Boston, MA – (September 15, 2024) – The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) launched its annual TRANSform Conference today in Boston, running from September 15 – 17, 2025. The event brings together more than 3,100 public transportation industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators for education, networking, and collaboration.
APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas welcomed attendees, emphasizing the conference’s role in shaping the future of public transportation. “As we gather for TRANSform 2025, we celebrate an industry experiencing unprecedented momentum. With ridership increasing for five consecutive years, we’re not just meeting today’s transportation needs, we’re building the foundation for tomorrow’s smart mobility solutions.”
Skoutelas highlighted Boston’s significance as host city, noting its pioneering role in American public transportation. “Boston provides the perfect backdrop for our TRANSform Conference as home to America’s first public transit system,” Skoutelas said. “The MBTA’s rich history – from launching the nation’s first subway in 1897 to today’s groundbreaking modernization efforts – exemplifies the evolution and resilience that defines our industry.”
Bert Jacobs, Co-Founder and CEO of Life is Good, opened the conference with an inspiring keynote. Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Administrator Marcus Molinaro will deliver the afternoon keynote address, outlining the agency’s priorities and initiatives.
“We’re honored to welcome Administrator Molinaro to TRANSform 2025,” said Skoutelas. “We look forward to deepening our collaboration with FTA and working closely with Administrator Molinaro to advance our shared goal toward greater mobility and robust investment in public transportation that produces good-paying jobs and spurs innovation across the industry. This keynote is an important opportunity for our industry to engage with federal leadership and build momentum for America’s public transit future.”
Key highlights from the opening day include:
- Exhibit Hall Grand Opening showcasing cutting-edge technologies
- Panel on successful federal, state and local funding strategies
- Session on optimizing transit for large-scale events
- Discussion on MBTA’s Track Improvement Program (TIP)
- Session on next generation AI for transit agencies
- Panel on successful fare-evasions strategies
“This has been a remarkable year of reimagining service and modernizing infrastructure. Our advocacy work continues to secure crucial federal funding, enabling breakthrough projects from coast to coast,” Skoutelas said.
The conference concludes with the Innovation Summit on the final day, spotlighting emerging technologies set to revolutionize public transportation.
For more information about the APTA 2025 TRANSform Conference, please visit apta.com/TRANSform.
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