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September 18, 2026
Paratransit is undergoing rapid change. Rising demand, workforce shortages, tighter budgets, and higher customer expectations are pushing agencies and service providers to rethink how they manage operations. At the same time, advances in artificial intelligence and automation are creating new opportunities to improve efficiency without sacrificing service quality.
In this edition of METROspectives, METRO Magazine’s Executive Editor Alex Roman spoke with John Hanlon, CEO and co-founder of AlphaRoute, about the evolving role of technology in demand-response transportation. Hanlon discusses how AI-powered tools are helping agencies optimize operations, support frontline staff, and enhance the rider experience as they prepare for the future of mobility.
Interview highlights:
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September 18, 2026
John Hanlon shares how AlphaRoute is leveraging AI-powered technology to help paratransit providers optimize operations, support frontline staff, and enhance the rider experience.
August 5, 2026
In this edition of METROspectives, strada360 CEO Steve Lassey discusses how transit agencies can better align planning with operations, leverage data to improve decision-making, and build public trust as they prepare for the future of mobility.
June 19, 2026
From digital transformation to evolving customer demands, CharterUP's Armir Harris offers his perspective on the transportation industry's next chapter.
June 5, 2026
In this edition of METROspectives, Joshua Schank discusses lessons from launching LA Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation, the challenges of advancing new mobility technologies, and much more.
May 29, 2026
HDR’s transit program management lead discusses the challenges of overseeing large capital projects, adapting to cost and supply chain pressures, and the capabilities agencies need to build for the future.
May 8, 2026
In Part 2 of a two-part conversation, AC Transit’s director of maintenance joins co-hosts Alex Roman and Mark Hollenbeck to discuss his maintenance team’s work with various types of vehicle, training, augmented reality, and more.
April 9, 2026
In Part 1, Blandon shares his journey from the U.S. Marines to a leadership role in public transit, along with insights on mentorship and professional growth within the industry.
March 20, 2026
In this conversation, TBC’s Executive Director Ed Redfern, President Corey Aldridge, and Washington Representative Joel Rubin outline the coalition’s key policy priorities, the challenges facing transit agencies, and how industry stakeholders can work together to strengthen the voice of bus transit at the federal level.
March 18, 2026
Drawing on decades of industry experience, Evans-Benson offered insights into the differences between the two, along with tips for better customer engagement and more.
March 5, 2026
Menard discusses how data-driven signal prioritization is improving efficiency, reliability, and ridership, while offering insight into the innovations driving the next generation of smart mobility. Together, they explore how technology and collaboration are paving the way for a more connected, sustainable future in transit.
February 4, 2026
In this episode of METROspectives, METRO’s Executive Editor Alex Roman sits down with Ana-Maria Tomlinson, Director of Strategic & Cross-Sector Programs at the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group).
