METRO Briefs
Houston’s light-rail leaks electricity MTA considers cell phone service underground CTA faces repairs, possible layoffs
Houston’s light-rail leaks electricity
HOUSTON — A consultant report says that electrical current leaking from Houston’s MetroRail tracks was found at two locations in the Texas Medical Center complex. The report says Metro must control “stray” current to protect area infrastructure. To read the full story, click here.
MTA considers cell phone service underground
NEW YORK — The MTA is moving ahead with plans to bring cell service to all 277 underground subway platforms. Several companies, including a consortium of major wireless providers, submitted bids for the contract. To read the full story, click here.
CTA faces repairs, possible layoffs
CHICAGO — The Chicago Transit Authority has announced that it is reallocating nearly $15 million to make repairs to its rapid transit operation. At the same time, the agency is facing job cuts as part of a contingency plan to take place in September if the state legislature fails to increase transit funding. To read the full story, click here.
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Everett Transit, Community Transit Outline Consolidation Agreement
The proposed agreement calls for a 50% increase in bus service in Everett, a new microtransit zone, continued paratransit service, and the transfer of Everett Transit operations to Community Transit.
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Strada360’s Steve Lassey on Turning Transit Data Into Better Decisions
From breaking down data silos to preparing for AI, Strada360 CEO Steve Lassey discusses how transit agencies can use technology to improve operations, customer information, and long-term decision-making.
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People Movement: Phil Washington Joins HNTB, Denver RTD Launches CEO Search, and More
In this edition, we also spotlight recent personnel moves at STV, the Eno Center for Transportation, and more, highlighting the people taking on new roles across the transportation industry.
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SEPTA Details Accelerate Vision for Transit System
The plan outlines investments in trolley modernization, new Metro and Regional Rail vehicles, accessible stations, and more frequent bus and rail service.
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FTA Ends Direct Oversight of MBTA Safety Actions
The federal agency closed its remaining special directive to the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities following a safety review that began in 2022.
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Report: Transit Bus Manufacturing Supports 34,100 Jobs, $5.1B in GDP
The “Buses Mean Business” report examines the transit bus manufacturing industry’s economic footprint, supply chain, and rising demand for vehicle replacements.
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LIT Marks 10-Year Milestone at Annual Summit
Hosted by the COTA from September 10 to 13, the Summit carried the theme “Celebrating 10 Years of Excellence, Leadership, and Impact,” with every part of the program honoring the people, agencies, and partners who built LIT over its first decade.
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People Movement: Dan Dipert Coaches Adds Third-Generation Leader, Keolis Names New Valley Metro VP/GM, and More
In this edition, we also cover recent appointments and announcements at the Wabtec, SilverRide, HNTB, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
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METRO Opens Submissions for 2026 Motorcoach Awards
Nominations are now being accepted for METRO Magazine’s Operator of the Year and Innovative Operator of the Year awards.
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New York MTA Advances Final Contract for Second Avenue Subway Expansion
Contract Four is the largest in the Second Avenue Subway Phase 2 project and includes construction of station infrastructure, tracks, and signals for the subway expansion, MTA officials said. Work on Contract Four will begin in 2027.
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