Two separate boards of directors representing the regional bus and rail transit agencies selected Stephen R. Banta to lead Phoenix-based Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) and Metro light rail as CEO. Banta has been serving as the Metro light rail CEO since January 2010, following a national search in 2009.
"We are delighted with the decision to have Steve Banta as the single CEO that will lead both RPTA and Metro," said Tempe Councilmember Shana Ellis who serves as a Board member for both agencies. "It speaks to greater efficiencies as we continue to deal with budget challenges." Ellis led the working group that developed the plans for establishing a dual leadership role that will be governed by two separate boards of directors.
Banta will begin serving in his new role as CEO of both transit agencies on March 1, 2012.