TROY — Troy Chamber President/CEO Ara Topouzian has been selected to serve on the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan’s Citizens Advisory Committee. The purpose of the CAC is to advise the Regional Transit Authority on transit issues, make suggestions for improvements in transit service and to advocate for greater funding for public transportation.
Selected for his skill set as well as his commitment to improving public transportation in our region, Topouzian will serve a two-year term alongside 29 others from Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne Counties and the city of Detroit.
A special RTA committee, consisting of Board Members Lisa Franklin (Detroit) and Liz Gerber (Washtenaw) and MDOT employee Shanelle Jackson, who serves as the RTA’s Director of Outreach & Strategic Relations, wrapped up the CAC member selection process in August.
“We’re excited,” Jackson said. “The goal of the board members is to make sure that we have an active thriving Citizens Advisory Committee. They’re looking forward to the group beginning its part.”
Under the authority of Michigan’s Public Act 387, the CAC can make reports and recommendations at RTA board meetings. Specifically, it’s empowered to: review and comment on the region’s comprehensive regional public transit service plan and annual updates; advise the board regarding the coordination of functions between different owners and operators of public transportation facilities; review and comment on a specialized services coordination plan; and upon the request of the board, provide recommendations on other matters concerning public transportation.
