CTpulse (July/Aug 2024)

WE'RE TURNING UP THE HEAT As the sun sets on summer and we embrace fall's crisp arrival, CTtransit will not stop bringing the heat. Whatever the weather, through any season — the CTtransit team will continue to ignite a series of accomplishments elevating the transit experience.

What we have achieved together this summer has been nothing short of phenomenal. Our CTfastrak BRT system is #1 in the country, our operators were recognized for their heroism, and we successfully completed a major service change. Your hard work and dedication have truly made a difference.

In this edition of CTpulse, you will read stories about team members stepping out of their comfort zones and creating unforgettable moments. But it is only a snapshot, a mere glimpse into the pulse of our organization's heartbeat— you.

Take a moment to reflect on your achievements. Be proud of our remarkable milestones, innovative projects, and strengthened community outreach. You have earned this moment of pride and relaxation as we celebrate your contributions.

Our plans are ambitious, and with your continued passion and creativity, we will meet and surpass our goals. Your role in these initiatives is not just important; it is crucial. You, the team members at CTtransit, are not simply a part of the driving force behind our success; you are the driving force. Your contributions are invaluable and integral to our operations.

Together, we will continue setting new standards of excellence.

Let's keep the heat rising and make this fall sizzle with more outstanding achievements!

Stay inspired,

Vanessa P. Brooks, MA Viber-in-Chief

FREDDY FIXER DAY PARADE

NEW HAVEN, CT

JUNE 2, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6

Roadeo Winners Driven By Competition

14

CTfastrak $38.9M Grant Secured

16

Hero On Wheels: Loida Fernandez

19

CTtransit Throwback

20

Moving Safely From Point A to B with Emad Abu Rami

22

Earl Byan Goes Above and Beyond

26

CTfastrak Ranks No. 1 in the Nation

28

Get Your Head in the Game with Emmanuel Beltre

30

Key to the City with Edith Wade

32

CTtransit Safety & Training Honored with Commendation

36

Family Values with Marc Astwood

39

Customer Compliments Corner

40

Service Changes Launched Aug 25, 2024

42

Holiday Rewind

48

Retirees

49

Safety Winners

50

Meet the Marketing Team

Photo 1 | Hartford Operator Graduation (July 5, 2024) Photo 2 | New Haven Operator Graduation (July 12, 2024) Photo 3 | Stamford Operator Graduation (August 16, 2024)

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TOM TALKS

1.

Dear Team,

As the General Manager of CTtransit, I am proud to witness the continued growth of this organization.

Big things are happening every day. This summer alone, CTfastrak was ranked #1 in the nation by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy. On the heels of that announcement, Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced a $38.9 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to help transition CTfastrak to an all-electric bus fleet. We also found success at the Roadeo, winning Rookie of the Year and earning first place in the 35-Foot Transit Bus Team Competition.

There are simply too many examples and not enough space to properly list them all.

2.

3.

At CTtransit, we diligently pursue opportunities to raise the bar, innovate, and provide the best possible service to our valued customers while continuing to set the standard for safety.

These principles are among the core of who we are. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities in the public transportation industry, I am confident we will continue positively impacting our community.

I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone across all three divisions for your hard work in making our service expansions a success.

You are the backbone of this company, and your efforts do not go unnoticed. I appreciate you all so much.

Sincerely,

Thomas E. Stringer Jr. General Manager

ROADEO WINNERS DRIVEN BY COMPETITION Each year, the highly esteemed Connecticut Statewide Transit Roadeo unites drivers from across the state in a display of skill and precision. Sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), this event is a testament to the professionalism and expertise of our operators. The Roadeo challenges participants with a timed obstacle course, testing their driving technique and ability. The first-place winners earn the privilege to represent Connecticut in the National/International Roadeo, a testament to their exceptional skills.

This year, despite the rain, CTtransit continued to shine, placing first in the 35-Foot Transit Bus Team Competition (CTtransit Hartford) and winning Rookie of the Year in the 35-Foot Transit Bus Competition (Ivan Martinez, CTtransit Stamford). CTtransit also placed second and fourth overall in the 35-Foot Transit Bus Individual Competition by Jamal Clark (Hartford) and Ivan Matinez (Stamford), respectively. In the 40-Foot Transit Bus Individual Competition, CTtransit placed third and fourth with Juan Carpio (Hartford) and Alvin Waugh (Hartford). The thrill of the competition was palpable, even in the rain.

These winners and their teammates across CTtransit were chosen to compete because they are the best at what they do in Connecticut. What drives this team to win? The spirit of competition and the strong camaraderie unites them in their shared passion for transit.

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“I like pushing myself to the limit,” said Alvin Waugh, representing CTtransit Hartford. Waugh is a past Roadeo winner — having placed first and second “many times” and even winning Rookie of the Year. He’s a Roadeo veteran.

Waugh sets a high standard for himself and wants to meet that standard. “I like the competition. I like being pushed. I’m very competitive.” But he’s quick to admit the joy. “There’s fun in competing. (The operators) want to see how far we can go. The whole thing is fun. It’s not a grudge match, but we still want to push ourselves. In the end, we'll still get along with the next person, but we want

“I LIKE PUSHING MYSELF TO THE LIMIT.” ­— Operator Alvin Waugh

to be able to look at them and say, 'Yeah, I've got you.'”

Jamal Clark is an Operator Trainer representing CTtransit Hartford and sets a high bar for himself.

He recognizes it's a great honor to be selected for the Roadeo and is proud of his work in getting there. However, he has his eye on the number one spot. “Even though earning second place is a great accomplishment, I thought I won.” Pride in their work is what drives these operators to greatness. “I’m a prideful person. I want to represent.

Wearing the uniform... We want to do the best we can to try and win,” said Clark.

Operator Ivan Martinez, 2024 Rookie of the Year, 35-Foot Transit Bus Competition

Center: Operator Alvin Waugh, Fourth Place, 40-Foot Transit Bus Individual Competition

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L to R: CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin T. Limmer, Operator Jamal Clarke, Second Place, 35-Foot Transit Bus Individual Competition and Connecticut Association for Community Transportation (CACT) Executive Director Mary Tomolonius

L to R: Operators Juan Carpio and Johnathan Hakian, First Place, 35-Foot Transit Bus Team Competition

The spirit of competition drives on.

“At the end of the day, it’s all friendly. If CTtransit wins, I’m happy. If they’re wearing blue, it doesn’t matter which division wins.” The inter-division “rivalry” is not as much of a rivalry as it is a camaraderie. Clark points out that many CTtransit competitors share tips leading up to the event — even through the event itself. They want to see each other succeed. ‘Competition is always fun, whether it’s basketball or something else; competition is always fun.’”

Juan Carpio is no stranger to the thrill of a Roadeo, having won multiple times before. He’s performed nationally in Las Vegas, Florida, and Kentucky. Carpio is one of those veterans other operators can rely on for tips on succeeding in the competition. Winning also adds pressure to the competition, “I’ve already won a few times, so people expect me to (place high).” But he doesn’t let that phase him, “I know how to do this. When you know your job, you’re not nervous anymore.” While he wishes he placed higher this year, Juan is still proud of himself.

A former Rookie of the Year and co-winner of the 35-Foot Transit Bus Team Competition alongside Jamal Clark, Johnathan Hakian is typically an easy-going person. He often sings while he drives his customers along their routes. He sings anything, naming Elton John or the Beetles as favorites. This year, he was anxious heading into the competition. Hakian has the Roadeo boiled down to a system, identifying the trouble spots and plans for where to line up his mirrors.

His advice for others is, “If you drive (the bus) like a car and keep your eye on everything — that’s what’s important. You always keep your eye on your mirrors and what’s around you; if you do that, then you shouldn’t have a problem.” This kind of friendly advice helped this year’s Rookie of the Year earn his title.

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“AT THE END OF THE DAY, IT'S ALL FRIENDLY. IF CTtransit WINS, I'M HAPPY.” ­— Operator Trainer Jamal Clark

Ivan Martinez, the 2024 Rookie of the Year in the 35-Foot Transit Bus Competition, made Stamford proud by conquering one of this competition’s most demanding challenges — the tennis ball course. During this test, operators were asked to drive between two lines of tennis balls without knocking them around. “The tennis balls were my biggest worry. The day of the training, I ran over the tennis balls each time,” said Martinez. During practice, he never completed the tennis ball course — within three attempts. However, on the day of the competition, Martinez breezed through without incident. What changed between the practice round and the competition?

Martinez quickly credits his teammates Manuel Moyano and Hugo Cervantes for sharing tips for success. Moyano notably passed the tennis ball test without contact as well. “A little help from everybody made the difference,” said Martinez.

“I was very happy with how I performed. When I heard my name called (as Rookie of the Year), everybody was cheering, the whole team, that’s what made it special. We’re all one team. I’m pretty sure (his reception) was the loudest.”

Martinez thanks Hector Roman and Jackie Romprey for motivating Stamford operators to get involved. “Roman kept insisting and putting messages out to join - ‘Roadeo here’ and ‘Roadeo there.’”

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"All the talk about the Roadeo interested people, (Roman) made it special. We were all one, representing Stamford,” said Martinez.

Martinez then jokes, "I told the contestant from Greater Bridgeport Transit who won first place — 'I’m coming next year for your spot.’ He was excited; he said, ‘Alright!’”

That’s the spirit of competition.

This spirit is also alive in Roadeo hopefuls who may not have placed but made CTtransit proud. Alisha Turner, an operator from Stamford, summed up this year’s Roadeo quite nicely, “Everybody thinks they’re the best until you put it to the test.”

Through it all, Turner keeps an even head, reminding herself and others to “Stay focused and make your team proud. You worked hard to get here.”

Thaddeus Harris, an operator from New Haven, had a similar mindset when heading into the competition: "I like to represent New Haven. After 24 years of service, I feel like this is home, and I enjoy the camaraderie of my teammates."

Harris, along with Falaria Brown and Glenroy Ffrench, were among the operators eager to share their tips for success with each other. As the "first lady" of CTtransit, Brown joked that if the competition's goal was to hit many cones, she would take home first place.”

Julio Oregon, a 17-year veteran representing the Hartford division, dedicates his performance to his late father, who drove a Taxi for over 30 years in Peru.

Stamford’s Jackson Cariotte has also been driving for 17 years and called competing in the Roadeo and representing CTtransit the “best feeling in the world.” Noting that “It's not as easy as it looks. When you compete, all you can do is give it your best.”

When you want to compete, you had better call upon the best, and this year’s CTtransit contestants did not disappoint. The 2025 Roadeo may be one year away, but CTtransit already has its eye on the prize.

CTtransit Secures $38.9M FTA Grant for All-Electric CTfastrak Fleet Upgrade

Governor Lamont (center) and the Federal Transit Administration’s Peter Butler (farthest right) present the milestone award grant.

CTtransit is excited to share that Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) recently announced a $38.9 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to help convert our CTfastrak to an all-electric bus fleet.

“We are thrilled to announce that CTtransit has received a generous grant from the FTA to introduce electric buses and launch a workforce development training program in Hartford, CT,” said Thomas E. Stringer Jr., General Manager. “This significant investment showcases our commitment to sustainable transportation and underscores our dedication to fostering skilled professionals for the future. We look forward to this initiative’s positive impact on our community, environment, and local economy. Thank you to the FTA and the CTDOT for their continued support.”

This grant, awarded through the FTA’s Low or No Emission Grant Program, will facilitate the purchase or lease of zero-emission transit buses and the necessary facility upgrades.

CTtransit will utilize these funds to acquire 46 battery-electric buses and install 29 chargers for the CTfastrak bus rapid transit service. The grant will also cover the cost of installing 25 depot chargers at the Hartford facility and four on-route chargers at the CTfastrak New Britain Station, along with the required electrical infrastructure. This initiative is backed by Page 14

over $17 million in matching state funds and $30 million from federal formula funds.

This milestone represents significant progress toward Governor Lamont’s objective of transitioning the entire statewide public transportation bus fleet from diesel to zero-emission models by 2035.

“The new battery-electric buses and chargers will help us meet the growing demand for reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transit options, and will greatly benefit the thousands of residents and commuters who rely on CTfastrak services every day,” said Governor Lamont. “Thank you to the Biden-Harris administration for continuing to invest in green technology that will modernize Connecticut’s public transit system and spur new economic opportunities across the state.”

Around $5.6 billion in funding has been allocated through President Joe Biden’s recently enacted Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support the replacement of thousands of public transit vehicles nationwide.

“Investing in electric buses for the CTfastrak fleet is a forward-thinking move that highlights Connecticut’s dedication to sustainability and innovation,” said CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

CTfastrak was recently recognized as the best bus rapid transit system in the United States by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy.

HERO ON WHEELS: LOIDA FERNANDEZ How one CTtransit operator helped reunite a lost child with her family.

Operator Loida Fernandez

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OPERATOR SPOTLIGHT Operator Loida Fernandez, #1845, has been driving buses for over 18 years with CTtransit. A self-described “country girl” from the Dominican Republic, Fernandez loves sitting behind the wheel and working alongside the real people who get on and off her bus each morning. “The day goes faster out there than inside an office,” she says.

Some days move faster than others.

It was a day like any other on her usual route through Hartford in the Spring. It was 5 am, and it was dark and cold outside the safety of her bus.

“I’m coming inbound, and all of a sudden, I see this baby running across the street to my door,” recalls Fernandez. “As a mom, I knew I needed to stop.”

Operator Fernandez then opened the bus door to see a roughly four- or five-year-old toddler looking back at her. The child was wearing a diaper, a short-sleeve shirt, and shoes.

“I opened the door, and she came running onto the bus. At the same time, she wanted to get out right away. So, I closed the door and said, ‘No, no, you’re not going anywhere.’ She then ran to the back. That’s when I called dispatch.”

Soon after, a CTtransit supervisor arrived, and the police were notified and on their way.

“Once (the little girl) was inside the bus, I knew she was safe. I was just worried about where she came from and what had happened, but I knew we would find help for her.

We were going to bring her to the right place,” said Operator Fernandez.

It was not just Operator Fernandez’s quick thinking or the support of emergency services that came to the rescue. The remaining passengers on the bus stepped up to offer what support and compassion they could. One of the passengers chose to sit with the young girl and offer comfort while waiting for the police to arrive. Many riders offered grace and understanding that their morning commute was halted.

When one of the passengers expressed concern about arriving late to their crucial 6 am meeting, a CTtransit supervisor delivered this passenger where they needed to go. “We take care of business like always,” said Operator Fernandez.

Seeing this young girl lost on a dark and cold Hartford street, Operator Fernandez couldn’t help but think of her children.

“I am a mom of 2 kids,” said Operator Fernandez. “Oh, my goodness, if that was me...

Losing my kid, wondering how that happened? (Wondering) What’s going on?

You start asking yourself questions.” She put herself in the shoes of this young girl’s mother. How would I want others to show up for my family? How would I want others to treat my child if they were lost in the city? “(I would want my child treated) the same way I treated her. I couldn’t leave that baby. There’s no question. I wasn’t going to leave that baby behind. I needed to find help for her, I wish I could’ve done more.”

Fortunately, this story has a happy ending. One heartpounding hour after it all began, police officers finally connected with the mother of this lost child, and the family was reunited once again. Tears of joy flowed freely for many.

“In public transportation, we need to look out for whoever needs help,” said Operator Fernandez. “That’s what we’re there for. When you’re a good person, and you know that someone needs help, you should provide it.”

Transit operators are uniquely positioned to see many of the same customers day in and day out. Whether spoken or not, a relationship of mutual respect and familiarity is formed. An experienced driver like Fernandez might notice subtle differences in their customers if they carry themselves differently.

“On my regular route, I know where customers are going, if they need to make a connection…You learn to read people.” Loida Fernandez, operator #1845, is a hero for recognizing a needy child and taking action. She is also a hero for showing up daily and caring about those who may approach her door.

“There are good days and bad. You have just got to be mentally ready to take on the world,” concluded Operator Fernandez.

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CTtransit

THROWBACK "CTtransit means a lot to me, I appreciate having worked there.

I think it’s a good company, and the people are good too.”

— Retired Bill Ratcliffe

L to R: Guy Gengras, Mr. Ratcliffe, and E. Clayton Gengras with a classic CTtransit bus

Bill followed his Dad's footsteps by working at CTtransit.

He briefly worked as a bus washer while his Dad was the head Foreman.

Bill Ratclifee retired in 2018.

MOVING SAFELY FROM POINT A to B with EMAD ABU RAMI

Operator Emad Abu Rami #794 stands tall next to his bus.

Operator Emad Abu Rami #794 was a bus driver in Israel for over 14 years before he moved to America. He faced enough dangerous situations before he decided it was time to make a change.

"Do you want to know one of the most important reasons why I am a bus driver?" asked Operator Rami. "The view."

When you work in an office, you face a wall, and you face a computer. The sound of keyboards clacking is the soundtrack of your day. But in the driver's seat, Operator Rami explained that he loves the trees and the buildings — he loves to witness the transformation of cities around him. Businesses open and close, and storefronts are painted and repainted.

"One of life's biggest, most relaxed moments is sitting in my (driver's) seat at the start of my shift. I love it so much," said Rami.

Unfortunately, life is not always fair or easy. Sometimes there is danger.

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On June 11 at 5:10 pm, public transit bus #1844 was unintentionally caught in a shooting incident near a convenience store in Connecticut. The bus was headed back to the garage.

Operator Rami was the driver. There was only one passenger on board, a CTtransit employee. Law enforcement confirmed the bus was not the target.

“YOUR REACTION IN A DANGEROUS SITUATION IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE SITUATION ITSELF.” ­— Operator Emad Abu Rami #794

According to Operator Rami, there are three steps one should take when dealing with a dangerous situation.

1.

2.

3.

You must leave the area.

You must determine, "Am I safe?"

You must ask for help.

"Your reaction in the dangerous situation is more important than the situation itself," continued Operator Rami. In his experience, the best way to calm your mind in a stressful situation boils down to one idea. You must hide the danger from your mind and start to think about your safety. If one focuses all their energy on the present danger – they will never take that first step.

Operator Rami wants to help people. He has been a licensed practical nurse since 1991.

There are many ways to help someone and look out for one another. He has tried to instill that vital lesson with his four children.

These days, he enjoys looking out for the customers on his routes. What is the best way to do that as a Professional Operator? By watching your speed limit. If you are moving too fast, you cannot keep people safe. You must slow down for the light. You must slow down to make the best decision for your safety and the safety of others. Considering everything, that is the advice he has been giving his entire life. Sometimes, the most impactful journeys are the ones that are taken with care and consideration.

"Speed is everything," said Operator Rami.

EARL BRYAN GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND

L to R: Jacquelyn Romprey, Earl Bryan, and Hector Roman.

Picture this: the dispatch phone line is ringing off the hook with calls from confused customers, wondering where their bus is. They don’t know that new construction is temporarily blocking their stop, rendering it unavailable. This situation is causing significant inconvenience and frustration to our customers. Earl Bryan, Transportation Supervisor for CTtransit, had a choice: keep fielding customer phone calls or find a creative solution to a delicate problem.

He made the choice to roll up his sleeves and dive into the task at hand, showcasing his unwavering dedication to our customers and the CTtransit team.

Bryan printed custom signs and hit the street, posting them for everyone to see around the affected stop.

You won’t find “graphic designer” in his job description.

Nobody expected him to go that extra mile. He saw a need, an opportunity to help others, and did what needed to be done.

“I love what I do—helping people,” Bryan said. That’s where I get my joy. That’s where you get your blessings.

When you go out of your way for people,” his co-workers and peers have taken notice.

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“He seems to have an approachable aura about him. He’s very friendly. He looks you in the eye when he talks to you,” said Jacquelyn Romprey, Superintendent of Safety & Training, “It lets me know that he’s listening.”

As an 11-year veteran at CTtransit, many turn to Bryan for assistance, especially those new to the organization. Whether it is for help setting up a printer, Transit Master support, or guiding a friend through a personal matter, Bryan is eager to help. “I can go to Earl for many things; he’s been able to guide me a lot. He goes above and beyond what’s expected of him,” Andrew Miranda, Division Manager for CTtransit. Miranda counts himself amongst those Bryan has helped transition into the Stamford division. He was careful to note how great of an employee Bryan is, how helpful he can be.

Bryan recalled an experience earlier in his professional career where those in positions of power often withheld important information. This was a work culture where processes were siloed and kept close to the chest out of personal interest or gain. Bryan adapted, hung around the veterans, and learned what he could.

Once he knew the way, Bryan helped and shared his knowledge with incoming team members. From then on, he set an example and created opportunities for others instead of stunting growth.

“He’s taken me out in the field with him. I’m not from Stamford, and he takes me through routes and familiarizes me with the city,” said Hector Roman, CTtransit Training Manager.

“I don’t like to bother anybody, but he’s just been there — constantly reminding us to let him know if we need anything.” Roman, who has only been with the organization for 3 months, is deeply grateful for Bryan's problem-solving nature and his selfless investment of time and knowledge.

“You have to share the wealth,” said Bryan. “It’s always better to teach somebody.”

Bryan, with his extensive experience as an operator, leads by example. He demonstrates his expectations through his interactions with others. He understands the stress that comes with any job, especially in the transit industry. Having walked in their shoes and driven down those roads, he values the balance between 'fun' and a 'by the book' approach.

“I’m always smiling, laughing, joking. I try to be easy to talk to. When people get to know me, they see the fun side… I’m not here to hurt anybody. I’m trying to make sure things are functional and smooth,” said Bryan.

He’s “old-fashioned” like that, partly because of his Caribbean heritage. He was taught at a young age that opportunity must be earned, not given. That belief carries with him through today. Work hard for what you want in this life and lift someone up along the way — he tries to impart that message to his children and peers in the organization.

“We are responsible for many souls in this lifetime. If you can touch somebody with a smile or a ‘hello,’ that could go a long way for a lot of people. You don’t know what people are going through. It carries a lot,” said Bryan, a figure of empathy and understanding.

In this fast-paced industry, he takes that “responsibility” as seriously as any in his job description. When faced with a difficult choice, as he was when those phone lines were ringing off the hook, Bryan's unwavering work ethic is a source of motivation for all.

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CT transit NIGHT AT THE BALLPARK

HARTFORD, CT

AUG 15, 2024

WATCH CTtransit's BARRY DIGGS THROW OUT THE FIRST PITCH

CTfastrak BUS SYSTEM RANKS NO.1 IN THE NATION CTfastrak, Connecticut's pioneering Bus Rapid Transit system, has been officially recognized as the best in the nation by the Institute of Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP).

ITDP, a global organization dedicated to urban innovation, hosts a comprehensive ranking system for bus rapid transit systems worldwide. This ranking, which considers factors such as corridor length, busway alignment, and intersection treatments, is a rigorous process that involves thorough evaluation and comparison of various transit systems. CTfastrak's recognition results from its exceptional performance across each of the five main categories for design, significantly improving Connecticut's urban mobility.

"This achievement is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication and the unwavering support of the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and our customers," said Thomas E. Stringer Jr., General Manager of CTtransit. "CTfastrak is honored to lead the way in sustainable urban transportation and remains committed to providing safe, efficient, reliable, and accessible public transit for the community. Thank you, Institute for Transportation and Development Policy, for this incredible recognition!"

CTfastrak is Connecticut’s first bus rapid transit system and only the second in all New England. Utilizing a bus-only roadway, CTfastrak is designed with convenience in mind, allowing customers the opportunity to circumvent traffic and free up travel time to get work done (courtesy of free Wi-Fi) or relax and enjoy the ride. Connecting, transferring, and paying fares is also made simple with the integrated CTtransit system. Offering no-transfer rides to meaningful employment, shopping, and healthcare destinations and connections to the New Haven Line-Waterbury branch rail and CTrail Hartford Line service — CTfastrak is a reliable and comfortable one-way ticket to success.

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According to DOT spokesperson Joe Cooper, after nearly a decade in operation, the CTfastrak has not only transformed Greater Hartford’s transportation network but also the lives of its residents. It provides convenient and reliable bus service to thousands of riders on an average weekday, connecting them to new housing, shopping, and employment destinations that have sprung up along the system’s bus-only roadway between New Britain and Hartford.

The CTfastrak system has proven its mettle, scoring an impressive 79.2 out of 100 and earning the esteemed ‘Silver’ distinction. This recognition, a testament to the system’s efficiency and effectiveness, is particularly noteworthy as only two American cities managed to secure a spot in the top 50, with Hartford leading the way.

“We are immensely proud to see CTfastrak recognized as the nation’s top bus rapid transit system,” expressed Patrick Cooney, a Division Manager for CTfastrak.

“This achievement is a testament to the power of teamwork. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the professional operators, dispatchers, and the entire CTtransit team for their unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and delivering exceptional service.” CTtransit, the brand name for services operated by private bus companies under the CTDOT contract, is a true reflection of this dedication.

GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME with EMMANUEL BELTRE

Emmanuel Beltre crushes a pitch during a softball game.

Stress is a part of everyday life. When you think you have it figured out, another stressor awaits you on deck. Whether it is due to work, home, kids, health, or the Yankees — managing your stress is one of life’s most essential skills to learn.

Emmanuel Beltre, 2nd Shift Technician at CTtransit, finds relief at the plate: bases loaded, two outs, bottom of the ninth, down by three runs.

Baseball has always been his love. “I’ve been playing since I was five years old,” said Beltre, “I’m Dominican; it’s natural.” Baseball is in his blood. His Dad’s cousin’s son is Major League Baseball 2024 Hall of Fame Inductee Adrian Beltré. Seriously.

For Emmanuel Beltre, baseball is a release, a chance to recharge his battery. Some people find an escape by going on vacation, only to fall into the same stress patterns when they return. But the baseball diamond waits for him every Tuesday night as his team (the Miller Motor Cars) takes the field. As a result, he can sustain that exhale of relief.

“Without baseball, I would be bored. I need the excitement,” said Beltre.

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Now, baseball might not be for you. Not everyone needs a bat to get back into the swing of things. Beltre recommends you find your own personal “baseball.” Historically, he has gone for walks and gotten fresh air to clear his mind while on the job. Beltre has only been with CTtransit for two months, but he recalled a time when the stress got too high at his last job.

“There was a check engine light on (one of the cars he was fixing), and I had no idea why. I had to start looking through diagnostics and going back and forth with tech support in the UK. It took me two weeks to figure out… If you let it, the stress will eat you alive.”

Going outside and catching some fresh air might be all you need to make solid contact with a solution. Strike out your stress.

Whatever you may be going through now or in the future, let CTtransit offer you the support you need. Mental health training is offered monthly and encouraged from top to bottom across the organization.

“I want to highlight that our organization is committed to creating a supportive environment where mental health is openly discussed and seeking help is encouraged,” said Thomas E. Stringer Jr, General Manager of CTtransit. “We are here for each other and must continue to foster a culture of understanding, compassion, and empathy.”

CTtransit’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is completely confidential and free. Do not get lost at the plate when you could start rounding the bases with healthy solutions. You are not alone. Get on board for mental health awareness today and know that support is a call away.

EAP Call Center: 1.800.676.HELP (4357)

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS DAY

AUG 5, 2024

KEY TO THE CITY with EDITH WADE

Edith Wade stuns in front of a CTtransit bus.

As a seasoned customer service professional at CTtransit, Edith Wade has honed her skills in navigating the city she serves — the routes, the landmarks, the businesses. Her unique perspective offers valuable insights for anyone looking to explore Stamford. Before you know it, you might also learn to love that city!

Supervising Transportation Planner Edith Wade loves Stamford. Her friends tell her she’s the unofficial tour guide. If you spend any amount of time with her, it’s clear that she has a passion for the city and all it has to offer. The CTtransit Marketing Department sat down with Wade to discuss her personal recommendations, adding a unique touch to the experience of exploring Stamford.

“Each year, Stamford brings art to the city,” Wade begins. “It’s called ArtNORMOUS. It’s huge. They bring in art from all over — not just local artists.”

ArtNORMOUS is the latest pop-up art exhibit in downtown Stamford, presented by the Reckson & Cappelli Organization in partnership with George Comfort & Sons. This exhibit features seven enormous bronze statues from 4 renowned artists placed throughout downtown Stamford and is free to view and enjoy. One of the installations, located outside the local library, features a 15-foot-tall bronze “Hippo Ballerina” by Bjørn Okholm Skaarup.

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All these statues are easily accessible from CTtransit bus routes.

Wade recommends ArtNORMOUS for all to see, but not just because of any one piece of art. She loves what this exhibit says about her community. Stamford encourages its residents to get out and experience the arts—to find joy, to spark a conversation or fuel a debate, to feel something. That’s what Wade enjoys about the ArtNORMOUS project. She appreciates a city that isn’t afraid to showcase creativity, a city that brings in art every year for free just because they find it valuable.

“Stamford is just enough. You don’t want the concrete jungle, the hustle and bustle. It’s a nice family town because it offers so much.”

ArtNORMOUS sculptures will be on display through September 2024.

CTtransit SAFETY & TRAINING HONORED with COMMENDATION

Operator Trainer Ashley McBride (second from left) and Transportation Supervisor Allen Taylor (last on the right) with law enforcement officials.

When Ret. West Hartford Police Detective/SWAT Team Member Rob Magao approached CTtransit two years ago for assistance with a de-escalation training program at the CT police academy, his request was simple-a bus. However, what he received was far more than a vehicle. CTtransit's unique approach transformed how de-escalation training is taught in Connecticut.

When Christopher DeGrave, Assistant General Manager of Safety, Security & Technical Training at CTtransit, heard the initial request for a bus, questions emerged.

How might CTtransit strengthen the bond between themselves and law enforcement?

How might they bridge the gap between the operators who service the public and the law enforcement who support them?

It all began with a conversation over coffee.

Magao and DeGrave met to discuss their goals and what they each hoped to accomplish with this training. Magao needed buses to train law enforcement during hands-on scenarios.

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DeGrave knew that if law enforcement could understand the challenges operators encounter and operators could better understand law enforcement’s de-escalation processes, they could work together to be part of a shared solution. To accomplish this goal, they needed to get real.

Yes, CTtransit provided a bus, but they also helped to design realistic scenarios based on their operator’s real-life experiences on the road. They also provided professional operators to work as “actors” in these mock scenarios. These extra touches of realism better prepare law enforcement for what they will face on the road and equip operators to understand how law enforcement operates.

The good news? It’s working.

DeGrave shares a story about how one law enforcement officer successfully applied this redesigned de-escalation training in their daily work. Shortly after taking the training, an officer responded to a call about an incident on a bus in Manchester, CT. While investigating the situation, a knife was pulled. According to the officer, the de-escalation training was a crucial turning point in managing the incident safely and avoiding a negative outcome.

This success story is just one of many, reassuring the public of the positive impact of this training on law enforcement.

“We want to ensure we provide all the tools that we can. Our goal is to keep people safe and get them home at night.

That is exactly what we are trying to do,” said Christopher DeGrave. This hands-on training L to R: Ret. Detective Rob Magao, Allen Taylor, and Ashley McBride.

is just one example of how CTtransit has made a conscious effort to break down barriers and become more involved with its community partners. Community partnerships that include emergency personnel and law enforcement.

During this year’s de-escalation training, Operator Trainer Ashley McBridge was fortunate enough to play the role of the bus operator. Being an active participant in the training allowed her to see just how transformative this training can be for future operators. "It is essential for us to come together with law enforcement. I can now share what I've learned with other professional operators. As an Operator Trainer, I will let the new operators know what the police are doing to help us. If you have an incident and the police arrive, I can tell operators, 'Stay calm, talk to law enforcement. Here's how they're going to help you.' It was a very positive experience."

Allen Taylor, Superintendent of Safety & Training for CTtransit, was crucial in coordinating the training with law enforcement and Ret. Detective Rob Magao. As an "extra" on the bus during the live training scenarios, he witnessed the invaluable benefits of this partnership. “We both share a purpose to service the public. When we can unite as one, transportation and law enforcement, we can serve the public more effectively," Taylor emphasized. This unity and cooperation between us and law enforcement is what makes our efforts truly impactful.

CTtransit’s Christopher DeGrave, Allen Taylor, and Ashley McBride all received a special commendation from Ret. Detective Magao for their work going above and beyond to support this de-escalation program. It is an honor to be recognized.

"I am incredibly proud of this team. Time and again, they rise to the occasion with unwavering dedication and commitment. This commendation is a testament to their excellence and the meaningful impact we create as a team," said Thomas E. Stringer Jr, General Manager at CTtransit.

The extra time and care we take today can profoundly affect what happens tomorrow.

“That is why I’m hoping programs like this continue and expand. Dropping off a bus is easy.

It is the pre-work, the post-work, that matters. That’s what we can bring to the table — a thorough preparation and follow-up to ensure the highest standards of service and safety are met.” said Christopher DeGrave.

De-escalation training involved realistic scenarios of what CTtransit operators encounter on the road.

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THE FULL COMMENDATION

EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE Going the Extra Mile

My name is Rob Magao and I run a police training program here in Connecticut and beyond, where we partner with police agencies and supply state of the art training in the areas of use of force, tactical medical, de-escalation, and decision-making skills for law enforcement officers to better prepare them for their duties serving the public.

One of the most important aspects of this program is the scenario training that we provide.

The scenario training places each student in realistic situations where they are required to respond to mock calls that are staffed with professional role players who act out a police related call for the officers to handle.

The scenarios are based on actual Connecticut incidents in which police officers have responded. We do our best to provide a realistic environment for the scenarios, so officers get the best training to prepare them for a real-world incident.

Your staff at Connecticut Transit have been instrumental in making this a possibility by providing buses for us to conduct the scenarios in. This has been amazing! Not just having the buses to train on, but also being able to interact with your staff and create a partnership with your personnel. Each one of your staff that have assisted in the training have been incredible, and we have all learned from one another.

I would like to personally thank you and those from Connecticut Transit that are listed below for their efforts and support. Without them, the course would not be the same.

The following safety leadership have coordinated and/or participated in the most recent course which was held at the Connecticut State Police Training Academy in Meriden, CT. Chris DeGrave and Allen Taylor along with Operator Ashley McBride who were all amazing!

We truly appreciate our continued partnership and look forward to exploring other training opportunities with you and your staff.

Sincerely, Rob Magao, The Officer Survival Series: De-Escalation Through Confidence 860.377.7897 | www.officersurvivalseries.com

FAMILY VALUES with MARC ASTWOOD

Operator Astwood and Stamford Division Manager Andrew Miranda.

When you ride with Operator Marc Astwood, consider yourself a part of the family. This is the philosophy he brings every day he puts on the uniform.

Stamford is where he calls home, the city he was born and raised in. For three years now, Stamford has also been his professional home while driving professionally for CTtransit.

It is a blessing to drive in the same city where you live. The streets are familiar, and so are the city landmarks and traffic patterns. You certainly see plenty of familiar faces, including friends of your parents or people you went to school with. You know the regulars, but you also see who is new in town and who is coming or going.

“I know a lot of people in this town,” said Operator Astwood. “You always have to keep that in the back of your mind, because how you act is going to reflect on your family. Be calm, don’t escalate.”

Astwood refers to a popular safety message touted by the Safety & Training team. When he feels like he is challenged by a customer on the job, the first thing he does is take a breath and count to ten. Once his mind is at ease, he can more effectively analyze and de-escalate a given situation. Afterward, he is drawn back to “family.”

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“Can I see myself or a family member in (my customers)?” said Astwood. “Can I relate to this person? Are they having a bad day, or a bad situation? Those are the thoughts I align myself with when it comes to (stressful interactions on the bus).”

On July 1, 2024, approximately three minutes into his first ride of the day, Operator Astwood was met with a disruptive customer. This customer was shouting and disturbing other customers with repeated, unwanted requests. When another customer discreetly told Astwood that the disruptive passenger had a knife — he knew he had to act.

Astwood tactfully alerted Dispatch of the situation and requested assistance at the next stop.

Estimated time of arrival was two minutes away. If he could just keep everyone level-headed and calm, then we were in the clear. Suddenly, another customer solicits Astwood, “Can you ask (this disruptive customer) to leave me alone?” He did his best to calmly and carefully heed the request, but now this disruptor had turned their attention to Astwood. They began accosting him saying, “You don’t own this bus.”

Knowing that help was only a block away, Astwood’s goal was to not escalate the situation.

Keep calm, drive on.

“I know I have help waiting at the next stop. Dispatch will be meeting us in two minutes,” said Astwood. “I played it cool. I know how to act. Poker face.”

When Astwood arrived at the next stop, Dispatch was not waiting for him as expected.

Instead, Dispatch sent two police officers to investigate the situation. Soon after, the disruptor was removed from the bus.

When asked how he was able to stay cool, Astwood offered, “I prepare myself for situations like that. You have to always stay alert and aware.” He continues, “The safety messages I hear over the radio from Dispatch help me. Some drivers might brush them off, but I visualize them. I play scenarios out in my head.”

The safety message, “Educate, don’t escalate” was particularly helpful to Astwood during this incident.

“It’s about avoiding conflict, avoiding confrontation,” said Hector Roman, Training Supervisor.

“It’s about teaching your passengers the rules, like the importance of paying the fare. Not all customers know the policy. It’s our job to explain it, not necessarily to enforce it. Don’t put yourself and your passengers at risk over a fare.”

Roman continued, “We want all our operators to go home to their families. His story could save somebody.”

Training Supervisor Hector Roman attending a Safety Blitz this summer in Stamford.

This positive result is a testament to the power of proper coordination and communication between Dispatch and operators. Theirs is one of the most important relationships in this industry, and this situation goes to show what can be accomplished when they work together.

“There has to be a good relationship between Dispatch and operators in order to diffuse situations like these and keep everybody safe,” said Roman.

By fostering a supportive environment and focusing on de-escalation and education, Astwood, Dispatch, and local law enforcement officers ensured the safe delivery and comfort of CTtransit passengers. This approach exemplifies what can be accomplished when we work together, lead with empathy, and remember the importance of “family.”

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CUSTOMER COMPLIMENTS

SERVICE CHANGES LAUNCHED AUGUST 25, 2024 On August 25, with the support from Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Legislature, the Connecticut Department of Transportation and CTtransit proudly introduced bus service expansions, as detailed on: www.cttransit.com/servicechanges.

This effort continues the bus service expansions that began in March. These and future enhancements to the state’s bus network will establish smaller hubs, merge bus stops, and reduce commuter wait times. By optimizing the distance between stops, bus services can operate more efficiently.

Valued customers in Hartford, New Haven, Orange, Meriden, Wallingford, along the Berlin Turnpike will benefit from new routes designed to enhance transit opportunities. As part of this initiative, we will also discontinue and redesign existing routes along the Berlin Turnpike, the CCSU Connector, and the Hartford/Newington Express. These changes reflect our unwavering commitment to improving public transportation and ensuring more efficient and convenient travel for our passengers.

Additional wide-ranging changes will be implemented along existing routes to significantly enhance service delivery, making customer travel experience even better. “I am proud to announce these service adjustments to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our public transportation system,” said Thomas E. Stringer, Jr., CTtransit General Manager.

“These changes are a testament to our commitment to providing reliable, responsive, and high-quality transit services to the people of Connecticut.”

Now you might be asking yourself: How are service adjustments decided?

Three times a year, new service changes like these are implemented in response to changing travel patterns across Connecticut. These travel updates are sourced through several factors, including customer feedback and surveys, municipal requests and recommendations like the CTDOT’s Customer Experience Action Plan, and CTtransit's internal reports and data analysis of routes. For instance, data analysis might reveal that a particular route is underutilized during certain hours, prompting an adjustment to the schedule. This approach ensures that bus services are always aligned with the needs and preferences of communities.

Customer feedback is not just valuable; it’s crucial for potential service adjustments. The dedicated riders who use these buses daily have a unique perspective on how they operate, and we are always eager to hear from them. When there’s customer demand for new services, the process begins by researching a given route and analyzing factors such as ridership numbers and on-time performance. Following this, we drafts proposals and secure funding — which can all take time.

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CTtransit has also introduced new tools to help professional operators internally and enhance the external customer experience.

A 40-page book called The Scoop was designed to help operators become better accustomed to all the new and adjusted routes. This custom book features turn-by-turn directions for adjusted routes and allows operators to internalize their journey before hitting the road. The Scoop is available to operators across all three divisions.

For those customers without access to a smartphone, we also designed custom brochures offering an overview of all the service changes that took effect on August 25. In these brochures, each new, adjusted, and discontinued route is highlighted with notes on what customers need to know to ride confidently. All three divisions' customer service phone numbers are included to answer any questions that may arise. Four thousand of these brochures were printed in English and Spanish and distributed to each of the 400+ buses within our system.

CTtransit remains proactive within the community, supporting new businesses and developing comprehensive service plans. We are committed to continuous service enhancements to meet the ever-changing needs of our valued customers. One of our goals is to ensure that public transportation remains a safe, reliable, and efficient option for everyone, now and in the future.

HOLIDAY REWIND

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HOLIDAY REWIND

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HOLIDAY REWIND

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GONE FISHIN’ HAPPY RETIREMENT! Russell Roland

Balaboni Hardwick

HFD Maintenance Supervisor HFD Bus Operator

In a previous edition, these names were incorrectly attributed ­— this error has since been corrected.

COUNT THE ORBS Blue ("turning up the heat" inspired!) orbs are scattered throughout this magazine, did you spot them all? The first person to correctly ID how many blue orbs are hiding wins a prize. Happy searching! Hint: we do not count any orbs depicted in photos.

Send your guess to: communications@cttransit.com

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C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S

J U LY S A F E T Y W I N N E R S

NEW HAVEN Bridgette Marquis #121 Edwin Plaza #133 Kelly Hurlburt Hawkins #625 Arthur Berube #627 Luis Guerrero #632 Richard Osborne #724 Craig Dunston #768 David King #775 Jasmine Medina #798 Carlos Espinal #6013 Katherine Crespo #6049

Renee Oden #6050 Leslie Rosario-Resto #6053 Shaurice Council #6056 Breanna Holden #6088 Jose Arocho #6089 Shanna Bowyer #6095 Vladimir Montina #6096

STAMFORD

Hugo Cervantes #2133 Sean Green #2158 Marie Desir #8020

HARTFORD Marvin Chatfield #11639 Jose Ofray #11738 Mario Nieves #11697 Juan Rodriguez #11617 Dennis Minott #11751 Errol Melville #11817 Aileen Smith #11769 Maria Maldonado #11809 Michelle Johnson #11847 Mitat Fifo #11859 Gerald Smith Sr. #11814 Michael Rodriguez #13183

Landis Serrano #13131 Mohamoud Hussein #13243 Garvey Grant #13182 Keanu Yepez #13292 Juston Welch #13296 Zane Chung #13194 Andrew Alfiorov #13246 Breanna Hartfield #13172 Christina Gillott #13185 Sheik Mohamed #13340 Skender Shaqollari #13388 Nejaughn Ware #13392

Jeansy Taveras #1339 Maxim Indarpaul #13290 Lisa Smith #13403 Erwin Smith #13471 Marcia Jones #13472 Gazmend Poka #13474 Katty Cabanillas #13492

VANESSA P. BROOKS, MA Viber-in-Chief / Sr. Director of Marketing, Communications & Public Affairs

Vanessa is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in marketing, communications, and community engagement.

She is dedicated to achieving measurable results and has expertise in customer experience management, public affairs, sponsorship development, and performance leadership across multiple disciplines. She is passionate about promoting sustainable transportation solutions and enhancing the overall transit experience for Hartford and surrounding communities.

Vanessa spearheads innovative marketing campaigns, formulates comprehensive communication strategies, and cultivates robust relationships with key stakeholders to support CTtransit’s mission and vision. Vanessa’s academic background includes a Master of Arts in IndustrialOrganizational Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

ISABELLE BROWN

Head Vibes Strategist / Multimedia Specialist

Isabelle is a 2020 graduate of the University of Hartford with a Bachelors in Communication with a double emphasis in Advertising & PR and Media Strategies. She began her professional journey working for a nonprofit organization specializing in paratransit, vanpools, and commuter benefits programs. Her career move to CTtransit shifted her focus from vans to buses. In her work as CTtransit’s Multimedia Specialist, Isabelle is responsible for digital communications through our social media platforms and website. Isabelle loves writing, crocheting, exploring nature throughout Connecticut, coffee, and animals.

KENNY FACEY

Vibe Views / Videographer / Photographer

Kenny is a proud Jamaican who packed up and moved to the USA to turn his entrepreneurial dreams into reality! By day, he's a passionate cinematographer with nearly five years of experience capturing life’s most memorable moments on film.

By night (or whenever the party calls), he's spinning tunes as a DJ with his own wedding company. When not behind the camera or the decks, you’ll find him outside, fishing, playing soccer, and soaking up everything nature has to offer!

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ELIZABETH HELLER

Designer of Vibes / Creative Services & Graphic Designer

Elizabeth is an award-winning Illustrator and Graphic Designer who strives to bring peoples’ imaginations to life. As a recent graduate from the University of Connecticut, CTtransit is the beginning of her professional career in Graphic Design.

She is incredibly excited to join the Marketing team, and to create art that promotes public transportation, community, and sustainability. In her free time, Elizabeth loves to try out new vegan recipes, draw at local cafes, hike, and spend time with her family and friends.

MICHAEL McKIERNAN

Art, Graphics & Vibes / Brand & Communications Manager

Michael arrives at CTtransit with over ten years of experience in Marketing and Communications. A man of many marketing “hats,” Michael’s photos have been featured in the Hartford Courant and Connecticut Magazine, and his videos have been featured on Broadway.com and Playbill.com. He was the lead designer for the Connecticut Critics Circle Awards two years in a row, and has been recognized by the Greater Hartford Arts Council for his audience-building and brand management expertise. Michael is happily married, has two wonderful kids, and one roomba.

CONTRIBUTORS THOMAS E. STRINGER JR. Executive Viber / General Manager

KEVIN MELENDEZ

Vibe Copy Editor / Assistant General Manager

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