the region, approximately 9.5% of individuals are considered civilian veterans. Putnam County reported the highest percentage at 13.3%, while DeKalb County reported the lowest percentage at 7.5%. (Figure 1.5) Percentage of Civilian Veterans (2010) United States 9.6% Illinois 8.0% Region 3 9.5% Bureau 11.5% DeKalb 7.5% Grundy 8.8% Kendall 7.9% La Salle 11.2% Lee 11.0% Ogle 10.8% Putnam 13.3% Figure 1.5 Households in Region 3 have a higher average median household income than households throughout Illinois and the United States. The median household income in the region is $59,042; this is $4,032 higher than the median household income in Illinois and $7,820 higher than the nation. However, it is important to note the impact that Kendall County has on the region. Kendall County has a large population and much higher average median household income than the region. This creates a disproportional influence on the average median household income in the region. When Kendall County is not included in the average the region s average median household income of $59,042 drops by $6,439 to $52,603. Without Kendall County the region is $2,407 below the state median household income and $1,381 above the national median household income. For the purposes the HSTP Plan, all comparisons will be conducted using the original regional median household income of $59,042, which includes Kendall County in the calculation. (Figure 1.6) The unemployment average in Region 3 is 9.6%; this is the same as the Illinois average, but it is 0.6% above the national average of 9.0%. La Salle County has the highest unemployment at 11.3% and Kendall County has the lowest unemployment at 7.7%. While the regional average is 9.6% it is important to recognize that Kendall County has a disproportional influence on the unemployment data. Kendall County has a large population and an unemployment percentage far below the regional average. Without Kendall County the region s unemployment percentage increases from 9.6% to 10.2%. At 10.2%, the unemployment in the region is 0.6% above Illinois 13 P a g e

16 unemployment and 1.2% above the national unemployment. For the purposes of the HSTP Plan, all comparisons will be conducted using the original regional unemployment average of 9.6%, which includes Kendall County in the calculation. (Figure 1.6) Families in Region 3 living below the poverty line account for 6.9% of the total population. This is 2.7% below the state average of 9.6% and 3.6% below the national average of 10.5%. Bureau County has the highest percentage of families living below the poverty line with 9.0% and Kendall County has the lowest percentage of families living below the poverty line with 2.7%. While the regional average is 6.9%, it is important to recognize that Kendall County has a disproportional influence on the data. Kendall County has a large population and a much lower than average of families living below the poverty line. Without Kendall County, the region s percentage of families living below the poverty line increases to 8.1%. This is still remains below the state average of 9.6% and the national average of 10.5%. For the purposes of the HSTP Plan, all comparisons will be conducted using the original regional average of families living below the poverty line of 6.9%, which includes Kendall County in the calculation. (Figure 1.6) Economic Profile (2010) Median Household Income Unemployment Percentage of families living below the poverty line in the past 12 months United States $51, % 10.5% Illinois $55, % 9.6% Region 3 *$59, % 6.9% Bureau $45, % 9.0% DeKalb $51, % 8.5% Grundy $62, % 6.9% Kendall $81, % 2.7% La Salle $52, % 7.9% Lee $46, % 8.3% Ogle $55, % 8.1% Putnam Unavailable Unavailable Unavailable Region 3 (Without *$52, % 8.1% Kendall County) Figure 1.6 *$59,042 and $52,603 are not the median household incomes for the region. They are the average median household income for the region. 14 P a g e

17 Bureau County In 2010, Bureau County had a total population of 34,978. Bureau County has been experiencing a slow decline in its population. From 1990 to 2000 Bureau County lost 0.5% of its population and from 2000 to 2010 it lost 1.5%. In total, from 1990 to 2010, Bureau lost 2% of its population. Bureau County is the only county in the region to experience a population decline in 2000, 2007, and (Figure 1.7) 35,800 35,600 35,400 Bureau County Population (2010) 35,688 35,503 35,200 35,036 35,000 34,800 34,978 34, Figure 1.7 Bureau County s Under 18 population is 23.3%; this is 1.9% below the regional average of 25.2% and 1.1% below the state average of 24.4%. Individuals comprise 58.6% of the population; this is 3.7% below the regional average of 62.3% and 4.5% below the state average of 63.1%. Bureau County is the lowest in the region in this age category and the only county in Region 3 whose population falls below 60% of the total population. Bureau County s population of 65+ constitutes 18.1% of the population; this is 5.6% higher than the regional average and state averages of 12.5%. (Figure 1.8) 15 P a g e

18 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Bureau County Age Demographics (2010) 18.1% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 58.6% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 23.3% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% Bureau County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 Aside from Putnam County, Bureau County has the second highest percentage of individuals identified as White in the region at 94.2%; this is 4.8% higher than the region average of 89.4% and 22.7% higher than the state average of 71.5%. The largest minority group is individuals that are Some Other Race. Some Other Race constitutes 3.0% of the county s population. Even though this is the highest minority group in the county, it still falls 0.5% below the regional average of 3.5%. (Figure 1.9) 16 P a g e

19 Bureau County Racial Demographics (2010) 0.3% 0.7% 3.0% 0.6% 1.3% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian Some Other Race 94.2% Two or More Races Figure 1.9 Bureau County has the second highest percentage of people with disabilities in the region. A total of 12.8% of the non-institutionalized population in the county has a disability. This exceeds the regional average of 9.1% by 3.7% and the state average of 10.2%. (Figure 1.4) Of Bureau County residents 18 and older, approximately 11.5% are civilian veterans. This is the second highest in the region; it exceeds the regional average of 9.5% by 2% and the state average of 8.0% by 3.5%. (Figure 1.5) Bureau County falls below the regional average for median household income and unemployment, but has a higher than average percentage of families living below the poverty line. Bureau County has the lowest median household income of any county in the region at $45,658. This is $13,384 less than the regional median household income of 59,042 and $9,352 below the state median household income of $55,010. Bureau County s unemployment rate is 8.4%. This is 1.2% lower than the regional and state averages of 9.6%. Bureau County has the highest percentage of families living below the poverty line in the region. At 9.0%, Bureau County is higher than the regional percentage of 6.9% by 2.1%, but lower than the state percentage of 9.6% by 0.6%. (Figure 1.6) 17 P a g e

20 DeKalb County In 2010, DeKalb County had a population of 105,160. They have experienced higher growth rates than the regional, state, and national averages. From 1990 to 2000 DeKalb County saw an increase in population of 14.2% and from 2000 to 2010 a population increase of 18.2%. In total, from 1990 to 2010 DeKalb saw a population growth rate of 34.9%. With DeKalb s proximity to Chicago, they should continue to experience positive growth particularly along their eastern border. (Figure 1.10) 120, ,000 80,000 DeKalb County Population (2010) 103,729 88,969 77, ,160 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 Figure 1.10 DeKalb County falls below the regional, state, and national averages in two age categories: Under 18 and 65+. DeKalb County s Under 18 population is 22.3%; this is 2.9% below the regional average of 25.2% and 2.1% below the state average of 24.4%. The 65+ population is 9.8% of the population; this is 2.7% below the regional and state averages of 12.5%. DeKalb County s population is 67.9%; this is 5.6% higher than the regional average of 62.3% and 4.8% higher than the state average if 63.1%. DeKalb County is home to Northern Illinois University and Kishwaukee College. According to the Illinois Board of Higher Education, in 2010 the enrollment at NIU was 23,850 and the enrollment at Kishwaukee College is 4,989. This may impact the category. In the 2010 census, 22,000 people in the county identified themselves as students. (Figure 1.11) 18 P a g e

21 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Dekalb County Age Demographics (2010) 9.8% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 67.9% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 22.3% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% DeKalb County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 Much like the rest of the region, individuals identified as White constitute the vast majority of the population. Of the people in DeKalb County 85.1% are White. Despite being 4.3% below the regional average of 89.4%, DeKalb County is still 13.6% higher than the state average of 71.5%. Black or African Americans are the largest minority group in the county holding 6.4% of the population. This is 2.8% higher than the regional average of 3.6%, but still 8.1% below the state average of 14.5%. (Figure 1.12) 19 P a g e

22 6.4% DeKalb County Racial Demographics (2010) 2.3% 3.9% 2.0% 0.3% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian 85.1% Some Other Race Two or More Races Figure 1.12 DeKalb County has the second lowest percentage of people with disabilities in the region. Only 7.2% of the non-institutionalized population in the county has a disability. This is 1.9% below the regional average of 9.1%. (Figure 1.4) Of DeKalb County residents 18 and older, approximately 7.5% are civilian veterans in the county. This is the lowest percentage in the region. This is lower than the regional average of 9.5% by 2% and lower than the state average of 8.0% by 0.5%. (Figure 1.5) DeKalb County falls below the regional average for median household income but is above the averages for unemployment and families living below the poverty line. DeKalb County has a median household income of $51,241; this is $7,801 below the regional average median income of $59,042 and $3,769 below the state average of $55,010. DeKalb County s unemployment rate is 9.9%; this is 0.3% higher than the regional and state averages of 9.6%. DeKalb County has the second highest percentage of families living below the poverty line in the region. At 8.5%, DeKalb County is higher than the regional percentage of 6.9% by 1.6%, but lower than the state percentage of 9.6% by 1.1%. (Figure 1.6) 20 P a g e

23 Grundy County In 2010, Grundy County had a population of 50,063. Grundy County has seen rather large population changes in the last 20 years. From 1990 to 2000 the population increased by 16.1%. From 2000 to 2010, Grundy experienced an even greater expansion with a 33.4% increase to its population. In total, from 1990 to 2010 Grundy County saw a population increase of 54.8%. (Figure 1.13) 60,000 50,000 Grundy County Population (2010) 46,513 50,063 40,000 30,000 32,337 37,535 20,000 10, Figure 1.13 Grundy has the second highest percent of the population Under 18 in the region (Kendall has the highest). At 27.3%, Grundy County is 2.1% higher than the regional average and 2.9% above the state average. The population is 61.6%; this is 0.7% below the regional average of 62.3% and 1.5% below the state average of 63.1%. They have a slightly lower than average 65+ population with 11.1% of people identifying as such; this is 1.4% below the regional and state averages. (Figure 1.14) 21 P a g e

24 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Grundy County Age demographics (2010) 11.1% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 61.6% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 27.3% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% Grundy County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 Individuals identified as White constitute 93.7% of the population; this is 4.3% higher than the regional average of 89.4% and 22.2% above the state average of 71.5%. Some Other Race is the largest minority group in the county, sitting at 2.7%. That is 0.8% below the regional average of 3.5%. (Figure 1.15) Grundy County Racial Demographics (2010) 0.7% 2.7% 0.2% 1.2% 1.5% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian Some Other Race 93.7% Two or More Races Figure P a g e

25 The percentage of people with disabilities that are non-institutionalized in Grundy County is 9.4%, which is 0.3% above the regional average of 9.1% but 0.8% below the state average of 10.2%. (Figure 1.4) Of Grundy County residents 18 and older, approximately 8.8% are civilian veterans. This percentage is 0.7% below the regional average of 9.5%, but greater than the state average of 8% by 0.8%. (Figure 1.5) Grundy County is above the regional average for median household income and unemployment. Grundy County remains equal with the region for families below the poverty line. Grundy County has the second highest median household income in the region with $62,436; this is $3,394 above the regional average median income of $59,042 and $7,426 above the state average of $55,010. Grundy County s unemployment rate is 10.1%; this is 0.5% higher than the regional and state averages of 9.6%. In Grundy County, 6.9% of families are living below the poverty line. This is the same as the regional average but 2.7% below the state average of 9.6%. Kendall County In 2010, Kendall County had a total population of 114,736. From 1990 to 2000 Kendall County saw a population increase of 38.4% and from 2000 to 2010 they saw a massive increase of 110.4%. During 2000 and 2010, Kendall County was the fastest growing county in the entire nation among counties with populations of 10,000 or more. (Figure 1.16) 140,000 Kendall County Population (2010) 120, , ,000 96,818 80,000 60,000 40,000 20, ,413 54,544 Figure P a g e

26 Kendall County has the highest percentage of Under 18 and the lowest percentage of people 65+ in the region. The Under 18 population, which constitutes 31.4% of the population, is 6.2% above the regional average of 25.2% and 7.0% above the state average of 24.4%. Those individuals comprise 61.3% of the population; this is 1.0% below the regional average of 62.3% and 1.8% below the state average of 63.1%. The amount of people in Kendall County that are 65+ constitute 7.3% of the population which is 5.2% below the regional and state averages of 12.5%. (Figure 1.17) 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Kendall County Age Demographics (2010) 7.3% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 61.3% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 31.4% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% Kendall County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 Kendall County has the lowest percentage of people identified as White in the entire region at 83.6%, which is 5.8% below the regional average of 89.4%. Despite this, they are 12.1% above the state average of 71.5% and the largest racial group in the county. The largest minority group in the county is the Black or African Americans. They constitute 5.7% of the population, which is 2.1% above the regional average of 3.6% but still 8.8% below the state average of 14.5%. (Figure 1.18) 24 P a g e

27 Kendall County Racial Demographics (2010) 5.1% 2.3% 3.0% 0.3% White 5.7% Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian 83.6% Some Other Race Two or More Races Figure 1.18 The percentage of people with disabilities that are non-institutionalized in Kendall County is 5.6%. This is 3.5% below the regional average of 9.1% and 4.6% below the state average of 10.2%. Kendall County has the lowest percentage of non-institutionalized people with disabilities in the region. (Figure 1.4) Of Kendall County residents 18 and older, approximately 7.9% are civilian veterans in the county. This is 1.6% lower than the regional average of 9.5% but only 0.1% below the state average of 8.0%. Among the entire region, Kendall County is the second lowest for civilian veterans. (Figure 1.5) Based on the three (3) economic conditions (median household income, unemployment, and poverty) in this section, Kendall County is prospering in all three (3) areas. At $81,135, Kendall County has a median household income that is $22,093 above the regional average of $59,042 and $26,125 higher than the state average of $55,010. The unemployment rate in Kendall County is 7.7%; this is 1.9% below the regional and state averages. Only 2.7% of families in Kendall County are living below the poverty line; this is 4.2% below the regional average of 6.9% and 6.9% below the state average of 9.6%.Kendall County has the highest median household income in the region and the lowest number of unemployment and lowest number of families below the poverty line in the entire region. (Figure 1.6) 25 P a g e

28 La Salle County In 2010, La Salle County had a total population of 113,924. In the past 20 years, La Salle County has seen small population gains. From 1990 to 2000, there was an increase in population of 4.3% and from 2000 to 2010 there was an increase in population of 2.2%. In total, from 1990 to 2010 La Salle County experienced a 6.6% increase in population. (Figure 1.19) 116, , , , , , , ,000 La Salle County Population (2010) 112, , , ,924 Figure 1.19 Individuals Under 18 in La Salle County account for 23.0%; this is 22.2% lower than the regional average of 25.2% and 1.4% below the state average of 24.4%. Individuals constitute 60.6% of the population; this is 1.7% below the regional average of 62.3% and 2.5% below the state average of 63.1%. La Salle County has the second highest percentage of 65+ in the region. Bureau County has the highest percentage. La Salle County s 65+ population is 16.4% of the population; this is 3.9% higher than the regional and state average of 12.5%. (Figure 1.20) 26 P a g e

29 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% La Salle County Age Demographics (2010) 16.4% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 60.6% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 23.0% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% La Salle County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 The percentage of individuals identified as White in La Salle County is 93.2%, which is 3.8% higher than the regional average of 89.4%. The largest minority group in La Salle County are the Black or African Americans which comprise 1.9% of the population. This falls 1.7% below the regional average of 3.6% and 12.6% below the state average of 14.5%. (Figure 1.21) La Salle County Racial Demographics (2010) 0.3% 0.7% 2.5% 1.4% 1.9% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian Some Other Race 93.2% Two or More Races Figure P a g e

30 The percentage of people with disabilities that are non-institutionalized in La Salle County is 11.8%, which is 2.7% above the regional average of 9.1% and 1.6% below the state average of 10.2%. (Figure 1.4) Of La Salle County residents 18 and older, approximately 11.2% are civilian veterans in the county. This is 1.7% greater than the regional average of 9.5% and 3.2% below the state average of 8.0%. (Figure 1.5) La Salle County falls below the regional average for the median household income and the percentage of families living below the poverty line and is above the regional unemployment averages. La Salle County has a median household income of $52,136; this is $6,906 below the regional average median income of $59,042 and $2,874 below the state average of $55,010. La Salle County s unemployment rate is the highest in the region at 11.3%; this is 1.7% higher than the regional and state averages of 9.6%. In La Salle County, 7.9% of families are living below the poverty line. This is 1.0% above the regional average of 6.9%, but 1.7% below the state average of 9.6%. (Figure 1.6) Lee County In 2010, Lee County had a total population of 36,031. From 1990 to 2000 the population increased by 4.9% and from 2000 to 2010 the population saw a decrease that was less than.01%. In total, from 1990 to 2010 Lee County experienced a 4.8% increase in population. (Figure 1.22) Lee County Population (2010) 36,500 36,000 36,062 35,450 36,031 35,500 35,000 34,392 34,500 34,000 33, Figure P a g e

31 Lee County had the second lowest Under 18 population in the region; second only to Putnam County. The Under 18 population accounted for 21.5% of the total population which is 3.7% below the regional average of 25.2% and 2.9% below the state average of 24.4%. Individuals constitute 62.8% of the population in Lee County; this is 0.5% above the regional average of 62.3% but 0.3% below the state average of 63.1%. The 65+ population is 15.7% which is 3.2% higher than the regional and state average of 12.5%. (Figure 1.23) 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Lee County Age Demographics (2010) 15.7% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 62.8% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 21.5% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% Lee County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 Lee County has a high population of people identified as White. Individuals identified as White constitute 90.9% of the population which 1.5% higher than the regional average of 89.4% and 19.4% above the state average of 71.5%. The largest minority group in Lee County is the Black or African Americans which constitutes 4.8% of the population. This is 1.2% higher than the regional average of 3.6%. This is still 9.7% below the state average of 14.5%. (Figure 1.24) 29 P a g e

32 4.8% Lee County Racial Demographics (2010) 0.2% 0.7% 1.9% 1.5% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian Some Other Race 90.9% Two or More Races Figure 1.24 The percentage of people with disabilities that are non-institutionalized in Lee County is 13.0%. This is 3.9% above the regional average of 9.1% and 2.8% above the state average of 10.2%. Lee County has the highest percentage of non-institutionalized people with disabilities in the region. (Figure 1.4) Of Lee County residents 18 and older, approximately 11.0% are civilian veterans in the county. This is 1.5% higher than the regional average of 9.5% and 3.0% above the state average of 8.0%. (Figure 1.5) Lee County falls below the regional average for the median household income and unemployment and has a higher percentage of families living below the poverty line. Lee County has a median household income of $46,201; this is $12,841 below the regional average median income of $59,042 and $8,809 below the state average of $55,010. Lee County has an unemployment rate of 8.9%; this is 0.7% lower than the regional and state averages of 9.6%. In Lee County, 8.3% of families are living below the poverty line. This is 1.4% above the regional average of 6.9%, but 1.3% below the state average of 9.6%. (Figure 1.6) 30 P a g e

33 Ogle County In 2010, Ogle County had a total population of 53,497. From 1990 to 2000, Ogle County saw an increase of 11.0% in population and from 2000 to 2010 it saw an increase of 4.8% in population. (Figure 1.25) 56,000 54,000 52,000 50,000 Ogle County Population (2010) 51,032 55,011 53,497 48,000 45,957 46,000 44,000 42,000 40, Figure 1.25 The percentage of the Under 18 and stays relatively consistent with the rest of the region and state. Individuals Under 18 constitute 24.8% of Ogle County s population; this is 0.4% less than the regional average of 25.2% but.04% above the state average of 24.4%. The population constitutes 60.1% of the population; this is 2.2% below the regional average of 62.3% and 3.0% below the state average of 63.1%. The 65+ population in Ogle County is at 15.2% which is 2.7% above the regional and state average of 12.5%. (Figure 1.26) 31 P a g e

34 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Ogle County Age Demographics (2010) 15.2% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 60.1% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 24.8% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% Ogle County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 Ogle County has a large White population with 93.2% of people identifying themselves as such. The highest minority population is individuals identified as Some Other Race. They comprise 3.8% which is very close to the regional average of 3.6%, but 2.9% below the state average of 6.7%. (Figure 1.27) 0.9% Ogle County Racial Demographics (2010) 0.5% 0.2% 3.8% 1.4% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian Some Other Race 93.2% Two or More Races Figure P a g e

35 The percentage of people with disabilities that are non-institutionalized in Ogle County is 9.2%. This is only 0.1% above the regional average of 9.1% but 1.0% below the state average of 10.2%. (Figure 1.4) Of Ogle County residents 18 and older, approximately 10.8% are civilian veterans in the county. This is 1.3% higher than the regional average of 9.5% and 2.8% above the state average of 8.0%. (Figure 1.5) Ogle County falls below the regional average for the median household income and above the regional average in unemployment and the percentage of families living below the poverty line. Ogle County has a median household income of $55,925; this is $3,117 below the regional average median income of $59,042 but $915 above the state average of $55,010. Ogle County s unemployment rate is 10.0%; this is 0.4% higher than the regional and state averages of 9.6%. In Ogle County, 8.1% of families are living below the poverty line. This is 1.2% above the regional average of 6.9%, but 1.5% below the state average of 9.6%. (Figure 1.6) Putnam County In 2010, Putnam County had a total population of 6,006. They are the smallest county in the region and one of the smallest in the state in terms of population. From 1990 to 2000 Putnam County saw a 6.2% increase in population, but from 2000 to 2010 the population decreased by 1.3%. In total, from 1990 to 2000 Putnam County had a 4.8% increase in population. (Figure 1.28) 6,200 6,100 6,000 Putnam County Population (2010) 6,086 6,014 6,006 5,900 5,800 5,700 5,730 5,600 5, Figure P a g e

36 Compared with the rest of the region, Putnam County had the lowest percentage of individuals Under 18 with 21.3%. This is 3.9% below the regional average of 25.2% and 3.1% below the state average of 24.4%. Individual constitute 60.9% of the population in Putnam County; this is 1.4% below the regional average of 62.3% and 2.2% below the state average of 63.1%. Putnam County is second only to Bureau County for the highest percentage of the 65+ population at 17.8%. Putnam County is 5.3% higher than the regional and state averages of 12.5%. (Figure 1.29) 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Putnam County Age Demographics (2010) 17.8% 12.5% 12.5% 13.0% 60.9% 62.3% 63.1% 62.9% 21.3% 25.2% 24.4% 24.0% Putnam County Region 3 Illinois United States Figure Under 18 Putnam County is the least diverse of all the counties in the region. In Putnam County, 96.6% of individuals identify themselves as White. This is 7.2% higher than the regional average of 89.4% and 25.1% higher than the state average of 71.5%. The largest minority group in the county is Some Other Race. They constitute 1.4% of the total population. This is 2.2% below the regional average of 3.6% and 5.3% below the state average of 6.7%. (Figure 1.30) 34 P a g e

37 Putnam County Racial Demographics (2010) 0.1% 0.5% 0.2% 1.4% 1.2% White Black or African American American Indian and Alaskan Native Asian Some Other Race 96.6% Two or More Races Figure 1.30 Of Putnam County residents 18 and older, approximately 13.3% are civilian veterans in the county. This is 3.8% higher than the regional average of 9.5% and 5.3% above the state average of 8.0%. Putnam County has the highest percentage of civilian veterans in the region. (Figure 1.5) Disability and economic statistics were unavailable for Putnam County. 35 P a g e

38 Section 1.03: Regional Transportation Committee One of the primary purposes of HSTP is to provide an environment by which agencies, representing all members of society, have a voice on issues related to transportation in their region. To serve this purpose, the Regional Transportation Committee (RTC) was developed; consisting of human service agencies, transit systems and elected officials. The RTC consists of both voting and non-voting members. Voting members determine which projects related to Section 5310, 5316, and 5317 are to be recommended for IDOT consideration as well as decide for which transportation-related projects to write letters of support for. Each county in the region can have up to three (3) voting members on the RTC. While voting is restricted to voting members, participation from non-voting agencies continues to remain high. When people representing different interests gather there is an opportunity to meet a larger diversity of needs. Voting members of the RTC as of the adoption of this plan consists of the following: Regional Transportation Committee Voting Member Primary Representative County Bureau County Seniors Center Denise Ihrig Bureau Gateway Services/BPART Mike Neuenkirchen Bureau Grundy County Board Richard Joyce Grundy Grundy Transit System Sherey Zerbian Grundy Illinois Central School Bus Pat McCarthy La Salle Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living Brian Szuda La Salle KAT Paul LaLonde Kendall Kreider Services, Inc. Greg Gates Lee Lee County Council on Aging Geoff Vanderlin Lee LOTS Kathy Lalley Lee Mendota Area Senior Services Carol Kern La Salle Open Door Rehabilitation Center Barb Erickson Kendall Putnam County Achievements Center Pat Croissant Putnam Rock River Center Karen Copeland Ogle St. Margaret s Hospital Lisa Clinton Bureau Voluntary Action Center Tom Zucker DeKalb Figure P a g e

39 Section 1.04: HSTP in Region 3 The following information was derived from public transportation operators in Region 3 via inperson interviews in the spring of HSTP has created a mechanism by which quick answers on transportation-related questions can be obtained. Having the HSTP Coordinator reaching out to the region they serve has brought several people to the table that otherwise would not have been present. The more stakeholders that are present at the table, the more opportunities there are for all members of the public to receive the transportation options they need. During the Interagency Coordinating Council on Transportation (ICCT) Primer Process 1, several important contacts were made; however, it was through the HSTP Process that the transit system operator was able to get to know the contact and began to truly coordinate services. HSTP has created a forum by which there can be a mass exchange of ideas. This concept of idea-sharing has been described as one (1) of the most valuable benefits of HSTP. The Edward Hines, Jr. Veteran Affairs Hospital has taken an interest in the services that HSTP offers. After connecting with the RTC in the spring of 2012, contacts have been made and opportunities for medical transportation for veterans throughout the region are on the verge of increasing. HSTP and the veteran organization throughout the state are beginning to work together for the common goal of providing transportation to our nation s veterans. Utilizing HSTP as a resource has been a great strategy by which new transit systems can gain the necessary information to appropriately delivery their services. Much of this comes back to the ability to network with one another more regularly. HSTP exposes many of the potential funding sources that exist that may not have been known to the RTC. HSTP has the potential to expose weaknesses in transit system operation. By doing so, the transit system can gain the valuable input of individuals involved in HSTP and improve their services accordingly. 1 The ICCT Primer Process was developed by the Rural Transit Assistance Center. It is a process by which a transit system may be developed in Illinois. The purpose of this process is to bring together interested stakeholders, conduct surveys, and develop an action plan for the implementation of a transit system. 37 P a g e