EVs & Bottled Water Deals

June 13, 2024

Happy Thursday, Orlando. Looks like we’ll have a mix of sun and clouds today, with temperatures climbing up to 91 degrees. Keep an eye out for possible thunderstorms in the afternoon ⛈️ Here’s what’s on deck:

  • Subsidized Electric Shuttle Service Coming Soon to Downtown Orlando

  • Orlando Approves Water Deal with Controversial Bottler

Let’s dive in.

TRANSPORTATION

Electric Shuttle Service Coming to Downtown Orlando

Photo: Circuit

The Big Picture: Downtown Orlando is launching an electric shuttle service called Ride DTO this fall to increase visitation and transportation options in the area.

Key Details:

  • Service Overview: Ride DTO will function like a publicly subsidized Uber, offering on-demand, exclusive (non-shared) rides within the downtown Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) via a mobile app. Five mini-shuttles will be operated, including one ADA-compliant vehicle.

  • Cost: Initial fares are expected to be $1 per ride, with potential coupon codes for patrons of downtown restaurants.

  • Operation Hours: The service will run daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., focusing on daytime transportation needs.

  • Start Date: The service is expected to launch in September, with Circuit Transit providing regular ridership and performance reports to the city.

Funding and Duration:

  • Contract: The city approved a one-year contract with Circuit Transit, costing $595,712.50, with options for two one-year extensions and a 3% annual cost increase.

  • Driver Compensation: Unlike autonomous options, Ride DTO shuttles will have drivers earning at least $15 an hour. Tips are appreciated but not required.

Providing Some Context:

  • Comparison: Similar programs by Circuit Transit operate in West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, with varying fare structures.

  • Previous Models: The service is inspired by successful programs like the Downtowner in Tampa, which saw high demand but ended due to the pandemic.

Challenges and Criticisms:

  • Efficiency Concerns: Critics argue that microtransit is less efficient than mass transit due to limited rider capacity.

  • Union Perspective: The Amalgamated Transit Union has expressed concerns about the impact on public transit jobs and diversity of ridership.

Bottom Line: Ride DTO aims to enhance downtown Orlando’s transportation landscape, supporting both residents and businesses while navigating challenges related to efficiency and labor practices.

Read more here (Orlando Weekly)

CONTRACTS

Orlando Approves Water Deal with Controversial Bottler

What's New: Orlando city commissioners have approved a three-year contract with BlueTriton Brands, a bottled water company previously accused of obstructing unionization efforts.

Key Points:

  • Contract Details: The $292,221 contract, starting at $97,407 for the first fiscal year, provides select city departments with bottled water, coolers, and delivery services.

  • Selection Process: BlueTriton was said to be the sole applicant in a request for proposals issued on January 24, with the procurement division choosing them in late March.

  • City officials claim they were unaware of BlueTriton's alleged labor issues when approving the contract.

  • City Services: The contract will supply water to city departments, including Emergency Management during hurricanes, City Hall, the Orlando Police Department, and the Kia Center.

Background:

  • Ownership: Acquired by One Rock Capital Partners and Metropoulos & Co. in 2021, BlueTriton has a history of criticism for anti-worker strategies and environmental concerns.

  • Union Issues: The company faced accusations from the Teamsters of interfering with union activities among their delivery drivers in Davenport, Florida.

  • BlueTriton allegedly threatened worse working conditions if drivers unionized, resulting in a tied union election. The union later withdrew its unfair labor practice charge.

The Bottom Line: Despite concerns, Orlando's deal with BlueTriton will provide essential water services for city departments, though the company's controversial history casts a shadow over the agreement.

Read more here (Orlando Weekly)

QUICK HITS

What Else is Happening?

  1. Kaya restaurant in Orlando was a James Beard finalist, but despite not winning, the team is excited to keep serving their community.

  2. Epic Universe Preview Center is set to open this Friday.

  3. A local animal shelter is hosting a Bridgerton-themed adoption event to find homes for pets.

Thanks for tuning in to today’s edition of the newsletter. See you back here tomorrow.

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