FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Chris Stocking, info@clefortransit.org, (216) 714-2164
Clevelanders for Public Transit Optimistic About New CEO / GM Candidate
Cleveland, OH, July, 3, 2019
Following a lengthy CEO search process, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority’s Board of Trustees announced today that they have entered into negotiations with India Birdsong for RTA’s CEO and General Manager position. Clevelanders for Public Transit welcomes Birdsong and is hopeful that her leadership will result in positive change for RTA, especially changes that will directly benefit transit riders.
Because of reduced revenues as a result of population sprawl, reduced state funding and the loss of Medicaid Managed Care sales tax revenue, RTA has reduced service and increased fares. As the value proposition of transit has worsened, many riders have found other options and RTA has experienced record low ridership. CPT is optimistic that Birdsong will help end this cycle by seeking creative funding solutions and by leading RTA to a positive, rider-oriented culture that increases the value of transit and makes transit an easier choice for more residents of Cuyahoga County.
Although CPT believes RTA’s board of trustees should have initiated the executive search process sooner and should have allowed for more robust community engagement such as the public forum announced at the March 5 External and Stakeholder Relations and Advocacy Committee Meeting, CPT is pleased to have been consulted by Krauthamer and Associates during the executive search and CPT appreciates that rider input was reflected in the final job description.
CPT thanks Dr. Caver for his service as Interim GM/CEO and is looking forward to meeting with Birdsong during our next staff meeting. CPT is optimistic that Birdsong and CPT will enjoy a strong working relationship while collaborating to address rider needs.
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Clevelanders for Public Transit is a riders’ organization that builds power for affordable, accessible and equitable public transit in Northeast Ohio. For more information, visit clefortransit.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.