Trapeze Software customers, TransIT a Maryland-based paratransit service and California-based Western Contra Costa Transit Authority's (WestCAT) express bus service, received awards at recent state shows for exhibiting service efficiencies and helping aid congestion relief.

At the Transportation Association of Maryland  Annual Conference, held in Cumberland, Md., TransIT Services of Frederick County won the 2010 Best Paratransit System Award.

In fiscal year 2010, TransIT was able to serve more than 800 passengers for  $50,000 less than in the 2009 fiscal year. The installation of Mobile Data Terminals that work in conjunction with scheduling software have assisted TransIT in reaching this milestone. The efficiencies of their system have improved as data is transmitted automatically. There has also been a huge reduction in radio traffic, and drivers report being less stressed and able to concentrate more on providing their passenger with superior customer service.

The other honoree, WestCAT's LYNX transbay express bus service was recently honored at the 45th Annual Fall Conference & Expo of the California Transit Association (CTA) as the 2010 recipient of CTA's Small Operator Award for Transit Excellence.

CTA is a statewide association representing virtually all public transit agencies in California. CTA's Small Operator Award for Transit Excellence recognizes an outstanding program or service that demonstrates innovative concepts or effective problem-solving techniques, or promotes a positive image of transit in the community.

WestCAT began operating the LYNX service after the passage of a regional measure increased tolls to support additional transit operations to relieve congestion on San Francisco Bay Area bridges. The service was an immediate success, meeting its goal of removing 100,000 peak trips from Interstate 80 (the region's most congested freeway) in its first year of operation, according to company officials. The LYNX continues to attract new riders and is projected to carry more than 160,000 passengers this year.