Arlington, VA — The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) is proud to announce its newly elected Board of Directors for the 2026–2028 term. This distinguished group of leaders reflects the complexity of the modern transportation ecosystem, representing a strategic blend of state Departments of Transportation (DOTs), major transit agencies, and leading private-sector engineering and consulting firms.

Collectively, this board brings over 300 years of combined expertise in infrastructure delivery, transit operations, policy advocacy, and workforce development to advance COMTO’s mission of ensuring transportation serves all. 

“This board is intentionally structured to bridge the gap between policy makers and industry practitioners,” said the incoming Board Chair Dr. Lester Woods Jr., “By uniting leaders from state DOTs, transit agencies, and private firms, we are uniquely positioned to address the most pressing challenges in our industry—from project delivery to workforce retention — ensuring that the future of our nation’s mobility is accessible for all.” 

2026-2028 Board of Directors:

Board Chair: Dr. Lester Woods, Jr., Executive Consultant, First Last Mile Valet Transportation Services (former Chief Administrative Officer, MoDOT)

1st Vice Chair: Kimberly Haynes-Slaughter, Sr. Vice President, Transportation Leader, North America, TYLin 

2nd Vice Chair: Sharon Jean-Baptiste, President, Ardmore Roderick 

Secretary/Treasurer: David Wong, Transportation Business Group Client Development Director, HDR, Inc 

Immediate Past Chair: Tanya Adams, Sr. Vice President, Director, Strategic Partnership, WSP, USA 

Member At-Large: Nancy Daubenberger, Commissioner, Minnesota DOT 

Member At-Large: Garrett T. Eucalitto, Commissioner, Connecticut DOT 

Member At-Large: Debra Johnson, General Manager & CEO, Denver RTD 

Member At-Large: Dr. Karen Philbrick, Executive Director, Mineta Transportation Institute 

Member At-Large: Veronica Vanterpool, Sr. Vice President, Americas Transit Lead, AECOM 

COP Representative: Charlotte Shaw, CEO, MAX Transit 

COP Representative: Edna Stanley, Deputy COO, Transit Service Delivery, LAMETRO 

COP Representative Alternate: Brenda Nnambi, Director of Equity in Contracting, Sound Transit 

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala– The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) has been selected by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau to receive $1 million through the Innovative Finance and Asset Concession (IFAC) Grant Program. 

The award will provide 100% federally funded technical assistance over a 36-month period to help BJCTA evaluate innovative redevelopment and financing opportunities across key agency-owned assets while strengthening long-term financial sustainability and expanding community benefit opportunities. 

Through the grant, BJCTA will procure specialized advisory support to analyze public-private partnership (P3) opportunities, innovative financing strategies, and transit-oriented development (TOD) concepts for three strategic properties in Birmingham: 

• CrossPlex West Transit Center (4812 Avenue W.) 
• Central Station Transit Center (1735 Morris Avenue) 
• Intermodal Administrative Building (1801 Morris Avenue) 

The initiative will focus on identifying opportunities to maximize underutilized space, generate sustainable revenue streams, improve community connectivity, and support long-term transit investment. 

“This award represents more than funding, it is an investment in the future of transit and community development in Birmingham,” said Charlotte Shaw, CEO of BJCTA. “Being selected among only 45 recipients nationwide affirms that innovative thinking can happen at agencies of every size. This grant allows us to explore transformative opportunities that strengthen our system financially while creating meaningful value for our riders and the communities we serve.” 

The project will include market and demand analysis, financial feasibility modeling, public-private partnership structuring, value capture strategies, community engagement, and implementation planning designed to support future redevelopment opportunities. 

Potential outcomes include: 
• Identification of new revenue-generating opportunities to strengthen transit operations 
• Expanded mixed-use and community-focused development opportunities 
• Enhanced connectivity and rider experience around transit hubs 
• Evaluation of affordable commercial and community-serving uses 
• Development of procurement and partnership frameworks for future investment 

BJCTA’s approach is designed to ensure that redevelopment strategies remain grounded in community priorities and equitable outcomes while positioning the agency to pursue future capital and financing opportunities. 

The grant-funded work will be completed in phases over three years and will include engagement with local stakeholders, public meetings, technical analysis, and final strategic recommendations. 

“As transit agencies continue to evolve, we must think differently about how we leverage public assets to create lasting impact,” Shaw added. “This effort positions BJCTA to continue delivering mobility solutions while strengthening Birmingham’s economic and community landscape.” 

Additional information about the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fiscal Years 2024–2026 Innovative Finance and Asset Concession (IFAC) Grant Program award selections is available below: 

• Recipient List: FY24-26 IFAC Award List.pdf. 
• U.S. DOT Announcement: Trump’s Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Invests $47 Million to Get America Building Again with Public-Private Partnership Engagement | US Department of Transportation 

The post BJCTA Selected to Receive $1 Million Through U.S. DOT’s Innovative Finance and Asset Concession (IFAC) Grant Program  appeared first on MAX Transit.

The post MAX On-Demand Expands Services to Irondale Starting July 1 appeared first on MAX Transit.

MAX On-Demand is a shared ride, app-based transit service designed to provide convenient transportation within designated zones while connecting riders to essential destinations and the broader MAX Transit network.

In addition to the Downtown zone’s Saturday launch, the following MAX On-Demand zones will continue operating with existing Saturday service hours:

• Mountain Brook Zone: 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

• East & Airport Zones: 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

• North Birmingham Zone: 5:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The return of downtown Saturday service is part of MAX Transit’s continued commitment to improving accessibility, expanding mobility options, and meeting the evolving transportation needs of the community.

“Transportation needs do not stop at the end of the workweek,” said Charlotte Shaw, Executive Director/CEO of MAX Transit. “The return of the Saturday downtown MAX On-Demand service helps create greater access to jobs, shopping, appointments, entertainment, and other important weekend destinations for our riders. We are committed to building a transit system that offers flexibility, convenience, and connectivity for the communities we serve.”

Riders can book trips directly through the MAX Connect mobile app, available for download on Apple and Android devices or call customer service at (205) 521-0101. The app allows users to schedule rides, track vehicles in real time, and access additional MAX Transit services all in one place.

Service Details:
• Service: MAX On-Demand Downtown Zone
• Effective Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
• Operating Hours: Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Booking Method: MAX Connect mobile app or call customer service at 205.521.0101

For more information about MAX On-Demand service zones, booking instructions, and transit services, visit MAXTransit.org or download the MAX Connect app.

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Passengers can utilize fixed-route buses, the Magic City Connector, or the Birmingham Xpress to reach their designated polling places without any fare. This initiative aims to eliminate transportation barriers and encourage civic engagement among residents of Birmingham and Jefferson County.

“We know that reliable transportation plays an important role in civic participation,” said Amanda Hare, Director of Marketing & Communications at MAX Transit. “By offering complimentary rides on Election Day once again, we are helping ensure that residents across our community have accessible transportation options as they head to the polls to make their voices heard.”

For more information about routes and schedules, please visit the BJCTA website at maxtransit.org or contact their customer service at 205.521.0101.

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“Amanda brings a rare combination of strategic insight and storytelling excellence,” said Charlotte Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of BJCTA. “Her ability to shape narratives, lead high-impact campaigns, and align communications with our long-term vision has been key to elevating the MAX Transit brand and strengthening our connection to the community.”

As Director of Marketing & Communications, Hare will oversee brand strategy, public relations, digital engagement, community partnerships, crisis communications, and strategic marketing initiatives that support MAX Transit’s service expansion, infrastructure development, and rider experience improvements.

“I’m honored to continue serving MAX Transit in this expanded capacity,” said Hare. “Public transportation is about connection, to opportunity, to community, and to economic growth. I look forward to building on the strong foundation we’ve created as we move Transit on the Grow into the next phase.”

Hare brings over twelve years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, and brand development. She is actively engaged in industry leadership initiatives and community partnerships that position MAX Transit as a forward-thinking, rider-centered transit authority.

For more information about MAX Transit, visit www.maxtransit.org.

The post BJCTA Announces Promotion of Amanda Hare to Director of Marketing & Communications appeared first on MAX Transit.

MEDIA ADVISORY

BJCTA Announces Appointment of New Board of Directors Officers

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. —The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of new officers to its Board of Directors, marking a continued commitment to strong governance, strategic leadership, and enhanced public transit service across Jefferson County.

The newly appointed board members represent the Cities of Birmingham, Homewood, and Hoover and bring diverse expertise in public service, policy, and community leadership.

The newly appointed officers include:

• Chair: Willie S. Davis III, Appointed by the City of Birmingham
• Vice Chair: Patricia Todd, Appointed by the City of Birmingham
• Secretary: Michelle Inman, Appointed by the City of Birmingham

These leadership roles are instrumental in guiding the Board’s oversight of BJCTA’s operations, policies, and long-term vision, ensuring that the Authority continues to deliver safe, reliable, and innovative transportation solutions for the community.

“Strong board leadership is essential to advancing our mission and delivering meaningful impact across the communities we serve.” said Executive Director & CEO, Charlotte Shaw. “I am confident that this group of officers will help guide BJCTA into its next phase of innovation, growth, and enhanced service for our riders.”

BJCTA MAX Transit’s Board of Directors plays a critical role in governance, policy oversight, and strategic direction, ensuring the Authority remains responsive to the evolving transportation needs of the Birmingham metropolitan area.

The Authority looks forward to the leadership and insight these board members will provide as BJCTA advances initiatives focused on service reliability, innovation, and rider experience.

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The post 01/22/2026: BJCTA Monitoring Inclement Weather Conditions appeared first on MAX Transit.

MAX On-Demand operates during designated hours in Mountain Brook. Check our scheduling page for current service hours and holiday adjustments.

How much does it cost to ride?

The service is designed to be cost efficient. Pricing is displayed when you book your ride so you always know the fare before confirming.

Who can use MAX On-Demand?

Anyone traveling within the Mountain Brook service area can use MAX On-Demand, including residents, commuters, students, seniors, and visitors.

Is the service accessible?

Yes. MAX On-Demand vehicles include accessible options for riders with mobility needs. Please indicate any accessibility requirements when booking.

How far in advance can I schedule a ride?

Riders can book same day trips or schedule in advance depending on availability. Booking early is recommended during peak times.

What if I need to cancel my ride?

You can cancel your ride through the booking platform or app. Please cancel as soon as you know your plans have changed to free up the vehicle for other riders.

Ready to Ride?

MAX On-Demand makes moving around Mountain Brook simple, safe, and convenient. Whether you are heading to an appointment, meeting friends, running errands, or exploring town, we are here to help you get there with ease.

Start your ride today:

• Book a trip
• View service hours
• Explore the Mountain Brook service zone

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