Anaheim, CA (October 1, 2024) – The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) honored its 2024 AdWheel Grand Award winners at APTA’s TRANSform, held in Anaheim, CA, September 29-October 2. The awards recognize APTA member public transportation systems and business members for outstanding marketing, communications, and customer experience efforts that contributed to strategic organizational goals.
“Congratulations to the 15 trailblazing organizations that claimed top honors in the 2024 AdWheel Awards! Your bold and visionary campaigns don’t just move people—they spark connections, create lasting impact, and shape the future of our communities,” said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “Public transportation is more than a means of getting from A to B—it’s a catalyst for transforming lives and strengthening the fabric of society. Hats off to those who understand that every ride is a chance to drive our communities toward a more prosperous, connected future.”
APTA members entered 374 campaigns and hundreds of industry experts reviewed submissions in two competitive judging rounds. The Grand Awards were presented in three categories: workforce development, campaigns to increase ridership or sales, and other educational efforts. Honors were awarded in five groups, based on system size.
The Grand Award winners honored today are listed below and their full winning submission details can be found here.
Best Marketing and Communications on Workforce Development
- KC Streetcar Authority, Kansas City, MO
“Next Stop: Love What You Do” – Employee Recruitment Social Media Campaign
Fewer than 3 million annual passenger trips
- Lane Transit District, Eugene-Springfield, OR
Comprehensive Multimedia Recruitment Campaign
More than 3 million but fewer than 15 million annual passenger trips
- AC Transit, Oakland, CA
“Spring Into Your New Career” – Hiring Event
More than 15 million but fewer than 50 million annual passenger trips
- Toronto Transit Commission, Toronto, ON
“Be Essential” – Comprehensive Recruitment & Retention Campaign
More than 50 million annual passenger trips
- California High-Speed Rail Authority, Sacramento, CA
“I Will Ride” – Long-Term Transit Awareness Program for Students
Business Member
Best Marketing and Communications to Increase Ridership or Sales
- Minnesota Valley Transit Authority, Burnsville, MN
“HUZZAH!” – Campaign to Reduce Traffic Congestion
Fewer than 3 million annual passenger trips
- Metrolink, Los Angeles, CA
Student Adventure Pass Campaign
More than 3 million but fewer than 15 million annual passenger trips
- Valley Metro, Pheonix, AZ
Super Bowl Campaign
More than 15 million but fewer than 50 million annual passenger trips
- Los Angeles Metro, Los Angeles, CA
Taylor Swift Eras Tour Special Service Campaign
More than 50 million annual passenger trips
- RideCo, Los Angeles, CA
“Milpitas SMART: The Smart Way to Travel Around Town” Campaign
Business Member
Best Marketing and Communications Educational Initiative
- Rio Metro Regional Transit District, Albuquerque, NM
Rail Safety PSA
Fewer than 3 million annual passenger trips
- Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority, Dayton, OH
“Caring for Our Community” Campaign
More than 3 million but fewer than 15 million annual passenger trips
- Milwaukee County Transit System, Milwaukee, WI
“Save The Bus” Campaign to Avert the Fiscal Cliff
More than 15 million but fewer than 50 million annual passenger trips
- Calgary Transit, Calgary, AB
Transit Trailblazers Scavenger Hunt
More than 50 million annual passenger trips
- Q’Straint/Sure-Lok, Oakland Park, FL
“Put a Q in It” Campaign
Business Member
###
