South Dakota Department of Transportation's Division of Air, Rail and Transit Wins National Recognition

(Philadelphia)  At its annual awards banquet in Philadelphia, PA., on May 20, 2003, the Community Transportation Association of America honored the South Dakota Department of Transportation's Division of Air, Rail and Transit with its 2003 State Leadership Award.  The national award honors a state agency that has significantly impacted its citizens with outstanding, innovative leadership in public community transportation.

Last year, the South Dakota DOT's Division of Air, Rail and Transit worked with the governor to replace every community transportation vehicle in the state in 175 communities.  The agency also helped invest in public and community transportation across the state by working with operators and local governments to build 17 new bus stations and facilities.

"Our members in this state worked hard to build this kind of service that all of us would be proud to be a part of.  Their tireless efforts resulted in a very good governor thinking that community transportation was part of his state's solution to many of the challenges," said Roland Mross of the Community Transporation Board of Directors at the gala event.  "Tonight we honor this state agency that did the work for that governor, closing the circle that started with our members who provide public and community transportation in that state."

The State Leadership Award was selected by the awards committee of the Community Transportation Association of America, a national nonprofit organization of 3,500 individuals and organizations dedicated to providing mobility for all Americans.  For more information, contact Scott Bogren of the association at (202) 661-0204.