BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), operator of MAX Transit, is proud to announce it has received two national awards from the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) during the organization’s 55th National Meeting & Training Conference in Washington, D.C.

The awards were presented on July 28, 2026, during COMTO’s annual Industry Awards Ceremony, which recognizes outstanding leadership, innovation, and excellence across the transportation industry.

BJCTA was honored with:

• The 2026 Industry Innovation Award which recognizes an individual, organization, city, or region that has introduced measurable innovations to improve mobility, public safety, and reliable transportation service through technology or other innovative approaches.
• The Thomas G. Neusom Founders’ Leadership Award is COMTO’s highest honor. It recognizes transportation executives and policymakers who have provided outstanding leadership, supported the development of transportation professionals, and demonstrated continued service to COMTO and its mission.

“Receiving national recognition from COMTO is an incredible honor for our organization,” said Charlotte Shaw, CEO of BJCTA. “These awards reflect the dedication of our employees, the strength of our partnerships, and our commitment to providing innovative, accessible, and customer-focused transportation solutions throughout Jefferson County. We are proud to be recognized among transportation leaders from across the country.”

The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) is one of North America’s leading organizations dedicated to advancing opportunities and excellence in the transportation industry. Its annual Industry Awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose work has made a significant impact across all modes of transportation.

The recognition comes during a year of continued innovation for BJCTA, including the expansion of MAX On-Demand service into the communities of Homewood, Irondale, and Mountain Brook, the launch of the new MAX Connect mobile app, and ongoing investments in improving customer experience and expanding mobility options throughout the region.

“This recognition belongs to our entire team,” Shaw added. “Every employee plays a role in moving our mission forward, and these awards reinforce that the work happening at BJCTA is making an impact not only locally, but nationally.”

Additional details regarding the specific award categories will be shared following COMTO’s official publication of the 2026 Industry Award recipients.

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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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Beginning July 1, MAX Transit is launching MAX On-Demand in Irondale and Homewood—a flexible, app-based transportation service designed to give residents a convenient new way to travel throughout the community.

This pilot program is proudly funded by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, whose investment is helping expand access to transportation and connect more people to opportunity throughout the Irondale community.

What is MAX On-Demand?

Unlike a traditional fixed bus route, MAX On-Demand allows riders to request trips when they need them through the MAX Connect mobile app.

Simply download the app, request a ride, and a MAX On-Demand vehicle will pick you up and take you to destinations within the Irondale and Homewood service zones.

Where can you go?

MAX On-Demand connects riders to many of the places residents visit most, including:

• Walmart Supercenter
• Publix
• Downtown Irondale
• Irondale Public Library
• Ruffner Mountain
• Amazon
• FedEx Ground
• Woodlawn Transit Center
• Senior Center
• Local businesses and more

Whether you’re heading to work, grocery shopping, meeting friends, or spending the afternoon outdoors, MAX On-Demand is designed to make those trips easier.

Designed for everyday life

The new service offers convenient transportation for:

• Daily commuters
• Warehouse and shift workers
• Seniors
• Families
• Students
• Visitors
• Anyone looking for an easy way to travel around Irondale

MAX On-Demand also strengthens connections to the broader MAX Transit network through Woodlawn Transit Center, making it easier to continue your trip across the Birmingham region.

Explore more without the parking hassle

One unique feature of the Irondale zone is access to Ruffner Mountain, giving riders an easy way to enjoy one of the area’s premier outdoor destinations without worrying about parking.

Whether you’re planning a weekend hike, meeting friends, or simply looking to spend time outside, nature is now just a ride away.

Getting started is easy

Ready to ride?

1. Download the MAX Connect app.
2. Create your account.
3. Enter promo code IRONDALE to redeem your promotional ride offer. For Homewood riders enter promo code 2FREEHOMEWOOD.
4. Request your first trip.

A partnership focused on mobility

MAX Transit, the Cities of Irondale and Homewood, and the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham share a commitment to expanding transportation options that improve quality of life, strengthen workforce access, and better connect residents to the places they need to go.

By investing in innovative mobility solutions like MAX On-Demand, this partnership is helping make transportation more accessible while supporting the continued growth of the Irondale community.

A new way to connect Irondale and Homewood

MAX On-Demand is about more than transportation—it’s about improving access to jobs, shopping, recreation, healthcare, education, and community resources.

From your morning commute to your weekend adventure, MAX On-Demand is ready when you are.

To learn more about MAX On-Demand and download the MAX Connect app, visit maxtransit.org.

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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 

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The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), doing business as MAX Transit, invites community members, stakeholders, and partners to join us on June 25 as we celebrate the groundbreaking of our new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling station in Forestdale.

This milestone event marks the beginning of a transformative project that will help shape the future of public transportation in Birmingham and Jefferson County. Supported by a $13.6 million Low or No Emission and Bus and Bus Facilities Grant, the new facility represents a significant investment in cleaner energy, safer operations, and long-term sustainability for our region.

Designed to support modern transit operations and an evolving fleet, the facility will strengthen MAX Transit’s ability to provide reliable service while reducing environmental impact and preparing for future transportation technologies.

Event Details

CNG Groundbreaking Ceremony

Theme: Driving Toward a Greener Future

Date: June 25, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Location: 973 Forestdale Blvd.

Guests will hear remarks from community leaders and project partners before participating in the ceremonial groundbreaking.

This investment is about more than infrastructure. It is about creating a stronger, more sustainable transit system that connects people to opportunities while supporting the continued growth of our region.

We hope you will join us as we celebrate this exciting milestone and take the next step toward a cleaner, greener future for Birmingham and Jefferson County.

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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.

The post MAX Transit Announces Expanded Saturday Service for MAX On-Demand Beginning June 6 appeared first on MAX Transit.

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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MAX Transit is pleased to announce several major transit improvements coming to North Birmingham in Birmingham, all designed to make service more frequent, more connected and easier to use.

Here’s what’s new:

NEW: Route 24 Fairmont–Collegeville
Route 24 will replace Routes 23 and 40, creating a more streamlined and efficient connection between Fairmont and Collegeville. This means simpler service and more direct trips for riders.

Expanded Service to North Birmingham Library
The Magic City Connector will now serve the North Birmingham Library, improving access to an important community resource.

More Frequent Service at North Birmingham Shopping Center
Riders traveling to and from the North Birmingham Shopping Center will now see service every 15 minutes, thanks to combined coverage from Route 24 and Route 90 (Magic City Connector). Less waiting, more convenience.

NEW: Microtransit Zone for Hooper City & Harriman Homes
A new microtransit zone will provide flexible, on-demand service in Hooper City and Harriman Homes—expanding access and offering more options where traditional routes may be limited.

These updates represent a continued investment in better transit for North Birmingham, focused on reliability, accessibility and meeting the needs of the community.

The post MAX Transit Makes Changes to North Birmingham Routes Beginning May 18 appeared first on MAX Transit.

Effective May 18, 2026

Beginning May 18, 2026, MAX On Demand (microtransit) will provide transportation for customers traveling to and from the North Birmingham Shopping Center transfer location. From this transfer point, customers can connect to:

1. Route 24C
2. Route 24F
3. Magic City Connector

Customers in the following areas will use MAX On-Demand service to connect to the fixed route system:

1. North Birmingham
2. Hooper City
3. Harriman Park

Important Service Update

Please note that fixed route bus service will no longer operate directly in the Harriman Park and Hooper City areas after the May 2026 service changes. Customers traveling to and from these areas must use MAX On-Demand service to connect to the transfer location.

How to Book Your Ride

Customers are encouraged to:

1. Book their ride at least 30 minutes before they need to arrive at the North Birmingham Shopping Center transfer location when traveling from home.
2. Book their return ride as they approach the transfer location when traveling from Central Station or other destinations.

To schedule a ride, customers can:

1. Use the MAX On-Demand app
2. Call: 205.521.0101

Fare Information

Trips between a customer’s home and the North Birmingham Shopping Center transfer location are FREE when scheduled by phone through Customer Service.

Any additional MAX On-Demand trips outside of the transfer connection service will continue at the standard fare:

1. $1.50 per rider
2. $0.75 for each additional passenger

Why These Changes Are Being Made

These service changes are designed to:

1. Improve connections between neighborhoods and key transit routes
2. Provide more reliable and efficient transportation service
3. Reduce wait times and improve overall service efficiency
4. Help ensure customers are not paying twice to reach destinations that were previously accessible with a single fare before the May 2026 service changes

For additional information, please visit maxtransit.org or contact Customer Service.

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