The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) is proud to announce that it has received Gold Level recognition through the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Sustainability Commitment. Earlier this year, TheRide formalized its Sustainability Policy and Plan, setting goals to enhance the sustainability of transit services and to the greater community. TheRide is one of just 13 transit agencies in North America to receive APTA’s Gold Level recognition.
“We’re proud to receive APTA’s prestigious Gold Level recognition for these efforts, and thank the riders who, by riding with us, are doing their part to promote a more sustainable community. TheRide is committed to operating in a way that serves the growing needs of the community, and doing so in a way that helps reduce energy, water, and waste,” said TheRide CEO Matt Carpenter.
During the last five years, TheRide’s focused efforts have reduced its main facility’s water usage by 43 percent and electricity usage by 18 percent. On May 1, 2016, TheRide rolled out the largest portion of a 40 percent increase in service approved by voters in May, 2014. To date, TheRide has invested in a fleet that includes nearly 60 percent clean diesel hybrid-electric buses, eco-conscious facilities, and extensive recycling.
“Congratulations to TheRide for its significant work over the past five years in making the organization more sustainable,” said American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Acting President and CEO Richard A. White. “In recognition of its many accomplishments, APTA is awarding TheRide Gold Level status in our Sustainability Commitment Program. Achieving Gold Level is a high honor and TheRide is one of only 13 organizations in North America to have reached this level of recognition.”
The APTA Sustainability Commitment Program was started in 2009 as a way for public transit agencies to voluntarily commit to continuous improvements in environmental, social, and economic sustainability. More than 130 public transit agencies and businesses have signed on as signatories. TheRide’s Sustainability Plan and Policy, and more information of about TheRide’s sustainability initiative, are available online at: bit.ly/SustainableRide.