It looks like Simplot and Jones are sticking around for a while longer to help out as chairman and vice chairman of METRO’s board of directors. In my opinion, both have done some great work in the past and I am glad to have had an opportunity to “talk light rail” with each of them in the past.
The photo below is from a fun “clean up day” where Kyle Jones got to talk trash with Tom Simplot and have some fun at the Mesa light rail station.
Following is from a recent METRO news release:
Phoenix Councilman Tom Simplot and Mesa Vice Mayor Kyle Jones will remain as METRO light rail’s Board of Directors Chairman and Vice Chairman, respectively, for fiscal year 2010 – 2011.
“We are extremely pleased to have these two innovative leaders on board to continue to guide METRO on a path of growth and quality service for our current and future riders,” said Stephen R. Banta, METRO CEO.
Councilman Simplot has served as METRO Board Chairman for the past four years; Vice Mayor Jones as Vice Chairman for the past year.
“I am proud to continue to serve as Chair of the METRO Board of Directors,” said Councilman Simplot. “In less than two years, we have seen consistent increases in ridership, expanded late night service and provided a METRO experience that continues to exceed riders’ expectations. I look forward to building on this foundation in the coming year.”
The City of Mesa’s Board involvement will be critical as METRO moves forward with the Central Mesa light rail extension from the current end-of-line at Sycamore, through downtown Mesa, to Mesa Drive by 2016.
“It’s been an honor to represent Mesa on the METRO Board of Directors and I look forward to continuing my service as Vice Chair during what will continue to be an exciting and challenging time, especially with the light rail extension,” said Vice Mayor Jones
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