RTA Chairman Kirk Dillard Receives Distinguished Service APTA Award

October 10, 2017

Every year, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) recognizes excellence in the public transportation industry with their “best of the best” awards. We’re proud to announce that RTA Chairman Kirk Dillard was chosen to receive a 2017 Local Distinguished Service Award. Chairman Dillard received his award at the APTA annual meeting/EXPO this morning in Atlanta, Georgia.

Chairman Dillard has a long history of “moving things forward” in Illinois. He is a lifelong transit rider and regularly rides the RTA regional system from his suburban home to his offices in downtown Chicago. From the moment he was handed the gavel he has worked tirelessly in our region, in Springfield, and in Washington D.C. to advocate for the needs of regional transit riders. In both his decades of experience in the state legislature and his work with the leadership of CTA, Metra and Pace, his focus is on collaboration over division and communication over discord. Our transit region is better for having his leadership.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel congratulated the Chairman with the following statement:

“Congratulations to Chairman Kirk Dillard, who has been a positive force for public transportation in our region for decades, as a state senator and as the RTA Chairman. Working collaboratively with the leaders of CTA, Metra and Pace, he is a strong advocate for seeking the funding needed to maintain and improve our world-class transit system, including the historic modernization of Chicago’s Union Station. His efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of millions of people throughout the region and beyond.”

APTA Acting President and CEO Richard A. White added:

“Kirk Dillard is a strong advocate and committed leader for public transportation and is most deserving of APTA’s 2017 Local Distinguished Service Award. First as a state senator and now as the RTA Chairman, Dillard has been instrumental in advancing public transportation in the Chicago metro area and on the national level.”

Once again, congratulations to Chairman Dillard on a well deserved award!