Along The Lines

In this episode, we hear from Dan Baker, CTDOT's Transportation Supervising Planner, who provides updates on the 26 actions from the 2023 Customer Experience Action Plan and introduces three new initiatives to improve bus and rail services. Michael Helta, Maryland Transit's Chief Customer Experience Officer, also joins us and shares how his agency enhances the rider experience. Tune in for valuable insights into public transit innovation and customer-focused improvements.

This episode explores workforce development's vital role in strengthening regional economies by focusing on people rather than individual employers.

Join us for a discussion with Carita Ducre from the American Public Transportation Association as we explore the connection between public transportation and its contribution to a robust economy and employment. We also examine how workforce development can improve public transit systems through employee training, development opportunities, and more.

Connecticut's annual Stand Down event, happening Sept. 20th, provides essential services for veterans, National Guard members, Reserve members, and their families. This one-stop resource event offers support from state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and veteran organizations. Retired Brigadier General Ron Welch, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, and Blake Roberts, CTDOT Transportation Planner, join us to discuss how Stand Down supports those who have served our nation.

In this episode, we examine the Connecticut Department of Transportation's final report of the Greater Hartford Mobility Study. This community-driven initiative was developed to reimagine and reconnect neighborhoods for enhanced mobility throughout Greater Hartford. 

Join us as we speak with Kim Lesay, Bureau Chief of Policy and Planning, and Kevin Burnham, Transportation Supervising Engineer at CTDOT, to explore this visionary plan for creating a vibrant, sustainable, and multimodal transportation network.

In this episode, we dive into the critical role of social equity in shaping communities where everyone can thrive and participate. Discover how the CTDOT is committed to creating vibrant communities with cleaner environments, affordable housing, reliable public transportation, and more.

Tune in to learn how social equity fosters a more inclusive and sustainable future. Our special guest, Taiwo Jaiyeoba, National Director of Bus Rapid Transit at Lochner Engineering, shares his valuable insights on this topic.

Join us in celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry's vessel, the Selden III. We will explore the ferry’s rich history and discuss how it continues to connect communities across the Connecticut River. 

Special guests Captain John F. Kennedy, ferry captain from the CTDOT, and Lynn Wilkinson, President and Communications Chair from Friends of Gillette Castle State Park, will share their insights on the history and ongoing community impact of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry.

It’s time for the Drive Less CT Climate Challenge, kicking off on Earth Day, April 22nd. Since 2018, this initiative, led by CTDOT in collaboration with CTrides, has seen impressive results in raising awareness and promoting sustainable transportation. Tune in to discover more about the challenge, its environmental benefits, and how to participate with our guests, Russell McDermott from CTrides and Liam Cawley from the CT Science Center.

Embark on a trip into the future of public transportation with Along the Lines! Host Ben Limmer takes you on a captivating journey into the world of microtransit, joined by special guests Mark Goodale from the Connecticut Department of Transportation and Matt Pentz from Norwalk Transit District. Tune in to hear about Connecticut’s pioneering pilot project and discover the benefits of microtransit and its transformative potential in shaping the future of public transportation.

The CT Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is embarking on an ambitious initiative to elevate bus services across the state. Tune into the latest episode of Along the Lines as host Ben Limmer discusses Connecticut's visionary plan with guests Lisa Rivers from CTDOT and Michael Carroll of Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT).

Backed by substantial investments from Governor Lamont and the State Legislature, this plan addresses the pressing need for expanded bus service. Tune in for insights and updates.

In this episode of Along the Lines, host Ben Limmer and guests Sharon Greene and Gary Pescosolido delve into the funding sources, the challenges faced, and the importance of modernizing public transport infrastructure. This informative discussion sheds light on the process of funding public transportation initiatives from a state and national level.