BREAKING: The Transportation Authority of Marin has just announced a major website overhaul, investing $185,000 to enhance user accessibility and transparency. This urgent initiative, approved on December 8, 2023, aims to set a new standard in government digital services.
The contract, awarded to lowercase productions, a San Francisco-based firm, includes extensive redesign and two years of support services. The agency’s finance director, Melanie Purcell, emphasized the importance of aligning the website with the latest best practices for design and functionality. “We want to design something that really embraces that transparency,” Purcell stated.
The agency’s decision follows a competitive request for proposals launched in September 2023, attracting 27 applications. After careful evaluation, the bid from lowercase productions emerged as the most cost-effective option. Initial steps include gathering feedback from users and staff to identify key areas for improvement.
Testing is set to begin in the summer of 2024, with a full launch anticipated by January 1, 2027. The contract breakdown includes $130,950 dedicated to the website update and launch, with additional funds for maintenance and hosting.
Marin County Supervisor and Transportation Authority board member Mary Sackett stressed the need for modern technology, stating, “I just think the tools in this space are really changing.” Her remarks highlight a growing push for government agencies to adopt cutting-edge digital solutions.
Additionally, Councilmember Steve Burdo raised concerns regarding compliance with accessibility standards. “Is there anything in here to make sure that our digital accessibility is up to scale?” he inquired. Purcell assured him that the vendor’s expertise in creating accessible websites was a critical factor in their selection.
Dan Reider, owner of lowercase productions, expressed confidence in the project, referencing their experience with various government agencies, including Bay Area Rapid Transit and Caltrans. “We’re building for the future,” Reider affirmed, promising a site that will remain viable and effective for years to come.
This website overhaul is not just a technical upgrade; it represents a commitment to enhancing public service and ensuring that digital information is readily accessible to all Marin County residents. With the project set to roll out over the next few years, residents can expect a more intuitive and transparent online experience.
Stay tuned for further updates as this project unfolds, and anticipate a significant shift in how the Transportation Authority of Marin engages with the public online.
