Robert (Bob) Babbitt, president of McDonald Transit, announced his retirement, effective Oct. 31, 2016. Babbitt will continue to stay involved in McDonald Transit, working as a consultant and helping ensure a smooth transition to new leadership.
Babbitt started with McDonald Transit in 1977 in the position of management intern, working his way up the organization in both operating and administrative positions. Babbitt served roles such as GM of Abilene Transit System, manager, administration for Fort Worth Transportation Authority, and for a decade as executive director of Nashville MTA. He was appointed chief financial officer of McDonald Transit in 1981 and, in 2002, was named president.
Ad Loading...
Under Babbitt's leadership, the McDonald Transit team has expanded operations to 17 states. The company serves a total of 32 fixed-route, paratransit and shuttle clients, generating over $100 million in annual revenues. McDonald Transit's largest operation is in Austin, Texas, for Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which carries over 21 million customers each year.
In 2009, McDonald Transit entered into agreement with RATP Dev America, subsidiary of RATP Group, a global transportation company. Babbitt led the recapitalization of McDonald Transit and the modernization of the company's technology. With RATP Dev America, he formed a streetcar operating subdivision known as RDMT. The subdivision operates streetcars in Washington, D.C., and Tucson, Ariz., a new market for McDonald Transit.
The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.
Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.
The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.
The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.
In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.
Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.
