Curious about how transit programs can transform communities? Discover how SARTA's initiatives have empowered countless individuals to navigate public transportation with confidence. On this episode of the Next Stop podcast, we, Latrice Virola and Nina Phillips, share the inspiring journey of our outreach and travel training program that started in 2010. Initially crafted to support paratransit users, this program quickly evolved to embrace a broader audience, earning accolades for its innovative approach. We reveal how our tailored sessions, incorporating tools like Pinpoint and Google Transit, have equipped community members with essential skills, making public transit more accessible and user-friendly for everyone.

But that's not all. We also dive into the vibrant world of SARTA's community outreach, showcasing events like Light Up Downtown and Trunk or Treats where our beloved trolley, Woody, takes center stage. By participating in senior fairs and collaborating with organizations like Safe Communities, we ensure that seniors and individuals with disabilities are well-informed and empowered to maintain their independence. Whether it's engaging at Kids Fest or providing essential transportation information across Stark County, our commitment to supporting diverse age groups shines through. Join us as we celebrate the power of community connection and the vital role public transit plays in enhancing lives.

Discover the rich history and impactful work of the Veterans Service Commission of Stark County as we sit down with De Ann Williams and Deb Ogden. With roots tracing back to 1886, they take us through the organization's journey of unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and their families. You'll gain valuable insights into their comprehensive assistance programs that offer everything from school supplies and clothing to dental care, all governed by the Ohio Revised Code, Title 59. Learn how they ensure that veterans, surviving spouses, and dependent children receive vital resources and guidance, with services tailored to meet the unique needs of Stark County.

In another fascinating segment, we explore the evolution of transportation services for veterans. Since 2013, a transformative partnership with SARTA has been pivotal in providing medical transport to facilities like Wade Park VA Medical Center. Despite challenges like resource constraints and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization has adapted its services, focusing efforts to meet changing needs and continuing to support veterans with innovative solutions. Tune in to understand the profound influence of these services on veterans' lives and how the Veterans Service Commission continues to uphold its mission.

Unlock the future of public transportation with us as we preview our new season of Next Stop while also reflecting on the great guests and topics from Season 1. You'll gain insights into how our innovative approach to transportation drives a new standard for sustainability in the industry. Join us in celebrating the foresight of our CEO, Kirt Conrad, and our achievement in becoming one of the rare hydrogen hubs in the nation. We also shine a light on the precision planning behind our fixed route services, ensuring seamless access to essential locations such as grocery stores and hospitals, as well as our invaluable Community Coach and ADA services that serve seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Anticipation builds as we tease what's next on the Next Stop podcast, promising a lineup of content that's both enlightening and inspiring. We invite you to stay tuned for stories that delve into SARTA's dynamic community and the exciting developments within our transit system. By subscribing and connecting with us on social media, you'll be at the forefront of all things transit, embracing new beginnings with each episode. Together, we'll continue to discover, learn, and celebrate the evolving landscape of public transportation.

What if the future could already be at your doorstep, or rather, your bus stop? The team at SARTA Next Stop is thrilled to bring you an episode that peels back the curtain on the future of transit. Our guest, the insightful Kirt Conrad, joins us for this thought-provoking discussion as we untangle the potentials of a streetcar system and micro-transit services for SARTA. We also entertain the possibility of Sunday services and real-time scheduling for paratransit services, making transportation a breeze for everyone, including our differently abled friends.

Travel with us, metaphorically, as we ride the wave of innovation in the world of low emissions vehicles. We share our adventures in sourcing better solutions for over-the-road coaches, with a special focus on wheelchair accessibility. Our journey leads us to the exciting discovery of zero emissions, electric coaches equipped with wheelchair ramps and tie-down locations. Our ambition soars to the skies with the prospect of transitioning to a zero-emission fleet. Although the scarcity of suitable vehicles is a bump on the road, our determination to make this dream a reality is unyielding.

Be prepared to pack your bags as we venture out to Canton, Ohio. Picture this- a streetcar or train seamlessly connecting the airport, Hall of Fame Village, and downtown Canton. We share news of a parking and access study underway to identify potential spots for this transportation system. We're also thrilled to discuss hydrogen-powered trains as a zero-emission alternative. This episode ends on a hopeful note as we delve into the community's initiatives to reduce emissions, emphasizing the steps being taken for a greener and sustainable future. Tune in to this enlightening journey through the future of transit.

Ever wondered how a bustling transportation company keeps its buses and facilities at peak performance? Well, prepare to pull back the curtain and discover the intricate and often overlooked world of maintenance with our special guest, Keith Zachary, SARTA's maintenance supervisor. Keith, who is instrumental in the upkeep of the company’s buildings, grounds, and fleet of vehicles, shares his valuable insights about preventive maintenance, major repairs, and the science of scheduling.

This episode goes beyond the usual bus routes and stopovers, burrowing deep into SARTA's commendable vehicle maintenance and organizational process. Imagine managing over 100 buses that come in each night needing fueling, cleaning, and repairs - it's no small task! Yet, Keith and his team make it look easy. Their secret? A combination of well-trained technicians, a unique peer-to-peer training system, and a well-orchestrated maintenance strategy. This conversation will leave you impressed with the remarkable dedication and tireless effort that ensures SARTA's buses are always ready for the next journey. So, buckle up and join us for an enlightening ride into the heart of SARTA’s operations.

Ever wonder how transit operations function smoothly even under unexpected situations such as bus breakdowns or bad weather conditions? Curious about the role of dispatch services, particularly in coordinating with different teams and strategizing to ensure passenger safety and punctuality? Join us as we unravel the complexities of bus operations with none other than Delano Means, a seasoned dispatch supervisor. Delano gives us a unique behind-the-scenes look at the intriguing dynamics of the dispatch team in maintaining seamless transit operations.

Get exclusive insights into the fascinating technology that tracks and updates bus routes in real-time, ensuring that you, as passengers, are always informed. Delano deftly explains how the team efficiently handles unexpected hitches like bus breakdowns, and road detours due to accidents or road construction. Learn from an expert how they manage to extend transit center hours and provide additional buses during special events for your convenience. We also dip our toes into the intricate procedures of paratransit services and how swift actions are taken to accommodate passengers' schedules. Hold onto your seats for a captivating discussion that might just change the way you view your daily commute.

Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey of clean energy evolution with our esteemed guest, Kirt Conrad, CEO of SARTA's. Hold your seat tight as we revisit his remarkable experiences from his early clean energy days in Akron in 2005, and his work with Stan, who was named 'Scientist of the Century' by Scientist Magazine. We'll recount the thrill of Kirt’s ride in Stan's hydrogen-powered Prius with Senator Brown, and the pivotal role the Infrastructure bill and Inflation Reduction Act are playing in fueling more funds for decarbonization.

We'll dive deep into the realm of renewable energy, weighing the pros and cons of producing hydrogen from renewable sources. Get ready to sift through the debates around the "greenest" form of energy and discover the potential of hydrogen as an energy storage solution. Kirt will share insights into the practical application of hydrogen at SARTA, revealing the intriguing process of creating solar panels that produce hydrogen during the day and how it is then fed back into a fuel cell at night. This episode will not only ignite your interest but also broaden your understanding of clean energy solutions!

Welcome to a glimpse into the world of transit projects with our esteemed guest, Clayton Popik Director of Development and Special Projects at SARTA. Navigating the labyrinth of capital projects can be daunting, but Clayton is here to demystify it all. We journey with him through the intricacies of the Massillon Transit Center expansion – a riveting narrative that includes the creation of a training pad, expanded parking, a walking path, lush landscaping, and an electric vehicle charging station. Clayton's insights into this project and the anticipation for its completion come January 2021 serve as a fascinating peek behind the curtain of construction and development.

But the conversation doesn’t stop at construction. Clayton, with his rich experience in procurement, unravels the complex world of value purchasing. From the subtle art of acquiring the right kind of furniture to exploring procurement methods like invitation for bid processes and request for proposals, his insights offer a comprehensive understanding of the nitty-gritty of transit operations. And that's not all. Our discourse extends to his role at Wayne County Transit, Title VI administration, and ADA evaluations, offering a holistic perspective on transit operations. Engage with us in this absorbing discussion, which promises to both educate and intrigue.