APTA names Sun Metro top transit system

El Paso, TX-based Sun Metro has been named the most Outstanding Public Transit System of the Year for all the agencies in North America by the American Public Transportation Association. Sun Metro officials will be presented with the award during a ceremony on June 30. To celebrate, Sun Metro will offer free rides within the city limits on that day.

The award is based on quantifiable data, as well as, qualitative performance as it relates to Sun Metro’s safety record, operating procedures, customer service, financial management, sustainable practices, workforce development, marketing, technological applications and community involvement during 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Sun Metro, which has been managed by First Transit since 2006, won the title in the medium-size category of transit systems providing between four million and 20 million rides annually.

“Being acknowledged by our peers is a huge honor,” said Sun Metro Director Jay Banasiak. “This recognition is an awesome tribute to the tireless efforts of our employees who have continuously worked to improve and make Sun Metro all that it can be. We want thank our passenger for their unending support which makes this award even more meaningful. Lastly, we want to thank our Mass Transit Department Board and City Manager who created a vision and propelled us to become one of the best transit agencies in North America.”

For more, visit www.elpasotexas.gov/sunmetro.