METRO Briefs
Audit raises concerns over RTD bus drivers’ language skills
DENVER — Auditors hired by the Colorado state legislature to assess the Regional Transportation District’s (RTD) security measures said that the limited English skills displayed by some of its bus drivers could endanger passengers in an emergency. Most of the language problems existed with private companies that provide half of RTD’s bus service. For the full story, click here.
Report: Failure to communicate could hinder Boston terror response
BOSTON — A review by a key legislative committee in Boston has found that communication between police, fire and EMS officials during a terror attack on Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority subways would be fragmented, with agencies unable to talk instantly underground. The agency is currently working out the bugs on an $18 million communications system set to roll out within the next six months. For the full story, click here.
VIA to balance higher fares with free perks
SAN ANTONIO — The VIA Metropolitan Transit’s plan to raise fares at the beginning of the year was passed by the Local Governmental Approval Committee by a vote of 6-1. The committee, though, has told VIA to offer riders a free transfer with each ride and let people age 62 and older to ride free on weekends. For the full story, click here.
More Management
ETA CEO John Maglio on Transit Technology, Innovation, and Building Agency Trust
ETA founder and CEO John Maglio explores the evolution of transit technology, the importance of reliable systems, and how stronger partnerships can help agencies improve operations and the passenger experience.
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COTA Launches First Customer Experience Action Plan to Improve Transit Service
The new plan outlines improvements to service reliability, accessibility, communication, and the overall rider experience across Central Ohio's transit system.
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LA Metro September Ridership Climbs 3.9%, Led by Rail Growth
The agency recorded more than 27.2 million boardings, with rail ridership increasing 12.4% year over year and the D Line posting the largest gains.
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Utilimarc Launches SmartReplace to Optimize Fleet Replacement Decisions
AI-powered SmartReplace helps fleets prioritize vehicle replacements, model budget scenarios, and build more defensible long-term strategies.
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APTA Honors 2026 Award Winners, Hall of Fame Inductees at TRANSform & EXPO
Innovations in autonomous and zero-emission transportation, standout transit systems, and industry leadership took center stage among this year's honorees.
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7 Ways to Build a Better Transit Internship Program
Lessons from DRPA/PATCO’s approach to creating a meaningful internship experience—and developing the next generation of transportation professionals.
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Scenes from APTA TRANSform & EXPO 2026
Transit leaders, manufacturers, and industry professionals gathered in Chicago to explore new technologies, share ideas, and discuss the future of public transportation.
Read More →Building Stronger Leaders, More Resilient Transit Teams
Dr. Carol Parker Walsh discusses leadership development, employee retention, workplace culture, and preparing transit’s workforce for AI and automation.
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APTA 2026 TRANSform & EXPO Kicks Off in Chicago
After 45 years, APTA returns to Chicago with a focus on next-generation fleets, AI, connected transit networks, and the funding strategies shaping public transportation’s future.
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New York MTA Warns Federal Tariffs Could Add $1 Billion to Rolling Stock Costs
The agency said tariffs on specialized imported components could reduce the purchasing power of its $23 billion investment in new subway cars, railcars, and buses.
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