The 33rd National Community Transportation Roadeo Winning Drivers

The 2024 Roadeo in West Palm Beach, Fla., showcased skilled bus drivers dedicated to safety

Washington, D.C., June 14, 2024 – The National Community Transportation Roadeo, celebrating the skills of rural and community transit operators, has concluded with the announcement of this year’s winners.

This unique event hosted by the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) is renowned for being the premier national venue that honors the contributions of community transit operators. Competitors came to West Palm Beach from across the United States to showcase their expertise and commitment to safe and sensitive passenger transport.

“This year’s Roadeo featured a challenging course at the South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach, Florida. It was designed to test the drivers’ abilities across multiple dimensions, with a strong emphasis on safe operations and passenger sensitivity,” shared Andrew Carpenter, Roadeo Coordinator. “We want to thank Palm Tran for their partnership and assistance with this event. This was our first year hosting a 30’ transit coach division and we couldn’t have done it without Palm Tran’s help.”

“It was a long day in the sun but the drivers all demonstrated their skills in real-world scenarios, navigating complex driving maneuvers, and adhering to best practices in passenger care,” said CTAA Executive Director Scott Bogren. “The competition’s rigorous standards recognize the most proficient and conscientious drivers. But ultimately every driver who went out there should be proud of what they accomplished on the course and what they accomplish every day in their communities.”

We are thrilled to announce the winners of the 2023 National Community Transportation Roadeo:

Body On Chassis (BOC/Cutaway):

• Fifth Place: Johnathan Taylor, Whatcom Transportation Authority, Bellingham, Wash.
• Fourth Place: Derek Johnson, Columbus Transit, Columbus, Ind.
• Third Place: Steve Huggins, Baldwin Regional Area Transit System, Robertsdale, Ala.
• Second Place: Bonnie Mitchell, Pierce Transit, Lakewood, Wash.
• First Place: Jesse Rodriguez, VIA Metropolitan Transit, San Antonio, Texas

Transit Coach (30 foot):

• Third Place: Joseph Granahan, Luzerne County Transportation Authority, Kingston, Pa.
• Second Place: Reynaldo Lopez, HARTransit, Danbury, Conn.
• First Place: Lonnell Glover, Alexandria Transit Company (DASH), Alexandria, Va.

Otis Reed, Jr., Driver of the Year: Jesse Rodriguez, VIA Metropolitan Transit, San Antonio, Texas

These exceptional individuals have showcased outstanding dedication, skill, and professionalism, embodying the spirit of community transportation. Their achievements highlight the critical role that rural and community transit operators play in enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals by providing safe, reliable, and compassionate transportation services. Congratulations to all the participants and winners of this year’s CTAA National Community Transportation Roadeo! These operators are truly the backbone of the community transportation industry.