San Antonio transit chief named among region's best CEOs

San Antonio, Texas-based VIA Metropolitan Transit President/CEO Jeffrey C. Arndt has been named one of the best CEOs in the region by the San Antonio Business Journal.

Arndt joined VIA as deputy CEO and chief of business support services in 2012. Today, he leads the agency that provides transportation services to 14 member cities in the Bexar County region, including San Antonio — the seventh-largest city in the nation.

Each year, the San Antonio Business Journal selects outstanding C-Suite executives for recognition based on leadership and achievements in their professional careers and in the community.

C-Suite Award winners excel in leadership, vision, team building, and integrity, according to the Journal. Arndt was selected for his commitment to diversity, his work for causes championed by the community, and his efforts to transform transit in the region.

During his tenure as head of VIA, Arndt prioritized investments in innovation, implementing the nation’s first free, system-wide Wi-Fi service for an agency of VIA’s size. He spearheaded modern passenger amenities, including a collaboration with the first all-digital library in the U.S. This year, VIA began a full fleet conversion from diesel to CNG vehicles, leading to a 97% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions.

By the end of this year, VIA will have installed 1,000 new shelters throughout its service area, ensuring that 95% of boardings happen in sheltered locations.  

Arndt currently serves on several boards, including the Texas Diversity Council, South West Transit Association, and the Texas Transit Association.