Wow, it’s already been over 2 years since METRO hired Steve Banta as CEO, replacing former CEO Rick Simonetta. A lot has happened in the Arizona transit world since then and a lot looks to be happening in our future. It seems to make a lot of sense for these agencies to tag Steve with this dual role given his vision of a “Total Transit Network” for our region.
Good luck Steve. You’ve got your hands full and lots of people are watching. 🙂
Transit Boards Select METRO CEO to Run Both Agencies
Citing efficiency and expertise, Steve Banta is chosen for dual role
Phoenix, AZ (Feb. 16, 2012) Today, two separate boards of directors representing the regional bus and rail transit agencies have selected Stephen R. Banta to lead Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) and METRO light rail as the single chief executive officer. Banta has been serving as the METRO light rail CEO since January 2010, following a national search in 2009.
“We are delighted with the decision to have Steve Banta as the single CEO that will lead both RPTA and METRO,” said Tempe Councilmember Shana Ellis who serves as a Board member for both agencies. “It speaks to greater efficiencies as we continue to deal with budget challenges.” Ellis led the working group that developed the plans for establishing a dual leadership role that will be governed by two separate Boards of Directors.
According to the 2012 RPTA Chair, Peoria Vice Mayor Ron Aames, “The selection of Banta was optimal due to his current knowledge of the Valley’s transit environment and extensive bus and rail transit experience at agencies such as TriMet in Portland and the Port Authority in Pittsburgh.”
“I am pleased to have this opportunity and the confidence of both Boards to serve as the single CEO,” said Steve Banta, newly selected CEO for RPTA and METRO. “This is a positive step forward in creating a more efficient and robust transit system, which will result in benefits to our regional customers and communities.”
Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton approved today’s decision. “Cities can think and act regionally on critical issues,” said Stanton. “Delivering an efficient and effective transit system crosses city boundaries and impacts the entire region. This is a step in the right direction.”
Mesa Councilmember and Vice Chair of the METRO light rail Board, Dennis Kavanaugh, stated, “Steve Banta has been an effective leader for METRO light rail and, with his multi-modal transit experience, is the right person to also serve RPTA.” Kavanaugh also served as a representative on the working group with Councilmember Ellis. “The METRO Board has long-been an advocate for a single CEO. It is the best business decision for how we advance transit in the Valley and in this economy.”
Banta will begin serving in his new role as CEO of both transit agencies on March 1, 2012.
Well, Mr. Banta you sure dropped the ball on the First Transit contract, leaving out the provision to provided minimal bus service to the East Valley during a strike. Mrs. Ellis it is an oversight for you also.