San Antonio’s VIA Metropolitan Transit added two new members to its executive management team, who will help strengthen the agency’s focus on growing ridership, implementing its VIA Reimagined Plan, and improving the customer experience.

Marisa Bono, former chief of policy for San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, joins VIA’s Public Engagement Group as chief strategic officer. Bono will create and manage links between external and internal resources and help develop key strategic messaging and relationships with regard to VIA’s long-range vision. Together with VIA’s director, Governmental and Community Relations, she will work to enhance relationships with elected officials, VIA partners, the business community, and other key stakeholders. She will help analyze and evaluate complex issues and make recommendations on appropriate action by VIA.

Curtis Koleber, the former CEO and executive director for the Chatham Area Transit Authority of Savannah, Ga., is the agency’s new head of transportation. Koleber is responsible for overseeing all aspects of bus and paratransit service, and the new VIA Link mobility on-demand service.

He previously served as COO and deputy executive director for the Chatham Area, leading the transportation, maintenance, marine services, customer service, and safety/training/environmental services divisions. He also worked 11 years in Phoenix, with experience ranging from bus operator to transportation supervisor and senior manager.