Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
GPTC nominees describe electric buses, new fare system and grant successes
Summary
Nominees for the Gary Public Transportation Corporation highlighted recent improvements: electric buses, grant matches, a new electronic fare system and expanded paratransit and intercity connections. Incumbent board members and applicants emphasized recruitment and retention of drivers as a priority.
Anthony Manuel, who identified himself as the GPTC secretary, said electric buses are operating in Gary and described work to expand services for veterans and to develop first-time-homebuyer mortgage programs in partnership with city initiatives. Manuel said he has worked with Indiana Landmarks on plans to repurpose Roosevelt High School and has been involved in efforts to attract investors to that site.
Sharon Levels, a current GPTC board member, credited recent leadership and grant work with increasing ridership, restoring intercity connections (noting Greyhound’s return to the terminal) and implementing a new electronic fare system. She said the board secured matching dollars and recent grants that enabled technology and service upgrades.
Other applicants — including Bruce McKenzie and Preston Ruby — emphasized recruiting and retaining drivers, improving equipment maintenance, and bringing private-sector logistics and claims-management experience to the transit board. Council members asked applicants how they would address retention after recruit training; candidates pointed to pay and workplace conditions as central issues.
Why it matters: GPTC’s service changes affect riders’ commutes, paratransit users and regional connectivity; board appointments may influence ongoing capital and grant strategies.
Next steps: The interview session ended and the council said appointees will be announced at a forthcoming meeting.
