On today's special edition of Transit Unplugged. We want it to honor the memory of Jeff Parker, CEO of MARTA in Atlanta, after his recent tragic death. He was a strong leader for his city and our industry, and will be sorely missed. Original show notes from February, 2020:

“While we have to think about the future, we also have to think about the here and now and making sure that we’re improving the customer experience.”

Atlanta and the surrounding area is the third fastest-growing region in the U.S. That means more people and more traffic, so public transit is essential to help boost the economic vitality and development of the region along with reducing congestion.

Jeffrey Parker, GM and CEO of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), joins Transit Unplugged to talk about the present and future for the agency. Parker discusses the importance of MARTA becoming a more customer-centric organization – improving the reliability of the bus service, implementing new bus stops, and renovating rail stations are just part of this larger picture. Additionally, he highlights MARTA’s plans for new bus rapid transit and light rail services, and how it is essential to still focus on state of good repair while expanding service.

If you want to know more about MARTA, check out their website. 

If you are having thoughts of suicide, there are people to listen and help. Here are just a few of the resources in the U.S. and Canada you can reach out to. Call a friend, send a text, send a message, but whatever you do, just reach out. You're not alone. There are people out there ready to help you.

Canada Suicide Prevention Service, part of Crisis Services Canada.

If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, the Canada Suicide Prevention Service is available 24/7 for voice and 4pm to 12am ET for text.

Call 1-833-456-4566 for help in English. In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Or text 45645.

U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

NATIONAL: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call 1-800-273-8255.

TEXT: Crisis Text Line is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is free, available 24/7, and confidential.