LIVE from the American Public Transportation Association's TRANSform conference, host Paul Comfort moderates a live panel on one of the most mission-critical—but often overlooked—parts of the transit ecosystem: paratransit. Presented in partnership with UZURV – The Adaptive Transportation Network Company (TNC), this candid and high-energy conversation features leaders from across the country who are redefining what’s possible when innovation meets accessibility. Guests: Mark Aesch, CEO, TransPro Consulting Eileen Collins Turvey, Director of Paratransit, TriMet (Portland, OR)Kevin Hernandez, Chief Operating Officer, GRTC (Richmond, VA) Ned Freeman, CEO, UZURV Together, they discuss: Why paratransit isn’t just an “unfunded mandate”—it’s a cornerstone of transit’s value to the communityHow performance-based models and TNC partnerships are helping agencies cut costs and boost rider satisfaction New data showing paratransit users are the most satisfied transit customers in America What success looks like when we prioritize dignity, flexibility, and equity 📍 "Do you know who the most happy transit customers in America are? Paratransit customers. They're happier than fixed route bus or BRT or Rail..” – Mark Aesch 🧭 “The ADA is the floor, not the ceiling. It's minimum compliance. And if that's what you're seeking, I'm not gonna tell you how to run your program.” – Eileen Collins Turvey 🚍 “ It's time to be innovative. We can't continue doing the same things we've been doing for 70 years." – Kevin Hernandez 💡 Whether you're running a transit system, shaping policy, or simply believe in building cities that work for everyone—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. In this Super September episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort heads to Chicago to sit down with Nora Leerhsen, Acting President of the Chicago Transit Authority—America’s second-largest public transit system. With more than 11,000 employees, a million daily riders, and an expanding footprint, the CTA plays a massive role in the life of the Windy City—and Nora is at the helm during a pivotal time. A lawyer and former educator who rose through the ranks from compliance officer to chief of staff and now acting president, Nora shares her deep belief in transit's power to uplift cities and people alike. They discuss: How CTA is hitting post-pandemic ridership highs during special events like Lollapalooza The launch of the Frequent Network, boosting service on 20 core bus routes Nora’s unique path to leadership—and why a legal background helps navigate complexity CTA's all-hands approach to safety, from targeted police missions to new rider engagement programs The long-awaited Red Line Extension, bringing rail access to underserved South Side communities How partnerships with Metra, Pace, and RTA are shaping a more unified regional system And yes—there’s even a nod to Ferris Bueller and the iconic rumble of the L. 📍 “Transit is unmatched in the impact it can have on a city and on its trajectory,” says Nora. Tune in for a candid, energizing conversation about the past, present, and future of Chicago’s transit backbone. ✅ Credits Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people. Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort Executive Producer — Julie Gates Recorded, Produced and Mixed by — Chris O’Keeffe Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin Special thanks to: Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova Sound Design — Patrick...
