Sep 1, 2014
CLEVELAND -- Joe Calabrese, CEO and General Manager of the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA), was named one of the most influential people of the decade (2004-2014) for public transit in the September-October issue of Metro Magazine. The magazine cited his accomplishments in many areas, including the Downtown trolleys and the HealthLine, which is regarded as the top BRT system in North America.
Accomplishments
Calabrese launched the Ride Happy or Ride Free customer service pledge and guarantee program and established a Downtown trolley network to transport workers, visitors and residents between major Downtown venues with a subsidized fare that is Free with a Smile.
He also oversaw the funding, construction and operation of the HealtLine BRT system, which was recognized as the best BRT system in North America by the Institute for Transportation & Development Policy. Under Calabrese’s leadership, the HealthLine delivered more than $6.3 billion in economic development along the Euclid Corridor -- a staggering $114 gained for every dollar spent on creating and launching the new service in 2008.
Calabrese is among the talented, bold people who have made a lasting impact on public transportation and been an inspiration to others, writes the magazine.
Background
Calabrese came to Greater Cleveland as RTA's CEO/General Manager in 2000. He is the longest-serving General Manager in the history of RTA, as well as the longest-serving General Manager of any multi-modal transit system in the United States.
He has increased RTA’s customer base and RTA’s integral role in the mobility and economic development of the region.
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