SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve an Interlocal Agreement with Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) for the autonomous vehicle (AV) pilot program and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same (consent).
Body
SUMMARY:
This Agreement enables PSTA, in conjunction with BEEP Inc., to deploy two AVs in Clearwater Beach, south of the roundabout. The route is a loop on S. Gulfview Boulevard, from Pier 60 to Parkway Drive, with five passenger stops using existing bus stop pullout lanes, one parking space and possibly, in a private commercial parking lot.
City staff will ensure appropriate pavement markings are placed and the roadway surface is free of potholes. PSTA will coordinate with the City on installing temporary “Autonomous Vehicle testing” caution signs on existing speed limit signposts.
PSTA procured a suitable AV storage location at the Edge Hotel on S. Gulfview Boulevard. Beep has installed their global navigation system on the roof of the Edge Hotel and expects to perform a mapping exercise in late October. PSTA, BEEP and their contractor are in process of coordinating with the City to obtain the required electrical permit to provide power for AV charging stations at the Edge Hotel.
This pilot is anticipated to start in mid-November for a three-month period with an agreement termination no later than March 31, 2022.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: N/A
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS: N/A