5 key ingredients to a new bus operator training program

During the course of my presentations to large groups, I have come to believe that they are some of the most exciting and inspiring events for transferring critical information regarding bus operator training and safety. Large group presentations are an excellent time to unveil new training concepts and strategies. There is a distinct feel and energy to the room that cannot be duplicated in any other setting.

OCTA CEO: Getting America back to work

More than 250 people gathered today in Orange, Calif. for a first-of-its kind summit to discuss factors that create jobs and offer solutions to expediting transportation projects for America’s future.

Is Transit Ready for the ‘Big One?’

What a week for the East Coast! First, the region was rocked by a "surprise" 5.8 earthquake, now it is looking in the eye of Hurricane Irene — a "once-every-100-years event," which is expected to impact down south in the Carolinas all the way up to Maine. Through it all, public transportation has been there and plans to continue to be there to transport customers and help provide evacuation efforts.

The State of SEPTA’s 'State of Good Repair'

FTA Administrator Rogoff gets an up-close look at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority’s infrastructure issues.

OCTA CEO: Federal transportation bill on the right track

The recently proposed six-year federal transportation reauthorization bill outlines $35 billion in annual funding for transportation projects along with changes to current programs and processes. While this is a decrease in financial support for transportation, it does provide sustainable funding through revenue paid into the Highway Trust Fund.

Carmageddon II: Off the rails

Hot off of last week's incredibly overhyped "Carmageddon," the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) Blue Line light rail system will not be running in my city this weekend because some trees along the line need to be trimmed.

OCTA CEO: Speeding up projects, maximizing environmental benefits

Orange County’s environmental community, state and federal wildlife agencies, and OCTA’s Measure M2 program partnered to preserve about 900 acres of land. This effort protects the county’s natural resources while keeping the promise made to voters to implement 13 freeway projects as part of M2, a half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements approved in 2006.

OCTA CEO: Public employees get the job done even under fire

There has been significant media attention given in recent months to the salaries and benefits that government workers receive. Too often, the focus shifts to an unwarranted judgment on the worth of public employees. I am honored and privileged to serve the people of Orange County and I am surrounded on a daily basis by 1,600 other OCTA employees who feel very much the same way.

Hide-and-seek behind bus mirrors and A-pillars

Bus operators should never drive solely for the moment, but also for what's ahead in their future. As professionals, they are responsible for conducting a SAFE turn, consisting of a safe approach, entry and exit of an intersection.

OCTA CEO: Transportation funding facing a changing landscape

President Dwight D. Eisenhower's Federal Aid Highway Act, signed in 1956, marked the first time in U.S. history the federal government assumed a greater role in providing transportation infrastructure to the nation. Since then, the devolving role of the federal and state government has resulted in local governments stepping up to maintain and expand our transportation infrastructure.