The back-to-back hurricanes that swept through the Southeastern U.S. brought unimaginable destruction to the region. Many places are far from recovered, with tens of thousands of people still without power in some areas.

But behind the scenes, transportation networks need to keep running. People need to be evacuated to safety. Supplies have to get through. Emergency workers need to get to where they are needed.

This week we pull back the curtain with a special episode focused on how our transportation networks prepare for and recover from disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton. On this special episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort connected with six transportation leaders in Florida about the preparations, their Emergency Operations Centers, and what happens now to recover.

We hear from:

• Brad Miller, CEO of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority
• Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO of Broward County Transit (BCT)
• Dave Dech, Executive Director of the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority/Tri-Rail
• Ivan Maldonado, Executive Director of Palm Tran
• Tiffany Homler Hawkins, CEO of Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority (LYNX)
• Greg Slater, CEO/Executive Director of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority

This is a unique episode that only Transit Unplugged can bring you! Make sure you tune in and share with your transit colleagues.

Next week on the show, we have Mass Transit Magazine 40 Under 40 winner Schneider St. Preux talking about his 12 year transit career trajectory from bus operator to General Superintendent of Bus Operations for the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works. Schneider tells Paul what it took to build his career and his advice for other up and coming leaders in the industry.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Introduction to the Eye of the Storm

00:45 Brad Miller: Riding Out the Storm

01:17 Coree Cuff Lonergan: Tornadoes and Transit

01:33 Ivan Moldanado: Coordination and Preparation

01:54 Tiffany Homler Hawkins: Orlando's Response

02:22 Dave Dech: TriRail's Role in the Crisis

02:44 Greg Slater: Road Networks and Disaster Management

03:43Brad Miller: Firsthand Hurricane Experience

11:03 Brad Miller: Evacuation and Recovery Efforts

21:19 Dave Dech: TriRail's Hurricane Preparedness

32:11 Coree Cuff Lonergan on Broward County's Hurricane Response

36:03 Ivan Maldonado Discusses PalmTran's Challenges

44:10 Tiffany Homler Hawkins on LYNX's Hurricane Preparedness

52:54 Greg Slater on Tampa's Expressway and Hurricane Resilience

01:01:22 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

This week on Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort interviews Brandon Nurmi, Director of Arrowhead Transit in Minnesota. Paul and Brandon discuss the unique challenges of operating a public transportation system across a vast, sparsely populated rural area. Brandon shares his journey in the transit sector, the geographical and logistical hurdles his team faces, the role of volunteer-driven programs, and the technological advancements aiding rural transit systems.

As Arrowhead Transit celebrates its 50th anniversary, Brandon highlights how essential public transit is in rural areas for accessing jobs, healthcare, and reducing social isolation. Tune in to learn about the vital role of rural transit in community development and the collaborations that bolster these efforts.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Introduction to Rural Public Transportation

00:57 Challenges of Rural Transit Systems

01:23 Interview with Brandon Nurmi: Director of Arrowhead Transit

02:39 Celebrating 50 Years of Arrowhead Transit

03:25 Geographical and Operational Challenges

06:11 The Role of Technology and Volunteer Programs

09:17 Funding and Community Development

12:59 Social Connectivity and Partnerships

14:37 Future Expansion Plans

16:00 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort chats with paratransit thought leaders:

• Andre Colaiace from LA Access Services
• Chris Pangilinan from New York MTA
• Eileen Collins Turvey from Portland's TriMet

They dive into how Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) are shaking up paratransit, making everything smoother for riders and more affordable for agencies. We get a rundown of their systems, highlighting how they're tackling daily challenges and boosting efficiency.

Sponsored by Uber Transit, this episode also looks at how public-private partnerships are changing the game for public transportation. It’s a deep dive into the practical steps being taken to improve and modernize paratransit services.

Uber recently published Transit Horizons 2.0: The Mobility Evolution. This industry perspective paper explores how public-private partnerships have and can enhance public transportation. It’s available for download at uber.com/transithorizons.

Coming up next week we talk about the essential role transit plays in rural communities. Our guest is Brandon Nurmi, Director of Arrowhead Transit in Eastern Minnesota. We often forget that in many rural communities there are few alternatives to transit. There aren't many TNCs and often people have to travel long distances for things like doctors and school. Thanks to transit, and a legion of volunteer drivers, people in rural areas can get where they need to go.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Uber Paratransit with intro

00:53 Evolution of Paratransit Services

01:11 Meet the Leaders of Paratransit Systems

03:34 Discussion with Chris Pangilinan - New York City

04:01 Discussion with Andre Colaiace - Los Angeles

05:16 Discussion with Eileen Collins Turvey - Portland

06:43 Challenges and Innovations in Paratransit

07:41 Utilizing TNCs and Taxis for Paratransit

13:46 Technology Integration in Paratransit

18:31 Future of Paratransit Services

22:39 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

On this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Ryan Coholan, the Chief Operating Officer of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA or The T) in Boston.

Ever heard of a COO who drives his own train to work? Ryan is one of a few (only?) COOs who has kept up his Locomotive Engineer's License and regularly drives the train from his home in the suburbs into Boston. Ryan likes to stay connected with the work he's responsible for, not to mention when the COO calls and says there's an issue on a stretch of track, it gets fixed.

With nearly 30 years of transit experience, Ryan talks about running one of America's largest transit systems and shares stories of MBTA's recent wins, like ending speed restrictions on rail lines, introducing contactless fares, and even getting chatbot support. Paul and Ryan also dive into some serious business – like getting agreements in place with all their labor unions for the first time in 15 years.

Paul and Ryan wrap up their conversation with some electrifying news (literally) about The T's move towards battery electric trains. Ryan's got big plans to make it all happen and leveraging as much existing infrastructure as possible. This is a ride you won't want to miss!

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:24 Ryan's Journey to Work

02:22 Overview of MBTA and Its Unique Structure

06:51 Role and Responsibilities of the COO

09:25 Financial Health and Strategic Investments

12:22 Speed Restrictions and Infrastructure Improvements

20:05 Innovations in Customer Experience

23:38 Labor Agreements and Workforce Relations

25:23 Commuter Rail Developments and Electrification

30:45 Conclusion and Vision for the Future

31:57 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

This week we bring you a special episode sponsored by Uber Transit. Across the U.S., Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) are filling important gaps in transit networks. From giving rides to late night shift workers to helping elderly and disabled riders access the world around them, TNCs make sure "transit deserts" aren't "mobility deserts."

Recently, Paul sat down with Bonnie Epstein of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), Carlos Cruz-Casas of Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works, and Robert Betts from Marin Transit to talk about the different ways TNCs, have not only transformed their transit networks, but their communities as well. PSTA was the first agency in the U.S. to work with Uber Transit to help late night shift workers get to and from work when regular transit wasn't running.

Since its start in 2016, PSTA has helped thousands of people get to work, break into the workforce, and grow their careers. Now this model is being used in Miami-Dade to re-connect riders with the larger transit system after their system reorganization, and in Marin County on-demand transit is letting their aging population age in place and still stay active in their community.

This episode is sponsored by Uber Transit, who recently published Transit Horizons 2.0: The Mobility Evolution. This industry perspective paper explores how public-private partnerships have and can enhance public transportation. It’s available for download at uber.com/transithorizons.

Coming up next week we learn about all the improvements being made in Boston by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority in an interview with MBTA COO Ryan Coholan.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Expanding Your Reach: Leveraging TNCs in Transit

01:07 Episode Overview and Sponsorship

01:57 Guest Introductions

04:36 Marin Transit: Catch A Ride Program

05:38 PSTA: TD Late Shift Program

08:24 Miami-Dade: Better Bus Network Solutions

11:32 Discussion on Transit Innovations

17:21 Marin County

17:21 Personal Stories and Impact

24:32 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul talks with Philip Gerhardt, the Head of Bus Performance at Transport for London (TfL). Philip talks about what it's like keeping the over 650 bus routes moving smoothly at one of the world's largest public transport networks.

And Philip doesn't just have to worry about the iconic double-decker red buses, he needs to make sure all bus routes--including the express routes around London--connect with all the other modes from The Tube and light rail to the Elizabeth Line and ferries. Paul and Philip talk about the details of bus performance and how TfL works with its private operator partners to deliver world-class bus service. Philip also reflects on his career journey and the passion behind TFL's iconic red buses (like many of us he fell into his transit career).

Coming up next week on the show, we have a special episode we've done in conjunction with Uber Transit. Paul will be talking with Bonnie Epstein of PSTA, Carlos Cruz Casas of Miami Dade County, and Robert Betts of Marin County, talking about how TNCs like Uber have helped them expand their service offerings with micro transit that help shift workers, the disabled, and the elderly.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:41 Meet Philip Gerhart: Head of Bus Performance at TfL

01:35 The Role of TfL's Bus Operators

02:04 Ensuring Reliability and Efficiency

03:09 The Importance of London's Bus Network

05:48 Night Bus Network and Women's Safety

06:25 The Iconic Red Double Decker Buses

08:16 Adapting to Passenger Needs

11:48 Phil's Journey in the Transport Industry

19:00 The Superloop: London's Express Bus Network

23:25 Success Stories and Future Plans

25:49 Conclusion and Farewell

26:03 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

The bus manufacturing crisis has been looming for years as more and more OEMs dropped out. But the final straw was when Proterra filed for bankruptcy protection and REV Group said it was closing its ENC facility to focus on the Canadian market. In the blink of an eye the U.S. was down to two major bus manufacturers: GILLIG and New Flyer. This put the entire public transit industry into crisis mode. Delivery times for new buses went from 12-18 months to 18-24 months--and longer.

How did we get this point?

It's not an easy answer, but a combination of contract terms, the pandemic, supply chain issues, and the transition to zero-emissions buses all factored in. But this week Paul dives into it with former FTA Administrator and Managing Partner at Cardinal Infrastructure Sherry Little, along with Jennifer McNeill (Vice President of Public Sector Sales and Marketing) and Stephanie Laubenstein (Director of Sales and Business Development) from New Flyer.

They talk about all the causes and how the industry came together to find real, tangible solutions that will help the OEM bus industry get back on its feet and come back stronger for the future.

Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged we have Philip Gerhardt head of Transport for London's Head Bus Performance to talk with Paul about optimizing the over 650 bus routes across London that serve millions of riders each day.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Resolving the Bus Manufacturing Crisis: Challenges, Changes, and the Path Ahead

00:05 Paul buying his first bus and an intro to the episode

03:09 Introduction and Guest Welcome

03:41 Current State of the Bus Manufacturing Industry

04:41 Challenges and Advocacy Efforts

06:59 Legislative and Policy Changes

11:09 Impact of the Pandemic on Bus Manufacturing

14:13 Recovery and Future Outlook

15:34 Customization and Standardization in Bus Manufacturing

25:45 Transition to Zero Emission Buses

31:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

34:48 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Join Paul Comfort as he takes you behind the scenes of Vienna's renowned public transit system, Wiener Linien. Discover the secrets behind the network, from seamless mobility chains to their innovative climate ticket. CEO Alexandra Reinagl shares insights on the city's strong commitment to public transport, decarbonizing the bus fleet, and the collaborative efforts in urban planning that make Vienna the world's most livable city. Enjoy a virtual tour of Vienna's transit infrastructure, cultural highlights, and future mobility visions in this captivating episode.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:38 Exploring Vienna's Transit System

02:12 Interview with CEO Alexandra Reinagl

02:42 Vienna's Commitment to Public Transport

04:07 Innovative Mobility Solutions

04:43 Annual Pass and Climate Ticket

07:07 Construction and Communication Strategies

10:14 Wiener Linien's Organizational Structure

16:35 Decarbonizing the Bus Fleet

18:47 Vision for the Future of Mobility

20:48 Conclusion and Farewell

20:56 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Miami's First-in-the-Nation All-Electric Transit Operations Center with Eulois Cleckley and Angel Andre Chavarria

Around the world agencies are switching to low or no carbon buses and with that change comes an even bigger challenge: infrastructure. Battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell, even CNG buses, all require new and different refueling/recharging systems, different maintenance set ups, and sometimes even completely different spaces.

This week you'll get to hear about a bus garage that is the first-of-its-kind in the U.S, a state-of-the-are facility designed to house, charge, and repair 100, 60 foot battery electric articulated buses. These buses will be a core part of a new 20 mile, all electric Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line in Miami.

Eulois Cleckley, CEO of Miami-Dade Dept. of Public Works and Transportation gives host Paul Comfort all the details why this facility is crucial for fast-growing Miami and then WSP SVP Angel Andre Chavarria tell us how they overcame huge challenges in planning and construction to make it possible and break ground.

Next week on the show we head to Austria to learn all about Vienna's amazing multi-modal transit system with Wiener Linien CEO Alexandra Rienagl.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

0:00 Miami's First-in-the-Nation All-Electric Transit Operations Center with Eulois Cleckley and Angel Andre Chavarria

00:04 Introduction from host Paul Comfort

00:21 Miami Dade's New Transit Operations Center

00:51 Meet the Guests: Eulois Cleckley and Angel Andre Chavarria

02:19 Innovative Features of the New Facility

04:33 Groundbreaking Ceremony and Construction Details

08:04 Funding this massive and critical project

09:43 Challenging construction, innovative solutions

16:08 Additional Support and Community Benefits

18:43 Future of Miami's Public Transportation

22:28 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort continues his Alaska adventure with Fairbanks, as part of his California and Alaska series. Paul starts with sharing his 12-hour train journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks through Denali National Park--which was nearly cancelled because of wildfires!

In Fairbanks, he chats with Fairbanks transit leaders Michelle Denton, Corey DiRutigliano, and Dey Johnson about the unique challenges of running a transit system in Fairbanks' extreme weather conditions.

Together with Paul, explore the history of Fairbanks, the impact of its discontinuous permafrost tundra on infrastructure, and the exciting new improvements with a brand-new transit facility. Tune in for a blend of history, adventure, and insights into making transit work in one of America's most fascinating and rugged landscapes.

Coming up next week we head to the opposite corner of the U.S. and Miami! We're going to highlight the new Miami-Dade electric bus depot with Eulois Cleckley and Angel Andre Chavarria and how this first-in-the-nation project is going to put Miami at the forefront of battery electric transit.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

00:00 Fairbanks Transit: Harnessing Extreme Weather for Extreme Innovation

00:26 Journey Through Alaska: From Anchorage to Fairbanks

01:56 Exploring Fairbanks: History and Modern Day

06:14 Fairbanks' Unique Environment and Challenges

11:07 Fairbanks Transit System: Innovations and Operations

19:27 Future of Fairbanks Transit and Final Thoughts

21:48 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Imagine running a transit system where moose crossing the road in town is just your average day. Where winters are long, dark and cold, but summer is hot and has 22 hours of daylight.

That's transit in Alaska.

In this first of two episodes from Alaska, Paul Comfort takes us to Anchorage. This week you'll hear from Jamie Acton, Executive Director of Public Transportation, and Bart Rudolph, Transit Planning & Communications Manager for the Municipality of Anchorage talking about the system and what it's like to be Alaskans.

Paul delves into what makes Anchorage's transit system unique, and the challenges they face with lowering emissions and alternative fuel sources. They also discuss Anchorage's active lifestyle, the U-Pass program for employers, and the communal spirit of Alaskans. Paul shares his reflections on the remarkable natural beauty and historic significance of Alaska, providing listeners with a gritty, on-the-scene experience.

Next week, we'll bring you part 2 from Fairbanks, the most Northern large city in the U.S., where the temperatures go from -60F in the winter to +95F in the summer.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

• Host: Paul Comfort
• Producer: Paul Comfort
• Editor and Writer: Tris Hussey
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
• Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected].

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook

Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter

0:00 Anchorage: Transit on the edge of the wilderness

00:05 Introduction to Transit Unplugged

01:24 Road Trip Series Overview

02:13 Personal Reflections on Alaska

03:37 History of Alaska: Seward's Folly

05:12 Anchorage Transit Insights

09:39 Challenges and Innovations in Anchorage Transit

13:06 Unique Aspects of Living in Alaska

18:02 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

18:53 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.