CEO Larry Rubio has announced his retirement from the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA), ending a 33-year career providing public transportation to the residents of Riverside County.

Rubio arrived at RTA back in 1988, and he has held several different positions before becoming the CEO in 2001. During his time as CEO, the agency made efforts  in clean-burning fuel; established financial health and clean audits for operating and capital budgets that totaled above $130 million; emphasized a commitment to new services such as mobile ticketing and free WiFi on buses; and created partnerships with area colleges and universities to provide free rides to thousands of students every year. 

“I’m thankful to the many great people in my life who mentored and guided me along this journey,” Rubio said. “I am appreciative of all the employees who make this Agency the best in the nation, and I’m grateful to my supportive wife and family who were always by my side. I know our extraordinary employees and members of the Board of Directors will continue to move RTA forward with their innovative and dedicated service to the Agency and our community.”

In 2004, Rubio was named Hispanic Magazine’s Most Influential Latino in the Inland Empire. In 2008, RTA was named one of the 10 Great Transit Systems to Work For, and in 2011, Rubio earned California Transportation Foundation’s Manager of the Year. 

“Larry Rubio has been an excellent leader, dedicated public servant and a steady guide for progress,” said RTA’s chair of the board Linda Krupa. “His deep knowledge of the transit industry, uncommon humility, ability to form lasting partnerships, innovative thinking and success in making RTA a thriving, community-focused agency has put RTA in a class of its own.”

The RTA Board of Directors is expected to name a successor later this month.