Usually when people vote on ballot measures about transit, the transit agency and supporters want the measure to pass.

Not in Phoenix in 2019.

That ballot measure would have literally derailed bringing light rail--any rail--to Phoenix forever. Then Valley Metro CEO Scott Smith rallied support throughout Maricopa County and discovered there was overwhelming support for transit and light rail. So much support that the ballot measure was defeated by a landslide.

But we start this episode with a somber anniversary, 60 years ago today John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. In a special segment, Paul and our guest Scott Smith reflect on JFK's legacy and call to service.

In our feature interview, Paul Comfort talks with the former CEO of Valley Metro (https://www.valleymetro.org/) Scott Smith about that ballot measure, as well as his time as Mayor of Mesa, AZ, President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, and his run for Governor of Arizona.

Paul and Scott talk about the massive investment in light rail in Phoenix and how it ties into the rest of the transit system run by Valley Metro. Scott gives his vision for what LRT means to communities and how rising costs hamper transit projects across North America.

Next week we stay in Phoenix with an interview with the current CEO of Valley Metro, Jessica Mefford-Miller to bring us up to speed on the LRT project and a unique car-free community outside Tempe, AZ.

We wrap this episode with Elea Carey and our editor Tris Hussey talking about practical tips for agencies facing tough ballot measures in the future.

If you have a question or comment you can email us at [email protected]

00:00 Introduction from host and producer Paul Comfort

00:54 Remembering JFK and the Call to Public Service

01:24 Reflecting on the legacy of John F. Kennedy and the call to public service

05:19 Interview with Scott Smith, former CEO of Valley Metro in Phoenix, AZ

05:19 Scott Smith's Journey into Public Service

08:37 The Challenges and Triumphs of Building Light Rail in Phoenix

13:34 The Referendum Battle and the Future of Light Rail

22:05 Reflections on the Transit Industry and Future Perspectives

26:02 Marketing minute with Elea Carey and Transit Unplugged Editor, Tris Hussey

30:42 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged