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Rider's Almanac Blog

From GM Lesley Kandaras

Riding our system builds understanding, empathy

Posted by Drew Kerr | Thursday, August 1, 2024 9:58:00 AM

When I became general manager last July, I committed to riding every Metro Transit-branded and operated route within my first year on the job.   

I started by riding the METRO A Line to the 2023 State Fair and ended in July with a nighttime ride on the METRO Green Line.    

While I regularly ride these and other routes, I wanted to intentionally spend time on these trips speaking with you, our riders, about the experiences you’re having on our system.  

Through these conversations, I heard how valuable transit is in your lives and how much you appreciate our transit workers. I also heard you say that we need to do more to address concerns about public safety, cleanliness, and service options.   

Thank you to everyone who shared their story with me!  

Spending time on our system and hearing directly from riders places the data and other information we use when making decisions into a richer context. Riding every route has also been a fun and energizing experience that has deepened my resolve to make our system better for transit workers and riders.   

You will continue to see me and other staff out on our system.  

Senior leaders are required to ride an average of at least four times a month and monthly efforts to have staff present at stations and on vehicles will be maintained. Police Chief Ernest Morales III and I will also host listening sessions at several light rail stations in August.  

And, as always, you can reach me any time at [email protected].  

Thank you again and see you out there!