Business View Magazine - Mar 2024

cities, leaving public transit systems grappling with misconceptions about their value and efficiency. Under Clegg’s leadership, Valley Regional Transit is embarking on a multifaceted journey to reshape the narrative around public transportation. She reflects on the importance of communication in altering public perceptions. “Upon my arrival, we intensified our efforts to articulate the benefits of public transit, securing considerable media coverage and engaging directly with the community through events,” she reveals. This proactive approach has not only elevated the discourse around public transportation but has also fostered a deeper connection with the community Valley Regional Transit serves. Launching a comprehensive bus network redesign became a pivotal moment for community engagement, drawing over 4,000 responses from the public. “The feedback was unequivocally in favor of enhancing the system’s viability through increased frequency and extended service hours,” Clegg notes, underscoring the public’s appetite for a more robust transit service. Support also surged for improvements to stop amenities and the overall experience onboard, highlighting the community’s recognition of public transit’s potential to elevate the quality of urban life. In exploring the possibility of a regional rail system, Valley Regional Transit tapped into public enthusiasm for innovative transit solutions. “We received overwhelming support to investigate this option further, reflecting a collective vision for a more connected and accessible region,” Clegg adds. This exploration signifies a bold step towards redefining mobility in the area, emphasizing the role of public transit in shaping future transportation networks. Clegg also unveils plans for an information-centric campaign rich in insights about the economic and lifestyle benefits of public transit. “Transit is a critical tool in mitigating congestion and living costs, particularly in fast-growing regions where housing affordability is a concern,” she explains. 158 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 03