NTI Offers Training on Understanding H1N1 Risks in the Transportation Sector
This course was developed with funding from the United States Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate through the National Transportation Security Center of Excellence to help transit systems better prepare their operations and employees for preventing and managing H1N1 exposure and is being distributed through a collaborate effort with NTI.
Agencies interested in hosting a regional session should complete this attached form and email it to Fran Conti at fconti@rutgers.edu or fax the form to 732.932.1707.
Host agencies are requested to provide a training room with a minimum capacity of 50 and audio/visual equipment (screen, data projector and two flipcharts) and are allotted a minimum ten seats in the course. Agencies interested in hosting a session in the first quarter of 2010 should submit their Regional Train-the-Trainer Host Form Friday, December 11th.
Oregon man wins APTA "Dump the Pump" video contest
The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) announced the winners of its “Dump the Pump” transit rider-generated online video contest. Participants were asked to create a video that demonstrated why they were “dumping the pump” in favor of using public transportation.
You can view the videos here.
NTSB makes recommendation regarding pre-trip inspections
NTSB made the following recommendation to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators:
Revise the model Commercial Driver’s License Manual to stipulate that tire pressure be checked with a tire pressure gauge during pretrip inspections, vehicle inspections, and roadside inspections of motor vehicles. (H-09-27)
Click here for recommendation letter.
Feedback on FTA's State DOT Orientation Seminars
FTA believes it’s important that the industry be aware of how Bus Program initiatives are being received by the community. We are pleased to report that we have received very positive feedback from State DOT Orientation Seminar participants. This can be found here.
US DOT Blog Reports on Santa Rosa CityBus Recovery Act Grant
In July, Santa Rosa CityBus received a Recovery Act grant of $4.2 million for paratransit services, solar bus shelters and eligible operating assistance. For more, click here.
Virginia DRPT Partners with FTA
On October 22nd, FTA’s Bus Safety and Security team co-hosted an Orientation Seminar with the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) in Culpeper, VA at the Virginia Regional Transportation (VRT) offices. Representatives from 25 VA bus transit systems attended the seminar to learn about FTA’s Roadmap to Excellence. Participants received training on how to assess their own agencies and develop action plans to improve safety, security and emergency preparedness. In addition, participants were given a tour of FTA’s new Resource Website and educated on how the website can be used as a tool to support their efforts.
Mr. Ken Pollock, Rural Transit Program Specialist for the VA Dept. of Rail and Public Transportation, shares his views on FTA’s Orientation Seminar.
Response to FTA On-Site Reviews
Mary Blood, Administrative Manager, Virginia Regional Transit, talks about the value of on-site reviews.
Accident-free drivers honored
From the Beloit Daily News
Phil VanLandingham and Al Melton have covered a lot of miles as bus drivers in Beloit, all of them accident-free.
The two Beloit bus drivers will be honored tonight at the Beloit City Council meeting for their years of service to the Beloit Transit System and for their safe driving.
VanLandingham and Melton will be recognized for 20 years of accident-free bus driving. They are to be presented with the Transit Mutual Insurance (TMI) Bus Drivers Award.
It is hoped the two will have many miles ahead of them of accident free driving in Beloit.