On this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Ginny Smith, Executive Director of the Cape Girardeau County Transit Authority. Ginny shares how rural transit systems provide essential access to jobs, healthcare, education, and independence for the people they serve. From vanpools that connect workers to regional employers, to a new university transit partnership, to technology investments that improve safety and rider experience, Cape Girardeau is a powerful example of how small systems innovate with limited resources.

In This Conversation, You’ll Learn:

• Why transit in rural communities is truly a lifeline, especially for seniors and workers without vehicles
• How Cape Girardeau runs vanpool routes to large employers across county lines to connect people with stable jobs
• The impact of taking over Southeast Missouri State University’s transit service and launching live bus tracking for students and residents
• How partnerships like FlixBus/Greyhound restore regional travel access to St. Louis and beyond
• How the system is using AI-based safety and vehicle monitoring tools to support operators and prevent breakdowns
• The financial reality of rural transit funding — and the creative strategies needed when state dollars are cut

CREDITS

• Host & Producer: Paul Comfort
• Executive Producer: Julie Gates
• Producer: Chris O’Keeffe
• Editor: Patrick Emile
• Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin
• Consultants: Dan Misener & Jonas Woost (Bumper)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.