"An efficient and well-run public transportation system is vital to any urban area," Bauer said. "Public transportation takes us to work, takes us to the doctor's office and takes us to the grocery store. I commend CATA for ensuring that all residents of the Greater Lansing area have safe and reliable access to where they need to go."
CATA received the recognition from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), a nonprofit international association of 1,500 member organizations, including bus, rapid transit and commuter rail systems. CATA was ranked No. 1 in the 4-30 million passenger trips category, which includes 106 transit systems.
APTA gives out the award annually to honor transit systems demonstrating exceptional efficiency and effectiveness. Transit systems are judged on services and programs, safety, operations, customer service, financial management, attendance and employee costs, advancement of minorities and women, marketing, policy and administration, and community relations.
"Last year, CATA became the first transit system in Michigan to add full-size hybrid busses to its fleet," Bauer said. "That's just the kind of leadership and progressive thinking that deserves recognition. Congratulations to CATA, and all of its hard-working employees."
Bauer will present the resolution to CATA officials at 11:30 a.m. today in the Speaker's Library at the Capitol Building. CATA representatives will also be recognized by the House and Senate at their separate sessions today.