GoBus Receives 2023 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations

September 26, 2023

GOBUS

ETCOG’s rural transit system, GoBus, has been awarded a 2023 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for its “Bridging Transit Gaps with GoBus” project.


The project involved creating partnerships with Longview Transit and Tyler Transit to extend GoBus services to special events and vulnerable populations residing in their urbanized zones, particularly those who do not have access to a bus route within walking distance. Through these coordinated projects, GoBus has been able to provide essential mobility options and extend its reach to fill critical transportation voids and enhance transportation services for the community it serves.


NADO is a Washington, DC-based association that promotes programs and policies to strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through regional cooperation, program delivery, and comprehensive strategies. The Excellence in Regional Transportation Awards showcase organizations for noteworthy projects and practices in rural and small metropolitan transportation planning, program delivery, and special initiatives. Award winners received national recognition during the 2023 National Summit on Rural Road Safety in Oklahoma City, OK, September 12-14.


“The Excellence in Regional Transportation Awards program showcases effective and creative transportation initiatives that improve accessibility, mobility, safety, and quality of life in regions around the United States,” shared current NADO President and Northern Arizona Council of Governments Executive Director Chris Fetzer. “Programs and projects like ‘Bridging Transit Gaps with GoBus’ foster community and economic connections and promote effective transportation networks.”


ETCOG’s Transportation Director, Vince Huerta, joined other award recipients and transit experts at the Rural Road Safety Summit to accept the award and deliver a workshop on using technology to improve transit services.


“GoBus, through its 'Bridging Transit Gaps’ project, has not only connected communities but also bridged the divide between opportunity and accessibility. This Excellence in Regional Transportation Award is a recognition of our dedication to leaving no one behind on the road to progress," said Huerta. 


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