APTA president: Connect Transit award a ‘huge deal’

Posted on October 13, 2015
Mike Melaniphy
APTA President Mike Melaniphy had high remarks for Connect Transit. (Adam Studzinski/WJBC)

By Adam Studzinski

NORMAL – The President of the American Public Transportation System was in the Twin Cities Tuesday to congratulate Connect Transit on being named the APTA 2015 Outstanding Public Transportation System in North America.

Mike Melaniphy said this is a “huge deal” for the transit system.

“This is the best small transit system in North America. It is the Oscars of transit awards. They’ve done an outstanding job,” said Melaniphy. “They have rebranded. They have refocused on their customers. They have made a great customer experience and have seen their ridership grow by huge numbers; over 40 percent in in three years.”

Newly elected U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood (R-Peoria) was also on hand to give his thoughts on the award.

“It’s remarkable that of all of the transportation systems in the entire country, actually in North America, for them to receive this award, Connect Transit, it’s special,” LaHood said.

Melaniphy added the award is also big for the Bloomington-Normal community as a whole. He said it helps put the area in a more competitive place when working to attract more businesses.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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